Emergency
Water damage: the first hour
What you do in the first hour decides whether this is drying or demolition. Stop the water, kill the power to the area, document, then dry.
Intermediate About 60 minWhole homePro required
Video: Matt Risinger / Build Show (YouTube) — hand-picked by Xiane and matched to the written steps below.
Never enter standing water that may be in contact with electricity. Sewage-contaminated water is a health hazard and requires professional remediation.
Steps
Tools
- Fans
- Dehumidifier
- Wet vacuum
- Phone camera
Parts
- No parts required.
Published February 10, 2026 · Last reviewed September 1, 2026 · Next review March 1, 2027 · Source: Video: Matt Risinger / Build Show (YouTube)