Stay Safe Before You Do Anything
- If there's fire or smoke damage, don't re-enter the structure until fire officials give the all-clear.
- If there's flooding, assume the water may be contaminated. Don't wade through standing water unless you must.
- Shut off utilities if it's safe: power, gas, and water. If you're unsure how, wait for help.
- Watch for structural issues: sagging ceilings, bowing walls, buckled floors, or cracks that weren't there before.
Joe’s tip: If the ceiling is sagging, don’t poke it with a broom handle-call a pro. It could drop gallons
of water or bring down drywall fast.
Take Photos-Before You Touch Anything
- Use your phone to photograph everything, even small areas of damage.
- Get wide shots and close-ups of affected rooms, surfaces, furniture, and appliances.
- Don't throw anything away yet. Even ruined items may be needed for documentation.
Joe’s tip: Shoot photos of the back of damaged cabinets and under carpet pads-insurance adjusters
rarely see that firsthand, but it can prove moisture damage.
Stop the Bleeding
- If water is still coming in, use towels, buckets, or tarps to contain it as best as you can.
- Move valuables and electronics away from water-damaged areas-especially off the floor.
- If safe, open windows to let humidity escape (but only if rain is done).
Joe’s tip: Never use a household fan to try and dry soaked drywall-it can trap moisture and actually
push mold deeper.
Call a Professional-Immediately
- Reach out to Ochoa Restoration Group at (281) 572-5104 any time, day or night.
- Lucia, our AI assistant, will answer after hours and get you on the schedule ASAP.
- We offer 24/7 response and we can start mitigation immediately to prevent further damage.
Secure Important Paperwork
- Insurance policies
- Mortgage documents
- Photo IDs
- Medical information
- Receipts for recent renovations, appliances, or furniture
Joe’s tip: Put documents in a plastic bin or Ziplock. If your power’s out and there’s standing water,
paper doesn’t last long.
Don't Try These DIY Mistakes
- Don't remove wet insulation or drywall unless trained-it can expose mold, bacteria, or asbestos.
- Don't start tearing out flooring before documenting.
- Don't climb onto your roof without safety gear.
Joe’s tip: We’ve seen folks fall through water-damaged ceilings more than once. Let the pros go first.
Start a Damage Log
- Write down everything you remember about when the damage started.
- List what you did to stop the damage (turning off water, placing towels, etc.)
- Track who you talk to at the insurance company, contractor visits, and any repair receipts.
Call Ochoa Restoration Group-Let's Handle This Together
We've been helping Houston families through fire, flood, storm, and mold damage for over 40 years. We know what to look for. We know how to help. And we're on call 24/7.
Call us now at (281) 572-5104 or visit www.ochoarestorationgroup.com
Lucia will answer if we’re helping another client. You’ll never go to voicemail.