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Belle Isle Dry-Out ProsWater Damage Help · Detroit, MI

How Do You Handle Restoration of a Flooded Convention Center?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Start with Safety

Before any cleanup begins, make sure the building is safe to enter. Floodwater can hide electrical hazards, sharp debris, and contaminants. Turn off power at the main breaker if you can do so without stepping into water. Wear boots, gloves, and a mask if you go inside.

If the water came from a sewer or a river, treat it as contaminated. Do not let anyone touch it without protective gear. See a doctor if you feel unwell after being in the building. Your first priority is the health of everyone who uses the space.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of every affected area before you move anything. Note the water level on walls and the condition of flooring, furniture, and equipment. This record helps your insurance company understand what happened. Keep receipts for any supplies you buy for temporary fixes.

Write down the date and time the flooding started and how long the water stood. That information matters for deciding what can be saved. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what documentation they expect from you.

Dry Out the Building

Water removal is the first step in restoration. Local water damage pros use pumps and wet vacuums to pull standing water out of the building. After that, they set up industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry walls, floors, and ceilings. Drying can take days or weeks, depending on how deep the water was.

The longer materials stay wet, the more likely they are to warp or grow mold. In a humid climate like Detroit's, drying needs to happen fast. You may want to open windows if the outdoor air is drier than inside. But do not run the HVAC system until a professional checks it for water damage.

Sort and Salvage

Some items can be saved, and some cannot. Porous things like carpet, drywall, and insulation usually need to be removed and replaced. Hard surfaces like concrete, metal, and glass can often be cleaned and disinfected. Electronics and artwork may be restorable if they get attention quickly.

Make a list of what you think is worth saving. For electronics, do not turn them on until they are dry and checked. For artwork, keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The pros can help you decide what is worth the effort.

  • Remove soaked carpet and padding
  • Cut away wet drywall at least 12 inches above the water line
  • Discard mattresses, upholstered furniture, and pillows
  • Rinse and disinfect hard surfaces
  • Air out documents and books carefully

Prevent Mold and Rebuild

Mold can start growing within a day or two after flooding. To prevent it, you need to dry the building completely and keep humidity low. The pros use moisture meters to check walls and floors. They may also apply antimicrobial treatments to surfaces that cannot be removed.

Once everything is dry, the rebuilding begins. This can involve replacing drywall, flooring, and electrical systems. You might need to work with a plumber or electrician for certain repairs. The pros coordinate the restoration, but you stay in control of decisions about materials and layout.

  • Keep indoor humidity below 50 percent
  • Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Check for hidden moisture in wall cavities
  • Replace insulation that got wet
  • Seal concrete floors to prevent moisture from rising

Need help right now?

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to dry out a flooded convention center?

Drying can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the building and how much water entered. The pros use industrial equipment to speed it up. You can help by keeping doors open and running fans if it is safe.

Can electronics be saved after a flood?

Sometimes. Electronics that were not submerged for long may be restorable if they are dried and cleaned properly. Do not turn them on until a professional inspects them. The pros can use special drying methods to reduce corrosion, but it is not always possible.

What should I do with wet paperwork and documents?

Handle wet paper gently to avoid tearing. Freeze documents if you cannot dry them right away. Lay flat on absorbent paper and air dry slowly. For important records, consider contacting a document restoration service. Do not use heat or direct sunlight, as that can damage the ink.

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