Water Damage Restoration Tips: Protecting Your Chicago & North Shore Home

Water damage doesn’t wait for a convenient time. A burst pipe at midnight, a flooded basement after a summer storm, or a slow appliance leak that goes unnoticed for weeks — all can leave Chicagoland and North Shore homeowners with costly repairs and health risks. The good news? Knowing the right water damage restoration tips can save thousands of dollars, prevent mold growth, and protect your family.

At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we’ve been restoring homes and businesses in Chicago, Oak Park, River Forest, Lake County, and the North Shore for over 40 years. Led by Sam Simon, an IICRC Master Fire & Water Restorer, our team has the training, certifications, and advanced equipment to handle water disasters of every scale.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step actions to take after water damage, what not to do, and when to call in certified professionals.

10 Essential Water Damage Restoration Tips

1. Make Safety Your First Priority

• Turn off electricity in affected areas before entering a flooded space.
• Watch for slippery floors, structural instability, or sagging ceilings.
• If water may contain sewage (Category 3 water), avoid all contact and call professionals immediately.

2. Stop the Source of Water

• Shut off the main water supply if a pipe has burst.
• If flooding is weather-related, use sandbags or barriers where possible.
• For sewer backups or appliance failures, contact a licensed plumber quickly.

3. Document Everything for Insurance

• Take photos and videos before cleanup begins.
• Keep receipts for any repairs, equipment rentals, or restoration services.
• Contact your insurance agent promptly to file a claim — our team works directly with most carriers to simplify the process.

4. Act Quickly — Time Is Your Enemy

• Mold begins growing within 24–48 hours of water exposure (CDC).
• Remove standing water using wet/dry vacuums or pumps if safe.
• Call a restoration professional as soon as possible to begin drying.

5. Ventilate and Circulate Air

• Open windows and doors when weather allows.
• Run fans to promote air circulation.
• Use dehumidifiers to lower humidity levels — especially important in basements.

6. Remove and Evaluate Building Materials

• Carpet padding almost always must be discarded.
• Drywall, insulation, and particleboard typically cannot be salvaged once saturated.
• Hardwood floors and baseboards may be saved with professional drying equipment.

7. Expose Hidden Moisture

• Water often hides behind walls, under floors, and inside cabinets.
• Professional thermal imaging and moisture meters identify unseen damage.
• Leaving hidden moisture untreated leads to long-term mold infestations and structural rot.

8. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

• Hard, non-porous surfaces like tile, metal, and concrete can often be cleaned and disinfected.
• Use professional-grade antimicrobial cleaners — not just household bleach.
• Contaminated porous items (e.g., mattresses, upholstered furniture) may require disposal.

9. Dry Thoroughly Before Rebuilding

• Never install new drywall, flooring, or insulation until moisture levels return to normal.
• Certified restorers use industrial air movers, dehumidifiers, and negative air systems to ensure complete drying.
• Rebuilding too soon locks in moisture, guaranteeing future damage.

10. Know When to Call the Experts

Some water damage situations (burst pipes, storm floods, sewage backups) are too hazardous or complex for DIY cleanup. Professional restoration companies bring:

• IICRC-certified technicians trained in water, mold, and microbial remediation.
• Advanced drying and monitoring equipment.
• Experience working with insurance companies to streamline claims.

At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we’ve deployed to some of the nation’s most severe disasters — including Hurricane Ike and Midwest floods — and we bring that same expertise to every home in Chicago and the North Shore.

FAQs: Water Damage in Chicago Homes

Q: How fast does mold grow after water damage?
A: Mold can begin forming within 24–48 hours, making rapid drying essential.

Q: Should I try to clean sewage water myself?
A: No. Category 3 water is extremely hazardous. Call certified professionals immediately.

Q: Will insurance cover my water damage?
A: It depends. Sudden pipe bursts are usually covered, but gradual leaks often are not. See our guide on homeowners' insurance and water damage claims.

Q: How do I know if the walls are dry enough to rebuild?
A: Professionals use moisture meters. Visual dryness isn’t reliable.

Why Choose ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

• Founded in Chicago in 1929, ServiceMaster is the nation’s oldest restoration brand.
• 40+ years of local expertise serving Chicagoland, Lake County, DuPage, and the North Shore.
• IICRC Master Fire & Water Restorer leadership ensures industry-standard excellence.
• Proud members of the Restoration Industry Association (RIA).
• Authors of RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset.

Call Today for Water Damage Help

If your Chicago, North Shore, or Oak Park home has suffered water damage, don’t wait. Call ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons 24/7:

• Chicago & Cook County: (773) 376-1110
• North Shore & Lake County: (847) 316-9145
• Oak Park & River Forest / DuPage County: (708) 524-0304

Services We Provide

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Specialty Cleaning