DIY Mistakes People Make After a Flood (And What to Do Instead)

Flooding can be overwhelming—whether it’s a burst pipe, a heavy storm, or a basement backup. In the rush to clean up, many homeowners try to tackle the damage themselves. While it’s understandable to want to act fast, some common DIY mistakes can lead to bigger, costlier problems down the road.

At Heritage Restoration, we’ve seen it all. Here are the top mistakes people make after a flood—and what you should do instead to protect your home, your health, and your wallet.

Mistake #1: Using Household Fans to Dry the Area

Why it's a problem:
Regular fans don’t have the power to extract deep moisture from walls, floors, and substructures. Surface drying gives the illusion that everything is dry—but hidden moisture can linger behind drywall, under flooring, or inside insulation. This leads to mold growth, structural damage, and ongoing odors.

What to do instead:
Use professional-grade dehumidifiers and air movers, or call a certified restoration company like Heritage Restoration. We use moisture meters to detect hidden dampness and ensure your home is fully dried and safe.

Mistake #2: Waiting Too Long to Start Cleanup

Why it's a problem:
Mold can start growing in as little as 24–48 hours after water exposure. The longer water sits, the more it seeps into porous materials like drywall, wood, and carpet padding, making restoration more extensive and expensive.

What to do instead:
Act fast. Call a water damage restoration team immediately—even if you’re still waiting on insurance. Prompt action can reduce costs, limit damage, and help with your insurance claim documentation.

Mistake #3: Throwing Away Damaged Items Too Soon

Why it's a problem:
In the panic to clean up, many people toss out water-damaged items without taking photos or inventory. This can create problems during insurance claims and reduce the amount you’re reimbursed.

What to do instead:
Document everything before disposal. Take clear photos of all damage, and keep a written list of affected items and areas. Our team at Heritage Restoration can help you document losses and provide support through the claims process.

Mistake #4: Using Bleach to Clean Mold

Why it's a problem:
Bleach may kill mold on non-porous surfaces (like tiles), but it doesn’t work on porous materials like drywall or wood. In fact, it can sometimes make mold worse by adding moisture without killing the roots.

What to do instead:
Have mold professionally assessed. We use EPA-registered antimicrobial treatments designed for mold remediation—no bleach, no guesswork.

Mistake #5: Assuming the Damage Is Just Cosmetic

Why it's a problem:
Water damage isn’t always visible. Even small floods can compromise your foundation, electrical systems, or insulation. What looks like a small issue now can become a major problem in a few months.

What to do instead:
Schedule a professional inspection. Heritage Restoration offers thorough assessments to find hidden damage and restore your home completely—not just on the surface.

Let the Pros at Heritage Restoration Help

Flood recovery is stressful—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Heritage Restoration, we offer:

• 24/7 emergency response

• State-of-the-art drying and dehumidifying equipment

• Mold remediation and odor control

• Full documentation for insurance claims

• Friendly, expert technicians who care about your home

Don’t risk long-term damage or health issues with a DIY fix. Call Heritage Restoration today and get your home—and your peace of mind—back.