A Homeowner’s Emergency Guide to Water Damage in Colorado

dencocontractingin
Aug 15
4 min read

Updated: Sep 29

When water invades your home, every second counts. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, a heavy summer storm, a leaking water heater, or a backed-up drain, water damage can escalate quickly. It threatens your home’s structure, your belongings, and your health.

The first 24 hours after water damage are the most critical. The actions you take during this window will determine how much damage you can prevent, how smoothly your insurance claim goes, and how fast you can get your home back to normal.

As a Colorado water damage restoration expert, Denco Contracting & Restoration has helped countless homeowners navigate these stressful situations. Here’s your step-by-step emergency action plan.

Why Acting Fast Matters After Water Damage

Water isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a force that can cause structural damage, create dangerous electrical hazards, and lead to mold growth in as little as 24 to 48 hours. If left unchecked, you could face:

Warped floors and walls
Weakened structural framing
Electrical shorts or fires
Health risks from mold and bacteria
Costly repairs that could have been prevented

By acting quickly, you protect your investment, reduce health risks, and make the restoration process smoother.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety First

Before you rush to save belongings, make sure your home is safe to enter.

Turn Off Electricity

If water is pooling near outlets, appliances, or electrical panels, shut off power to the affected areas at your breaker box. Standing water and electricity are a deadly combination.

Check for Gas Leaks

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave your home immediately and contact your gas company.

Wear Protective Gear

Floodwater can be contaminated. Wear waterproof boots, gloves, and even a mask to protect yourself from bacteria, chemicals, or mold spores.

Step 2: Stop the Source of Water

Find the source and stop it if possible.

Burst pipe? Shut off your home’s main water valve.
Leaking appliance? Unplug and disconnect it.
Roof leak? Use tarps or buckets to temporarily contain the water until a professional arrives.
Stormwater intrusion? Block further entry points if safe to do so.

The quicker you stop the water, the less damage it will cause.

Step 3: Document Everything for Insurance

Your insurance company will need proof of the damage to process your claim.

Take photos and videos from multiple angles before moving anything.
Document water lines, damaged belongings, and affected structural areas.
Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or supplies.

Pro Tip: Many homeowners miss out on coverage because they can’t prove the extent of damage. A complete visual record is your best protection.

Step 4: Contact a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company

Time is not on your side. The best thing you can do is call a licensed water damage restoration contractor immediately. A professional will:

Assess the damage with moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden water.
Begin water extraction using high-powered pumps and vacuums.
Set up industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry out your home.
Sanitize and prevent mold growth.
Provide documentation for your insurance claim.

In Colorado, Denco Contracting & Restoration is on call to respond quickly to emergencies, helping homeowners minimize damage and stress.

Step 5: Remove Water and Start Drying

If you’re waiting for professionals to arrive, you can start mitigation efforts safely:

Mop or use a wet/dry vacuum to remove small amounts of standing water.
Move furniture and valuables to a dry area.
Use fans to improve airflow (but avoid plugging them into wet outlets).
Open windows if the weather is dry to help moisture escape.

Step 6: Protect Your Belongings

Water can ruin furniture, electronics, and sentimental items if not addressed quickly.

Remove rugs and hang them to dry.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent staining and water absorption.
Store wet documents, photos, or books in the freezer until you can properly dry and restore them.

Step 7: Watch for Mold from Day One

Mold prevention starts immediately. Because mold thrives in damp environments, it can begin forming within 24 to 48 hours. Signs of early mold growth include:

Musty odors
Discoloration on walls or ceilings
Warping or bubbling paint

Professional mold remediation may be necessary to ensure your home is safe.

Step 8: Work With Your Insurance Company

File your claim as soon as possible. The more quickly you act, the sooner your adjuster can assess the situation.

Provide your documentation and photos.
Keep a record of all communication.
Work with your restoration contractor to provide detailed repair estimates.

How Denco Contracting & Restoration Can Help

We’re not just contractors — we’re your home restoration allies. As a family-owned Colorado business, we understand the urgency of water damage situations. We bring fast response times, proven restoration methods, and compassionate service. We handle:

Water damage restoration
Mold remediation
Storm damage repairs
Odor removal
Full home remodeling after restoration

Our goal? To restore your home quickly, safely, and better than before.

Preventing Future Water Damage

Once your home is restored, take steps to protect it against future incidents.

Install water leak detectors.
Keep gutters clear and downspouts pointed away from your home.
Regularly inspect your roof, plumbing, and appliances.
Slope landscaping away from your foundation.

A little maintenance now can save you thousands later.

Conclusion

The first 24 hours after water damage can make or break your restoration outcome. By prioritizing safety, documenting everything, and calling in professionals right away, you can protect your home, health, and wallet.

If you’re facing water damage in Colorado, don’t wait — call Denco Contracting & Restoration for immediate help. We’ll bring expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind to even the most stressful situations.

We are always ready to help.

Invest in disaster preparedness today to safeguard your property for tomorrow's uncertainties in Colorado's dynamic weather conditions. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive property inspection and take proactive steps towards protecting your investment.