Emergency FAQ – Treasure Valley Restoration

What to Do When Damage Happens

If you’re on this page during an active emergency: take a breath, then call (208) 852-8478. We’ll talk you through it. The information below covers the most common scenarios and what to do in the first hour.

Water Damage Emergencies

Burst pipe — what do I do?

Shut off the main water valve to the house.
Kill power to any flooded rooms at the breaker.
Move valuables to a dry area if you can do so safely.
Call (208) 852-8478.
Take photos for documentation.

Should I run my own fans and shop vac?

Within 24 hours. After that, mold can begin growing, drywall starts to crumble, and hardwood floors begin to warp permanently. The first 24 hours are by far the most important.

My basement is flooding right now.

Within 24 hours. After that, mold can begin growing, drywall starts to crumble, and hardwood floors begin to warp permanently. The first 24 hours are by far the most important.

Fire & Smoke Emergencies

The fire is out. Can I go in my house?

Only after the fire department says it’s safe. Even then, soot is a respiratory irritant and structural integrity may be compromised. If you must grab essentials, wear an N95 at minimum, and don’t touch soot-covered surfaces with bare hands.

Should I try to clean the soot myself?

Within 24 hours. After that, mold can begin growing, drywall starts to crumble, and hardwood floors begin to warp permanently. The first 24 hours are by far the most important.

What about my clothes and belongings?

Within 24 hours. After that, mold can begin growing, drywall starts to crumble, and hardwood floors begin to warp permanently. The first 24 hours are by far the most important.

Mold Emergencies

I just found mold. Should I touch it?

No. Disturbing visible mold without containment releases millions of spores into the rest of your house. Take a photo, close off the area if possible (close the door, not seal it), and call us for an assessment.

Should I bleach it?

Within 24 hours. After that, mold can begin growing, drywall starts to crumble, and hardwood floors begin to warp permanently. The first 24 hours are by far the most important.

Is it safe to stay in my house?

Within 24 hours. After that, mold can begin growing, drywall starts to crumble, and hardwood floors begin to warp permanently. The first 24 hours are by far the most important.

Storm & Sewage Emergencies

Wind blew off a piece of my roof — what now?

Get inside, get away from the affected area, and call (208) 852-8478. We do emergency tarping and board-up to prevent further damage from rain or animals.

Sewage came up through the basement drain.

Within 24 hours. After that, mold can begin growing, drywall starts to crumble, and hardwood floors begin to warp permanently. The first 24 hours are by far the most important.