Water damage can quickly spiral into a disaster. In many cases, it's a high-stress emergency where water is pouring into your property. If you're facing this, it's important to take calm, smart steps to protect yourself and your property. Here's what we recommend:

Step 1: Locate The Source & Turn Off Your Water

If the water is still actively flowing, find your main water shutoff valve and turn it off immediately—only if it's safe to access. This is the first line of defense against ongoing damage.

Step 2: Turn Off Your Power

Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Even if you think the water isn't near electrical outlets or appliances, it's safest to cut the power to affected areas. At DRYCOR RESTORE, we always emphasize safety first.

Step 3: Call A Reputable Water Damage Company

The next call should be to a trusted restoration provider like DRYCOR RESTORE of Tampa. We're on call 24/7 and can dispatch certified technicians immediately. We'll stop the source, remove water, begin drying, and handle everything from structural drying to insurance coordination.

Step 4: Remove Any Valuables (If Possible)

If there's no electrical risk or sewage present, remove items like electronics, documents, and keepsakes from the area. But never put yourself at risk—if unsure, wait for professionals to arrive.

Knowing when water damage is covered by insurance can make a big difference in your recovery process. Here's what you need to know:

Homeowner's insurance will cover water damage if:

• Sudden & Accidental: Burst pipes, ruptured hoses, or water heater leaks are typically covered.
• Storm Damage: Water intrusion caused by wind, hail, or frozen plumbing due to storms.
• Vandalism: Intentional acts, like someone flooding your home, are generally covered.
• Fire Extinguishing: Water damage from firefighting efforts is typically included.

Homeowner's insurance will not cover water damage if:

• Property Neglect or Poor Maintenance: Long-term leaks or wear-and-tear issues are not covered.
• Floods: Natural floods require a separate flood insurance policy.
• Sewer Backups: Unless you have an added sewer backup rider, this is usually excluded.
• Ground Seepage: Water entering from soil or underground sources is often not covered.

Hiring a certified, experienced restoration company is essential when water damage strikes. At DRYCOR RESTORE of Tampa, we follow a meticulous and effective process to restore your property safely and thoroughly.

1. Assessment and Inspection: We're available 24/7 and will get to your property fast. Our technicians assess the damage, identify the source, and develop a custom mitigation plan.
2. Water Extraction: Using powerful pumps and vacuums, we remove all standing water quickly to prevent further saturation.
3. Drying and Dehumidification: High-powered air movers and dehumidifiers are strategically placed to dry out hidden moisture, preventing mold growth.
4. Cleaning and Sanitizing: We disinfect affected surfaces to remove contaminants and odors, creating a safe and hygienic environment.
5. Repairs and Restoration: From drywall to flooring, we repair structural damage and restore the affected areas to their pre-loss condition.
6. Final Inspection: We complete a thorough inspection to confirm that all moisture and damage have been addressed.
7. Documentation and Communication: We provide comprehensive documentation and readings for insurance purposes, and we stay in direct contact with your insurance provider throughout.

Not all water damage is the same—some types can be extremely dangerous to your health. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) identifies three categories of water damage:

Category 1: Clean or "Sanitary" Water Damage

Water comes from a clean source, such as sink overflows or broken supply lines. It's safe at first, but if not handled quickly, it can degrade into a more hazardous category.

Category 2: Grey Water

This water is slightly contaminated and may cause discomfort or illness. It can come from appliances or minor toilet overflows. Quick cleanup is essential.

Category 3: Black Water

Highly dangerous, black water includes sewage, floodwater, or standing water with microbial growth. It contains bacteria, toxins, and pathogens, and requires professional cleanup.

Avoid all contact if you suspect grey or black water damage. Choose an experienced team like DRYCOR RESTORE, which can safely and effectively handle all types.

At DRYCOR RESTORE of Tampa, we offer full-service water damage restoration for both residential and commercial clients. No job is too big or too small. Our certified professionals have the equipment and experience to handle any water emergency.

Our services include:

• Water damage restoration
• Water extraction
• Water mitigation
• Sewage cleanup
• Thermal inspection
• Structural drying & Dehumidification
• Flood damage cleanup
• 24/7 emergency water damage restoration

When you're facing a water disaster, DRYCOR RESTORE of Tampa is the name to trust. With over 20 years of experience, free damage inspections, and a team of certified technicians, we've earned our reputation as the leading restoration provider in Tampa and the surrounding areas. We're equipped to handle everything from minor leaks to major commercial floods—responding 24/7 with the tools, equipment, and expertise to get your life back to normal fast. Call us now!