The short answer
First Steps After Water Damage
Your first move is to shut off the water supply to the shop, whether that means closing a valve or calling a plumber. If the water is from a leaky roof, move inventory and fixtures away from the drips. Turn off electricity in wet areas to avoid hazards, but only if you can do so safely.
Next, document everything. Take photos and videos of the water, the damaged stock, and the affected building areas. This record helps your insurance company understand the situation. Move salvageable items like clothing, paper goods, or packaged products to a dry part of the shop or off-site.
Protect Your Inventory and Equipment
Prioritize items that water damages fastest: cardboard boxes, fabrics, and electronics. For electronics, unplug them and let them dry completely before attempting to turn them on. Do not power up wet devices, as this can cause further harm. For artwork or antiques, move them to a climate-stable area if possible.
If you have shelving, remove lower shelves first to prevent water from wicking upward. Use plastic sheeting or tarps to cover items you cannot move. The pros can later assess which items might be salvageable, but your quick action reduces the total loss.
- Turn off power to the affected zone at the breaker
- Move electronics to a dry, elevated spot
- Separate soaked items from dry inventory
- Keep a written list of damaged goods
- Use fans or dehumidifiers only after power is safe
Work with Local Water Damage Pros
The pros handle commercial spaces like shops regularly. They bring industrial drying equipment, moisture meters, and experience with retail environments. When you call them, describe the size of your shop and the type of water involved, whether clean, gray, or black water.
The pros will assess the extent of the damage and outline the restoration steps. They may need to remove wet drywall, carpet, or ceiling tiles. Ask them about the drying timeline and what you can do in the meantime. Keep their contact information handy for your insurance records.
Coordinate with Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the water damage. Provide them with your documentation, including photos and an inventory list. Ask about coverage for business interruption, which might help with lost income during closure. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Keep a log of all communication with your insurer, including dates and names of representatives. If you need to hire the pros before approval, confirm whether your policy reimburses for emergency mitigation. Some policies require you to mitigate further damage, so acting quickly is important.
- Photograph all damage before moving anything
- Save receipts for emergency purchases like tarps
- Ask about business interruption coverage
- Request a written summary of your claim
- Notify your insurer within the time your policy specifies
Plan for Reopening Your Shop
While restoration is underway, think about how to reopen efficiently. Check with your local building department about permits for repairs. If your shop sells food or beverages, a health inspector may need to clear the space before you serve customers again.
Communicate honestly with your customers about the closure. Post a sign on the door and update your social media. If you can, offer online orders or curbside pickup from a temporary location. If you live in Redmond, keep your shutoff valve location written down for future emergencies.
Water damage does not wait
Call (425) 407-5186 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
How long will my shop be closed?
The closure depends on the water source, the size of your space, and how quickly drying starts. Minor spills might take a few days, while major flooding could take weeks. The pros can give you a realistic timeline after they assess the damage.
Can I save wet merchandise?
Some items can be saved if you act fast. Non-porous goods like glass or plastic can be cleaned. Paper products and fabrics often cannot be salvaged once wet. Electronics may survive if dried thoroughly, but do not turn them on until a professional checks them.
Should I throw away water-damaged items?
Do not discard anything until your insurance adjuster has seen it. Wet items can be photographed and then moved to a separate area. Porous materials like drywall and insulation usually need removal, but keep samples for your claim if possible.