7 Critical Steps for Emergency Water Damage Cleanup in Dexter

Water damage can strike when you least expect it — a burst pipe, a flooded basement, or even a heavy Michigan storm. If you live in Dexter, acting fast after water damage isn’t just important; it’s critical. Without immediate action, standing water can cause structural issues, promote mold growth, and destroy personal belongings within hours.

At PuroClean of Ann Arbor, we specialize in emergency water damage cleanup in Dexter and nearby communities. Here are seven critical steps you should take right after discovering water damage.

1. Put Safety First

Before stepping into any flooded area, make sure it’s safe. Water and electricity don’t mix — so turn off your home’s power if you can safely do so. Avoid walking through standing water until you’re certain there are no electrical hazards or structural risks.

If there’s a chance the water came from sewage backup or floodwater, it may contain harmful bacteria. Wear waterproof boots, gloves, and a mask if you must enter the space. When in doubt, wait for professionals to arrive.

Tip: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends leaving emergency water damage cleanup to trained professionals when contamination or structural risk is suspected.
👉 Learn more about flood safety from FEMA.

2. Stop the Source of Water

Once safety is secured, the next step is to stop the source of water intrusion.

• If it’s a burst pipe, shut off the main water valve immediately.
• If it’s rain or stormwater, cover leaks with tarps or plastic sheeting.
• For appliance leaks, unplug or disconnect the affected unit.

The sooner you stop the flow, the less damage you’ll face.

3. Document the Damage

Before you start moving or removing anything, take photos and videos of all affected areas. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and helps you track the progress of restoration.

Capture wide shots of each room, then close-ups of damaged flooring, furniture, or electronics. Keep a record of dates and estimated times the damage occurred.

If you work with PuroClean of Ann Arbor, ( emergency water damage cleanup) our technicians can assist you in documenting everything properly for your insurance company.

4. Remove Standing Water Quickly

Time is your biggest enemy when dealing with water damage. Within 24–48 hours, moisture can lead to mold growth and weaken wood, drywall, and insulation.

Use wet/dry vacuums or pumps to extract as much water as possible — but remember, home equipment often isn’t enough for deeper flooding. Professional extraction tools can remove water from hidden spaces beneath floors and inside walls.

PuroClean uses advanced extraction and drying technology to ensure every trace of moisture is removed, reducing the risk of secondary damage.

5. Dry and Dehumidify the Area

Even after water is removed, dampness lingers in the air and materials. That’s why professional drying is essential. Industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers work together to pull moisture from the environment and building materials.

This stage can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the extent of the damage. During this time, our team monitors humidity levels and ensures that everything — from flooring to wall studs — is completely dry before moving forward.

6. Clean, Sanitize, and Prevent Mold

After the area is dry, it’s time to clean and disinfect everything touched by water. This prevents mold, bacteria, and unpleasant odors from taking hold.

All porous materials — like carpet, drywall, and insulation — may need to be removed if they were heavily soaked. Hard surfaces can be disinfected with professional-grade antimicrobial solutions.

Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours, especially in humid spaces like basements and crawl spaces. For this reason, professional cleanup ensures your home remains safe and healthy long after the water is gone.

For more about preventing mold, check out the EPA’s guide on mold cleanup:
👉 EPA Mold Cleanup Guide.

7. Restore and Rebuild Your Property

Once everything is clean and dry, the final step is restoration. Depending on the extent of water damage, this might include:

• Replacing flooring or drywall
• Repainting walls
• Repairing cabinetry
• Restoring structural materials

The goal is to bring your property back to pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently. At PuroClean of Ann Arbor, our experts handle every phase of the process — from extraction and drying to full restoration — so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors. Your No 1. emergency water damage cleanup

Why Choose PuroClean for Emergency Water Damage Cleanup in Dexter?

PuroClean of Ann Arbor is locally owned, serving Dexter and surrounding Washtenaw County communities. We respond 24/7 to water emergencies, ensuring fast action and expert care.

Our certified technicians use industry-leading technology to remove water, prevent mold, and restore your property safely. Whether your issue is a flooded basement, storm damage, or plumbing failure, we’re here to help — any time, day or night.

👉 Learn more about our Water Damage Restoration Services
👉 Call PuroClean of Ann Arbor at (734) 477-9900 for immediate help with emergency water damage cleanup in Dexter.

Final Thoughts

Emergency water damage can feel overwhelming, but knowing the right steps — and who to call — makes all the difference. With fast action, thorough drying, and professional help, your home can be restored safely and efficiently.

Don’t wait. The sooner you act, the less damage you’ll face.
PuroClean of Ann Arbor is here 24/7 to help homeowners in Dexter recover quickly after water emergencies.