Essential Steps for Handling Water Damage from an Appliance Leak

Nov 13

3 min read

A picture of a refrigerator leaking heavily

Water damage from a leaking appliance can escalate quickly, causing extensive issues if not handled promptly and thoroughly. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you address the situation effectively, along with guidance on handling insurance considerations.

A picture of someone shutting off a main water valve

1. Shut Off the Water Supply Immediately

Upon noticing a leak, the first step is to turn off the water supply to prevent further water from escaping. Locate the valve connected to the leaking appliance, typically found behind or near it, and shut it off. If the leak is severe and you can't find the specific valve, turn off your main water supply to halt all water flow in the home.

2. Disconnect Power to the Appliance

For safety, unplug the leaking appliance or turn off the relevant circuit breaker to cut the electricity. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and powering down the appliance minimizes risks like electrical shock or further damage to the appliance itself.

3. Remove Standing Water

Next, remove as much standing water as possible to prevent it from seeping into floors and walls. Use towels, a wet-dry vacuum, or even a mop to soak up visible water. Be mindful of areas where water might accumulate, like under baseboards, cabinets, or in corners. This step is critical to reduce the risk of long-term structural damage and inhibit mold growth.

4. Thoroughly Dry the Area

Once standing water is cleared, focus on drying the area thoroughly. Set up fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and remove residual moisture, especially in small or confined spaces. Opening windows can also help ventilate the area. Complete drying can take days, depending on the extent of the water exposure, so keep equipment running until you’re certain everything is dry.

5. Inspect for Signs of Mold

Even after drying, water-damaged areas can become breeding grounds for mold. Check for visible signs, such as dark spots or musty smells, particularly around cabinetry, floors, and walls near the leak. Mold can start developing within 24 to 48 hours, so consider bringing in a professional to assess for hidden mold if the leak was substantial.

6. Document All Damage

Documentation is crucial if you decide to pursue an insurance claim. Take clear, detailed photos and videos of the affected areas and any damaged belongings. Make an inventory of all items damaged by the leak, including appliances, flooring, cabinetry, and structural elements. This documentation will be vital if you proceed with a claim, helping to establish proof of loss.

a picture of person calling a insurance agent

Before Filing an Insurance Claim: Consult with Your Insurance Agent

While the instinct may be to file a claim immediately, speaking with your insurance agent first is often a better approach. Filing a claim is a significant decision, as claims can impact your premiums or even your policy renewal in the future. Here's how an agent can help:

Claim Viability: Your agent can review your policy and assess whether the extent of the damage justifies a claim. For minor leaks or manageable repairs, covering the cost out-of-pocket may be more beneficial in the long run.
Guidance on Deductibles: Your agent can help you evaluate if the repair costs exceed your deductible enough to make a claim financially worthwhile.
Avoiding Potential Rate Increases: Filing frequent or minor claims can raise your premiums, and your agent can explain the potential impacts on your policy.

An experienced agent will provide valuable insights and guide you through the process, potentially advising you on other steps to mitigate further damage.

A image of a remolded kitchen with smaller pictures showing the restoration process of Clean Way Restoration

How Clean Way Restoration Can Assist

When you’re facing water damage from an appliance leak, Clean Way Restoration is here to handle all aspects of the restoration process:

Professional Water Extraction: We ensure fast, thorough water removal to prevent further damage and stop mold from forming.
Comprehensive Drying and Dehumidification: We use industrial-grade fans and dehumidifiers to dry affected areas, eliminating hidden moisture that can cause structural damage.
Mold Prevention and Remediation: If mold has begun to develop, our experts will handle removal and remediation safely and effectively.
Restoration: Repair, restore, and remodel to its original state or even better. We are a one-stop stop shop.
Detailed Damage Documentation: For those pursuing a claim, we assist with thorough documentation of the damage, providing detailed reports trusted by insurance companies.