The 2 A.M. Guide
RestoreWise™ field guide
Emergency water loss:
what to do at 2:00 a.m.
If water is actively entering your home, your first goal is not comparing contractors. Your first goal is preventing additional damage — water damage gets worse by the hour. This applies whether the loss strikes a shed or a massive property.
First things first: stop the damage
- ✓Shut off the water source.
- ✓Shut off electricity to affected areas if it can be done safely.
- ✓Protect people, pets, and valuables.
- ✓Move contents away from standing water.
- ✓Remove standing water and contaminated materials.
- ✓Begin documenting the damage with photos and video.
Call your insurance company
When you call, ask:
- ✓Is this type of loss potentially covered?
- ✓What claim number should I reference?
- ✓Do you recommend any emergency mitigation vendors?
- ✓What documentation should I keep?
A recommended contractor is not always a required contractor. Understand your options before making long-term reconstruction decisions.
Do I have to sign the first contract?
Sometimes emergency work must begin immediately. Before signing anything, ask:
- ✓Is this authorization only for mitigation — water extraction, drying equipment, demolition of wet materials, emergency stabilization?
- ✓Does this contract include reconstruction? Many homeowners do not realize these may be separate services.
- ✓Who will be communicating with the insurance company?
Always request copies of everything you sign.
Build your claim file
Create a claim file immediately. The homeowner who keeps the best records usually makes better decisions later. Keep copies of:
- ✓Photos and videos
- ✓Contracts and work authorizations
- ✓Equipment logs and drying records
- ✓Emails and text messages
- ✓Insurance correspondence
- ✓Receipts
The most important rule
Stop the damage first. Decide the future second.
At 2:00 a.m. you may need immediate mitigation. That does not mean every future decision must be made at 2:00 a.m. Once the property is stabilized, take the time to understand your options, your contracts, your claim, and the path forward.
Homeowner First™
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