From First Signs to Full Restoration—Your Step-by-Step Guide
A water leak can start small—but if left unchecked, it can lead to serious damage and costly repairs. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a leaking appliance, or water seeping through your roof, knowing what to expect in the restoration process can ease a lot of the stress and uncertainty.
At Standard Restoration, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners navigate water damage from the moment they discover the problem to the final step of putting everything back together. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens after a water leak—and how a professional restoration company can make all the difference.
Step 1: Stop the Water and Protect Your Safety
The first priority is always to stop the source of the leak and make the area safe.
- Shut off the main water valve to your home
- If water is near electrical outlets, switch off the power to that area
- Avoid walking through standing water—there could be hidden hazards
- Call a licensed plumber if you need help identifying or fixing the source
Once the water is under control, call a restoration company immediately. Water damage spreads quickly, and the sooner we respond, the better the outcome.
At Standard Restoration, we offer 24/7 emergency response because minutes matter when your home is on the line.
Step 2: Detailed Inspection & Moisture Mapping
Once we arrive, our certified technicians begin a thorough inspection to assess the damage—both visible and hidden.
- We use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to locate moisture inside walls, floors, and ceilings
- We evaluate materials like drywall, insulation, baseboards, and flooring for damage or saturation
- We look for early signs of mold or microbial growth
This critical step ensures no hidden moisture is missed, which helps prevent future mold problems and structural deterioration.
Step 3: Water Extraction & Initial Cleanup
If there’s standing water in your home, our team gets to work right away.
- High-powered pumps and vacuums remove water quickly
- Damaged contents (furniture, rugs, etc.) are evaluated for cleaning or removal
- Unsalvageable materials like carpet padding, drywall, or insulation may be removed
By removing water and affected materials promptly, we reduce the risk of mold and help the drying process begin immediately.
Step 4: Drying & Dehumidification
After extraction, we focus on one of the most important parts of the process: drying your home thoroughly.
- We place commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers throughout the affected area
- Equipment placement is based on calculations to ensure optimal airflow
- We monitor moisture levels daily and make adjustments as needed
Depending on the severity of the damage, this phase can take 3 to 5 days on average.
Standard Restoration ensures your home is completely dry before moving forward—because incomplete drying can lead to long-term problems.
Step 5: Environmental Safety & Mold Prevention
In certain situations, additional safety precautions are needed—especially if your home is older or the leak went unnoticed for several days.
- Antimicrobial treatments are applied to prevent mold and bacteria
- In homes built before the mid-1980s, asbestos or lead paint testing may be required before demolition
- If mold is discovered, a separate remediation process may be needed
Our team ensures that every step meets safety standards and complies with local regulations—so your family stays protected.
Step 6: Insurance Documentation & Communication
Water damage restoration often involves filing a claim with your insurance provider. We help make that process easier.
- We document the full scope of damage with photos, moisture readings, and logs
- A detailed scope of work is created and submitted
- If additional damage is discovered during demolition, we file supplements on your behalf
At Standard Restoration, we work directly with your insurance adjuster—but we always keep your needs and best interest in focus.
Step 7: Repair & Rebuild
Once the structure is dry and safe, it’s time to put everything back together.
- Drywall, insulation, and flooring are replaced as needed
- Walls are repainted and textures matched
- Trim, cabinetry, and finishes are restored or upgraded
- Optional upgrades can be quoted if you’d like to improve the space
Whether it’s a simple repair or a full rebuild, Standard Restoration offers seamless service from mitigation to final touches.
Why Choose Standard Restoration?
When your home is damaged by water, choosing the right restoration company makes all the difference. At Standard Restoration, we bring:
✔ 24/7 Emergency Response
We’re available day or night to help you prevent further damage and start the cleanup immediately.
✔ One-Stop Service
From inspection to drying to reconstruction—we handle every phase in-house, so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors.
✔ Certified Professionals
Our technicians are IICRC-certified and trained to handle all types of water damage with skill and care.
✔ Clear Communication
We walk you through the process, keep you updated, and ensure you feel supported at every stage.
✔ Local Commitment
We live and work in the communities we serve, and we treat your home like our own.
What to Do if You Have a Water Leak Right Now
- Stop the water source if possible
- Shut off electricity near affected areas
- Call a trusted plumber and then contact Standard Restoration for professional water damage response
- Document damage with photos, but avoid re-entering unsafe areas
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Face Water Damage Alone
A water leak can feel overwhelming—but with the right team, you can recover quickly and confidently. At Standard Restoration, we’re here to guide you through every step: inspection, drying, insurance documentation, and rebuilding your home.
If you’re dealing with water damage, reach out to our team today. We’re ready to respond, restore, and help you move forward.
📞 Need Help Now?
Contact Standard Restoration 24/7 for expert water damage response and restoration. We’re here when you need us most.
