Water damage is one of the most common – and costly – problems Minnesota homeowners face. Whether it’s from a burst pipe during a deep freeze, a leaky appliance, an ice dam, or storm-related flooding, water can spread quickly and cause structural damage, mold growth, and long-term problems if not handled properly.

If you experience water damage, acting fast is critical. This guide walks you through exactly what to do – and why calling a professional water damage restoration company in Minnesota like Kiser Construction can save you time, money, and stress.

Step 1 – Stay Safe First

Before you do anything, assess the situation carefully.

Do not enter standing water if:

  • Water is touching electrical outlets, cords, or appliances
  • You hear buzzing or see sparks
  • Your ceiling appears to be sagging
  • You smell gas or sewage

If it’s safe, turn off electricity to the affected area at your breaker panel. If you’re unsure, wait for professionals.

Your safety always comes first.

Step 2 – Stop the Source of Water

If the damage is plumbing-related:

  • Shut off your home’s main water valve immediately
  • Turn off leaking appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, water heater)

If the water is from weather (heavy rain, ice dams, or roof leaks):

  • Move belongings out of the way
  • Place buckets or tarps to limit further damage if safe to do so

Stopping the water source can prevent thousands of dollars in additional damage.

Step 3 – Call a Professional Minnesota Water Damage Restoration Company

This is one of the most important steps.

Water doesn’t just sit on the surface – it seeps into walls, flooring, cabinets, and insulation. If not dried properly, this trapped moisture can lead to mold growth within 24-48 hours.

At Kiser Construction, we provide 24/7 emergency water damage restoration in Minnesota, including:

  • Water extraction
  • Structural drying and dehumidification
  • Moisture detection behind walls and floors
  • Mold prevention and remediation
  • Repairs and reconstruction

Our team responds quickly to minimize damage and get your home back to normal.

Call us at 612-518-8852 anytime for emergencies

Step 4 – Protect Your Belongings

If it is safe to do so:

  • Move furniture, rugs, and valuables to a dry area
  • Lift items off wet floors
  • Place foil or plastic under furniture legs
  • Remove wet electronics, photos, and important documents

The faster you remove items from water, the better chance you have of saving them.

Step 5 – Document Everything for Insurance

Before throwing anything away, take photos and videos:

  • Wide shots of entire rooms
  • Close-ups of damaged walls, floors, and belongings
  • Photos of the water source (burst pipe, leak, roof damage, etc.)

Write down:

  • When the damage occurred
  • What caused it (if known)
  • What actions you took

Keep receipts for fans, supplies, hotel stays, or repairs. This documentation is extremely helpful for insurance claims.

Step 6 – Remove Standing Water (If Safe and Minor)

If the water damage is small:

  • Use towels or a wet/dry shop vac
  • Open windows (if weather allows)

However – do not rely on household fans alone. They can spread moisture into other areas instead of removing it.

For anything more than a small spill, professional drying equipment is necessary.

Step 7 – Avoid These Common Mistakes

Many homeowners unintentionally make water damage worse by:

  • Leaving wet carpet in place (it holds massive amounts of water)
  • Assuming “it looks dry” means it actually is
  • Painting over stains instead of drying the wall
  • Running the HVAC system while water is present
  • Waiting too long before calling a professional

Delaying water damage restoration almost always increases repair costs.

Step 8 – Contact Your Insurance Company

Most homeowner insurance policies cover sudden water damage (like burst pipes or storm damage). Call your insurance agent to report the claim – but don’t wait for approval before taking action.

Insurance requires homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Calling a professional restoration company like Kiser Construction satisfies this requirement.

We also work directly with many insurance companies to streamline the process.

Step 9 – Know When You Need Immediate Help

Call a professional Minnesota water damage restoration company right away if you see any of the following:

  • Water dripping through ceiling lights
  • Bubbling or peeling drywall
  • Soaked carpet padding
  • Musty odor after 24 hours
  • Sewage backup
  • Water near your furnace or water heater

These are signs that the damage is serious and needs expert attention.

Why Choose Kiser Construction for Water Damage Restoration in Minnesota?

At Kiser Construction, we specialize in:

  • Water damage restoration
  • Fire damage restoration
  • Storm damage repair
  • Mold remediation
  • Structural reconstruction

We are:

  • Locally owned
  • Licensed and insured
  • Available 24/7
  • Known for fast response times
  • Experienced with Minnesota winters, ice dams, and frozen pipes

When disaster strikes, you don’t have to handle it alone.

Call Kiser Construction anytime for emergency water damage restoration in Minnesota, our hotline number is 612-518-8852.

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