Water damage can happen quickly and without warning—from burst pipes and appliance malfunctions to sewer backups, sump pump failures and flash floods. Left unchecked, even minor flooding can lead to serious problems like warped floors, weakened drywall, and dangerous mold growth.

Whether you’re facing a minor leak or major flooding, time is critical. The sooner you act, the better your chances of minimizing damage and keeping restoration costs down.

At Green Tree Environmental, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses within Onondaga, Oswego, Oneida, and Cortland counties and beyond, recover from water damage. This guide breaks down what you can expect during the restoration process—from the first emergency call to the final repairs—and explains why each step is essential to restoring your property safely and effectively.

Step 1: Emergency Contact and Initial Assessment

When you discover water damage, time is of the essence. Water can start damaging your property within minutes, and mold can begin forming in as little as 24 hours.

Calling a trusted local restoration company like Green Tree Environmental should be your first move. We’ll ask questions about the source of the water, when it started, and what areas are affected. These details help us respond with the right crew, tools, and safety measures.

We’ll also guide you through immediate steps to reduce damage while help is on the way—such as turning off the water supply, avoiding electrical hazards, or moving valuables out of harm’s way.

A fast and informed response at this stage can make all the difference in protecting your home and speeding up recovery.

• Proactive Tip: How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

Step 2: On-Site Inspection and Damage Assessment

Once on-site, our certified technicians begin with a detailed inspection to identify the water source and determine how far the damage has spread. Understanding the type of water involved is just as critical. Clean water from a broken pipe typically poses minimal risk, while gray water—such as overflow from appliances—may carry bacteria or other contaminants. Black water, which comes from sewage backups or storm flooding, is hazardous and requires strict safety protocols.

After containing the source, we assess the full extent of the damage. Obvious signs like wet flooring are easy to identify, but water often seeps into hidden areas. Using advanced moisture meters and thermal imaging, we locate water trapped behind walls, beneath floors, or in ceiling cavities—places that, if ignored, could lead to mold or structural damage.

This comprehensive evaluation allows us to develop a tailored restoration plan that prioritizes safety, efficiency, and long-term protection. A thorough inspection not only accelerates the recovery process—it ensures your Central New York home is restored to a safe and healthy condition.

Step 3: Water Extraction

With the assessment complete, we begin the urgent task of water removal. Using high-powered vacuums and submersible pumps, we extract standing water from affected areas—floors, carpets, basements, and crawlspaces.

The goal is simple: remove water fast to stop further damage and prepare for drying. Quick extraction limits the risk of rot, mold, and expensive structural repairs.

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

After extraction, we address the moisture you can’t see. Water often lingers inside walls, under flooring, or within framing materials—even if surfaces appear dry.

Using commercial-grade air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers, our team targets deep moisture. We monitor the process using moisture meters and humidity sensors to ensure your property reaches safe, dry levels before repairs begin.

Drying time depends on material type, weather, and water exposure. Rushing this step can cause long-term issues, so we do it right the first time.

• Curious about the risks of lingering moisture? Signs Your Home May Need Mold Remediation

Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Once dry, it’s time to clean and sanitize the area. Water damage often introduces dirt, debris, and contaminants—especially when caused by gray or black water.

We disinfect floors, walls, and salvageable belongings using professional-grade cleaners and antimicrobial treatments. If black water was involved, some items may need to be safely discarded to eliminate health risks.

If mold has started to form, we seamlessly integrate mold remediation into this step to restore a healthy environment.

By the end of this phase, your space is not just dry—it’s disinfected, deodorized, and ready for repair.

• Related: What Is Black Mold, and How Dangerous Is It?

Step 6: Restoration and Repairs

The final step is restoring your home or business to its pre-damage condition—or better. This may include:

• Replacing drywall and insulation
• Installing new flooring
• Repainting walls
• Repairing or rebuilding damaged structures

Green Tree Environmental offers full-service restoration throughout Onondaga, Oswego, Oneida, and Cortland counties, so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors. We manage everything in-house—from water extraction to mold removal to final repairs—ensuring a seamless recovery.

• Want to reduce future risk? Check out How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

What to Expect During the Process

Throughout the water damage restoration process, we keep you informed and involved at every stage. Here’s what you can expect from working with Green Tree Environmental:

• Prompt Response: 24/7 emergency service across Central New York
• Expertise: Licensed local technicians with state-of-the-art tools
• Clear Communication: Upfront estimates and regular progress updates
• All-in-One Service: Water damage, mold remediation, and restoration—under one roof
• Safety First: Thorough drying, sanitation, and health-focused practices