What Should I Do If I Find Water Damage After Moving Into a New Home?

Shut off the main water valve if you can find it. If you are unsure where the valve is, look near the water meter or where the pipe enters the house. In a new home, the previous owner may have left a note or diagram. If the leak is from a specific appliance, turn off its supply valve.

Once the water is off, check for visible leaks from pipes, fixtures, or the roof. If the source is not obvious, a plumber can help locate it. For roof leaks, a roofer may need to inspect the shingles or flashing. Do not delay, as standing water can soak into walls and floors quickly.

Set up fans and a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air. Open windows if the weather is dry, but if you live in a humid climate, keep them closed to avoid drawing in more moisture. Move wet rugs and furniture to a dry area if possible. Remove soaked drywall or insulation only if it is safe to do so.

Wear gloves and a mask when handling wet materials, as they may contain mold or bacteria. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. For large areas of water, a water damage inspection can help you understand the full scope. The inspection will identify hidden moisture in walls and under floors.

Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water.

Lift carpet edges to let air circulate underneath.

Remove wet cardboard boxes and paper products.

Wipe down metal surfaces to prevent rust.

Check baseboards and door frames for swelling.

Run a dehumidifier for several days until the area is dry.

After the area is dry, you can assess what repairs are needed. Small stains may be cleaned with a stain remover, but larger damage may require replacing drywall or flooring. If you are handy, you might do some repairs yourself, but for extensive damage, the pros can handle the job.

The pros can also help with specific areas like ceilings, carpets, or crawlspaces. You may want to schedule a water damage inspection to get a full picture. The cost of repairs depends on the extent of the damage, the materials involved, and the labor required. Always get a clear plan before starting work.

If you live in Detroit, keep your shutoff valve location written down for future reference.