When disaster strikes your home, the first few moments are critical. Whether it’s a burst pipe, storm damage, or a basement filled with water, knowing what to do before emergency restoration experts arrive can make a huge difference in reducing damage and keeping your family safe. Acting fast and smart will help you minimize the risk, protect your property, and ensure a smoother restoration process.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential steps to take when you find yourself in an emergency situation — including exactly what to do if your basement is flooded and you’re wondering who to call for help.
Why Is It Important to Act Quickly Before Emergency Restoration Teams Arrive?
Time is your biggest enemy in any property damage situation. Water, fire, and mold spread quickly, and the longer you wait, the more costly the repairs can become. Acting immediately before the emergency restoration team gets to your home can:
- Reduce structural damage by preventing water or fire from spreading.
- Protect valuables from permanent loss.
- Prevent mold growth, which can start within 24 to 48 hours.
- Ensure safety for you and your family by avoiding dangerous areas.
Your goal is not to replace the work of professionals but to stabilize the situation until they arrive.
Basement flooded who to call?
If you walk into your home and discover water pooling in the basement, your first thought might be, “My basement is flooded — who do I call?” The answer depends on the source of the water:
- For Burst Pipes or Plumbing Leaks – Call a licensed plumber immediately to stop the water source. Then contact an emergency restoration company to handle water removal and drying.
- For Flooding from Heavy Rain or Storms – Call your insurance company to report the damage, then reach out to an emergency restoration service for water extraction and repair.
- For Sewer Backups – Call a professional restoration team with expertise in hazardous water cleanup. Avoid handling contaminated water yourself.
Having these numbers saved in your phone can save valuable minutes during a crisis.
How to Ensure Safety Before Emergency Restoration Teams Arrive?
Your safety should always be the top priority. Before the professionals come, take these safety precautions:
- Turn Off Electricity and Gas – If the affected area is wet, switch off electricity from the main breaker. Water and electricity are a deadly combination.
- Wear Protective Gear – Use gloves, waterproof boots, and masks to protect yourself from contaminants.
- Avoid Standing Water – Floodwater may hide sharp objects or be contaminated with bacteria.
- Evacuate if Necessary – If structural damage or severe flooding makes your home unsafe, leave immediately and wait for the emergency restoration experts.
Should You Try to Stop the Water or Damage Source Yourself?
If it’s safe, stopping the source of damage before help arrives can save your property from further harm. For example:
- Shut Off Main Water Valve – In case of burst pipes or leaks.
- Cover Roof Leaks with Tarps – To prevent more water from entering.
- Block Small Leaks Temporarily – Use towels or buckets to contain water until professionals arrive.
However, if the situation is dangerous — such as deep flooding, electrical hazards, or structural collapse — leave it to trained restoration technicians.
Can You Start Moving Items Before Emergency Restoration Professionals Arrive?
Yes, but with caution. Removing items from the affected area can prevent further damage:
- Move Furniture and Electronics – Place them in a dry location to prevent water damage.
- Remove Rugs and Fabrics – These can trap moisture and lead to mold.
- Pack Valuables Safely – Store important documents, jewelry, and irreplaceable items in waterproof containers.
Remember to document everything with photos for insurance purposes before moving items.
How Should You Document the Damage for Insurance?
One of the most important steps before emergency restoration crews arrive is recording the extent of the damage. This will help your insurance claim go more smoothly.
- Take Photos and Videos – Capture every affected area, including close-ups of damaged belongings.
- List Damaged Items – Write down descriptions and approximate values.
- Keep Receipts – Save any receipts for temporary repairs or emergency expenses.
Providing detailed evidence can help you get fair compensation from your insurance provider.
What Temporary Measures Can You Take to Reduce Damage?
Before the emergency restoration company arrives, there are a few temporary actions you can take to stabilize the situation:
- Ventilate the Area – Open windows and doors if weather permits to allow air circulation.
- Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum – Only if the flooding is minor and it’s safe to use electrical equipment.
- Lift Furniture Off the Floor – Use blocks or aluminum foil under legs to prevent water absorption.
- Apply Disinfectant – On surfaces exposed to floodwater to prevent bacterial growth.
These steps won’t solve the problem entirely, but they can prevent the damage from getting worse.
Why Is Calling a Professional Emergency Restoration Team Essential?
While quick action is important, professional help is crucial for a complete recovery. An emergency restoration company will have the tools, knowledge, and experience to:
- Remove water, smoke, or debris safely.
- Dry and dehumidify affected areas thoroughly.
- Detect hidden moisture or mold growth.
- Repair and restore damaged structures.
They also understand insurance procedures and can help you file claims efficiently.
How to Choose the Right Emergency Restoration Service?
When selecting an emergency restoration provider, look for:
- 24/7 Availability – Disasters can happen anytime.
- Certified Technicians – Ensure they have proper training for water, fire, and mold restoration.
- Positive Reviews – Check online feedback from previous customers.
- Fast Response Time – The quicker they arrive, the less damage occurs.
Having a trusted restoration company in your contact list ensures you’re never left scrambling during an emergency.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to do before emergency restoration professionals arrive can make the difference between manageable repairs and devastating losses. If your basement is flooded and you’re wondering who to call, start with your plumber or insurance company, then contact a certified restoration team.
Acting quickly — shutting off the water, protecting your belongings, documenting the damage, and ensuring safety — will save you time, money, and stress. While you can take some temporary measures, professional restoration is the key to a full recovery.
Disasters are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Stay prepared, stay safe, and know that help is just a phone call away.