A flood or burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons per hour, turning Category 1 clean water into Category 3 black water in just 48 hours—breeding mold, bacteria, and structural rot that costs $20,000–$100,000 to fix. In South Florida’s humid climate, secondary damage escalates 10 times faster than in drier states. EPR (Environmental Pro Restoration), a Florida-licensed firm with 15 years of experience, responds 24/7 with IICRC-certified teams—containing 98% of losses on arrival. This guide outlines the seven immediate actions every homeowner must take. Call +1 (754) 221-6945 or email info@eprllc.net for emergency response now.
Water damage doesn’t wait—so neither should you. EPR has handled 2,800+ flood events with zero unresolved insurance disputes. A Fort Lauderdale burst pipe case left untreated for 72 hours grew into $72,000 mold remediation. Acting in the first 24 hours cuts costs 60–80%. These steps follow EPA, IICRC S500, and Florida DOH guidelines.
Step 1: Ensure Safety – Shut Off Electricity and Gas
Risk: Electrocution from submerged outlets or gas leaks from shifted lines. Action:
- Locate main breaker—flip to OFF if safe to reach.
- Shut off gas at meter if you smell gas or hear hissing.
- Evacuate if standing water reaches outlets.
EPR arrives with licensed electricians to isolate power safely. A Pompano Beach client avoided shock hazard after our 42-minute response.
Step 2: Stop the Water Source Immediately
Common Sources:
- Burst supply line (washing machine, toilet, sink)
- Failed water heater
- Roof leak or overflowing gutter
Action:
- Shut off main water valve (usually at street or garage).
- Turn off water heater breaker/valve.
- Place buckets or tarps under active roof leaks.
Every minute delays adds 5–10 gallons. EPR’s plumbers repair sources during containment.
Step 3: Remove Standing Water as Fast as Possible
Timeline: Extract within 24 hours to prevent Category escalation. DIY Tools: Wet/dry vac, pump, squeegees. Limits: Homeowners remove only 10–20% effectively.
EPR deploys truck-mounted extractors (2,000+ CFM) removing 95% in hours. A Deerfield Beach client extracted 800 gallons in 3 hours—preventing floor delamination.
Step 4: Call Professionals – Don’t Wait for Insurance Adjuster
Myth: “I must wait for my adjuster.” Fact: Policies require “reasonable mitigation” — delaying voids coverage for secondary damage.
EPR provides:
- 60-minute dispatch guarantee Broward/Palm Beach
- Direct insurance billing (Allstate, State Farm, Citizens, Universal + 40 carriers)
- Photo/video documentation for claims
We’ve saved clients $28,000 average by acting before adjuster arrival.
Step 5: Document Everything for Your Claim
What to Capture:
- Photos/videos of water source and all affected areas
- Serial numbers of damaged appliances
- Water depth marks on walls
- Timestamped extraction progress
EPR supplies sworn inventory and moisture mapping reports—accepted by every major carrier.
Step 6: Begin Air Movement and Dehumidification
Goal: Drop relative humidity below 60% within 24 hours. DIY: Open windows if outdoor RH lower; use box fans. Pro Equipment: EPR deploys 50+ LGR dehumidifiers and 100+ air movers per job—achieving <40% RH in 48 hours. (Burst Pipe)
Prevents 90% of mold growth when combined with extraction.
Step 7: Remove Unsavable Materials Promptly
Porous Items That Must Go:
- Wet drywall 12–18 inches above water line
- Saturated insulation
- Swollen particle-board cabinets
- Carpet/pad after 24 hours
EPR performs controlled demolition—double-bagging debris to prevent spore spread. A Hollywood client avoided $18,000 extra mold claim by removing wet drywall same day.
Why EPR Is South Florida’s Emergency Leader
- Florida license MRSR 3795
- IICRC Master Water Restorer certified
- 24/7 live answer—no voicemail
- Direct billing + documentation that gets claims paid fast
- 4.9-star average on Facebook
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast should I call professionals? Within 1–2 hours—every hour delays doubles potential mold growth.
Will my insurance cover emergency services? Yes—most policies cover “reasonable mitigation costs.”
Can I stay in the home? Usually yes during extraction/drying if power isolated and no sewage.
What if it’s sewage backup? Category 3—immediate evacuation until sanitized.
Do you work weekends/holidays? Yes—same response time.
How do I reach EPR? Call +1 (754) 221-6945 or email info@eprllc.net.
Act Now to Save Thousands
Water damage worsens by the hour. EPR’s 24/7 teams stop the destruction and start restoration immediately.
Call +1 (754) 221-6945 or email info@eprllc.net for emergency response.
Visit EPR LLC for more resources.
Your quick action today prevents a disaster tomorrow.
