Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

While waiting for our restoration experts at SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville to help make water damage "Like it never even happened," here are some steps you can take: 

  • File a claim with your insurance provider. 
  • Take photos of the damage for documentation. 
  • Inspect your carpet, and if the backing of the carpet is starting to separate from the fibers, take photos and document the damage.  
  • You can then remove the affected area of carpet and store it in a garage or outside. SERVPRO can haul this away when our teams arrive.  
  • If possible, remove personal contents out of affected areas. 
  • Remove any real hardwood furniture that has been damaged. SERVPRO may be able to restore these items. 
  • Take photos of any laminate furniture that is delaminating because these items most likely cannot be salvaged. 
  • Before using any electrical outlets, carefully inspect them for water damage.   
  • If you own a dehumidifier, put it to work to begin drying out the space. 
  • Have fans up and running to further help with the drying process.

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (319) 338-8550

What To Do After Flooding

  • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
  • Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
  • Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
  • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  • Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

  • Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
  • Don't use television or other household appliances.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.