How to Manage a Minor Indoor Flood

If you’ve ever had an overflowing sink, a leaking dishwasher or a burst pipe, you know it can quickly lead to bigger problems if it’s not handled properly. The key to preventing water damage and mold growth is to act fast. Here are a few places to start:

Stop the water source and start drying immediately. Use fans to circulate air over wet surfaces, and if possible, rent a dehumidifier from a local hardware store to speed up moisture removal. Acting within the first 24 to 48 hours is critical—mold can form if the water sits beyond that time, and using a fan at that point could spread spores and worsen the damage.

Use caution with carpeted areas. If the water has soaked into your carpet, you’ll need to go a step further. Lift the carpet from the tack strips and remove the padding underneath—it’s difficult to dry and can hold moisture that leads to mold. Once the padding is out, fold the carpet back over itself and aim fans to dry both the subfloor and the carpet backing. After the area is fully dry, you can lay the carpet back down and continue drying the top surface to ensure no moisture remains trapped.

Know when to call a professional. If you’re not making progress with your drying efforts or the water has been sitting for more than 48 hours, it’s time to call a water damage restoration specialist. They have the equipment and expertise to handle deeper moisture issues and prevent long-term damage like mold growth and structural weakening.