Published · By Elite Restoration Services of Iowa
Minutes 0-5: Stop the water
Find your main shutoff. In most Iowa homes it's in the basement where the water line enters through the foundation, often near the water meter. Turn it clockwise until it stops. If the leak is at a single fixture, that fixture's valve may be enough. If you can't find the main, your city water utility can help, but keep looking while you call.
Minutes 5-10: Make it safe
Water and electricity don't mix. If water is near outlets, cords, appliances or the panel, stay out of it. Shut off power at the breaker only if you can reach the panel standing somewhere dry. If the ceiling is sagging with water, stay out from under it.
Minutes 10-20: Document everything
Before you move anything, take photos and video: the broken pipe, where the water is, the ceiling, the walls, the flooring and damaged belongings. Insurance adjusters generally want to see the damage as it was found.
Minutes 20-30: Protect what matters
Move electronics, papers, photos and rugs to a dry area. Put aluminum foil or plastic under furniture legs sitting on wet carpet. Open interior doors to let air move.
Minutes 30-45: Call for help
- A plumber, to repair the pipe.
- A water damage restoration company, to find and dry the hidden water. Elite Restoration answers 24/7 at 515-216-4293.
- Your insurance company or agent, to start a claim if you plan to file one.
Minutes 45-60: Don't do these
- Don't use a household vacuum on water.
- Don't turn on ceiling lights or fans in a room with a wet ceiling.
- Don't throw out damaged items before they're photographed and your adjuster says it's OK.
- Don't assume it's dry because the surface feels dry. Water wicks into drywall, pad and subfloor.
Why speed matters
The EPA notes mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours on wet materials. Getting water out and drying started early generally limits how much has to be removed.
What a restoration company does
A professional crew uses moisture meters to map where the water went, extracts standing water, removes materials that can't be dried, and runs air movers and dehumidifiers while checking moisture until materials are dry. The industry standard is the IICRC S500.
Elite Restoration Services of Iowa is an IICRC Certified Firm, and we have an IICRC Triple Master on staff. The on-site inspection is free, and you choose who does your repairs. See burst pipe water damage cleanup.