What to Do in the First 24–48 Hours After Water Damage

After water damage, mold is a race against the clock: it can begin growing on wet materials within 24 to 48 hours. What you do in those first two days largely decides whether you have a drying job or a mold job. Here's the priority order.

First: stop the water and stay safe

• Shut off the water source if it's a plumbing failure (know where your main shutoff is)
• If water is near electrical outlets or the panel, cut power to that area — or stay out until a pro can
• Never enter standing water that may be in contact with electricity
• Treat any sewage or flood water as contaminated — don't handle it yourself

Next: document everything (before you clean up)

Take clear photos and video of the damage and standing water before you start removing things. This is what supports an insurance claim — and whether the resulting mold is covered often hinges on documenting a sudden, accidental cause.

Then: get it dry, fast

• Remove standing water (wet-vac, pumps) as soon as it's safe
• Get air moving — fans, open windows if it's drier outside, and a dehumidifier
• Pull up soaked rugs and lift wet furniture off wet carpet
• Remove water-logged porous items that can't be dried quickly

When to call a professional immediately

Significant standing water, water that's been sitting more than a day, any sewage or flood water, or water that's reached walls, insulation, or the subfloor all warrant a call right away. Richmond-area pros offer 24/7 water-damage response — fast drying plus remediation of anything mold has already reached, in one coordinated visit.

Near the James River or one of Richmond's many creeks? Low-lying and river-adjacent homes face the highest risk after heavy rain — more on that in our Richmond mold season guide.