Who do I call immediately after water damage in my home?
Who Do I Call Immediately After Water Damage in My Home?
Water damage is one of those emergencies where minutes matter. Whether it’s a burst pipe, an overflowing appliance, storm flooding, or a hidden leak that suddenly reveals itself, the decisions you make in the first hour can dramatically affect repair costs, health risks, and how quickly your home recovers.
Here’s exactly who to call—and in what order—after water damage occurs in your home.
First: A Professional Water Damage Restoration Company
Your first call should be to a certified water damage restoration company, not a contractor and not a cleaning service.
A professional restoration company can:
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Stop further damage from spreading
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Extract standing water immediately
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Begin structural drying before mold forms
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Document damage properly for insurance
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Protect floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings
For homeowners in New Jersey and the surrounding region, New Method Restoration provides 24/7 emergency response and specializes in rapid water mitigation for residential properties.
Time matters: mold can begin forming within 24–48 hours, and materials like drywall, hardwood, and insulation can be permanently damaged far sooner.
Second: Your Insurance Company (After Help Is On the Way)
Once a restoration team is dispatched, then contact your homeowners insurance provider.
Why not first?
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Insurance companies don’t stop water or dry structures
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Delays increase claim severity and repair costs
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Restoration professionals help document damage correctly from the start
A reputable restoration company will:
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Photograph and document affected areas
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Provide moisture readings and drying logs
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Work directly with your insurance adjuster
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Help prevent claim disputes caused by delayed action
Third (If Needed): A Licensed Plumber or Utility Provider
If the water source is active, such as:
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A burst or frozen pipe
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A broken water heater
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A leaking supply line
You may also need a plumber or to shut off your main water valve immediately.
However, restoration professionals can:
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Help locate the source of the water
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Advise whether a plumber is urgently required
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Prevent secondary damage while repairs are coordinated
If flooding is caused by storms or sewer backups, your restoration company should remain your primary point of contact.
Who You Should Not Call First
Calling the wrong service can cost you thousands in additional damage.
Avoid calling first:
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General contractors (they rebuild, they don’t mitigate)
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Handymen or cleaners
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Carpet cleaners without drying equipment
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Waiting on insurance approval before acting
Water damage requires mitigation before renovation.
What to Expect When the Restoration Team Arrives
A professional water damage response typically includes:
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Immediate water extraction
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Industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers
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Moisture detection behind walls and under floors
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Antimicrobial treatments when needed
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Continuous monitoring until your home is fully dry
This process protects your home’s structure and prevents hidden mold growth.
The Bottom Line
If your home experiences water damage:
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Call a professional water damage restoration company immediately
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Then notify your insurance provider
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Address plumbing or utility issues as needed
Fast action minimizes damage, protects your health, and reduces repair costs.
If you’re facing water damage right now, New Method Restoration is available 24/7 to respond, mitigate damage, and guide you through the entire recovery process.
Act fast—your home depends on it.
