Crew was dispatched to assess a water loss at the property. The cause of loss was identified as a failure of the water supply stop serving the kitchen sink fixture. The homeowner reported that water may have been running for approximately 80 hours prior to discovery.

Water migrated beneath the kitchen cabinets and spread across multiple areas of the main level, including the kitchen, adjoining dining area, living room, foyer, and into the garage via wall cavities and the service door. Water also traveled downward into the basement below the kitchen floor, where visible moisture was observed on lower-level ceilings, walls, and flooring (see photos). Pooling water was discovered beneath carpet and pad in the lower level, and moisture readings on walls directly below the kitchen were at maximum (“red”) levels.

Multiple crew members  were on site performing removal of affected carpet and pad. Extraction efforts were challenged due to mechanical issues with the extraction van, including a clogged filter and freezing conditions caused by below-zero temperatures, which limited extraction efficiency.

Project documentation was completed, including video capture and floor plan setup in Encircle. Due to dehumidifiers not yet being fully operational, dry logs could not be established at that time. A return visit was scheduled to initiate proper monitoring once equipment was functioning.

The homeowner also noted a thermostat change completed by a family member shortly before the loss. The previous thermostat was reportedly malfunctioning; however, it is unknown whether this contributed to the loss. The interior of the home was cold upon arrival, though this may have been influenced by ongoing mitigation activities and doors being propped open.

Crew returned to meter affected areas, set up dry logs, and reposition equipment as needed. Remaining wet carpet pad on the main floor and carpet/pad on the stairwell were identified for removal. The dump trailer had already been removed by the crew earlier in the day. Access was coordinated via keypad entry provided by Robin.

Subsequent monitoring showed improved conditions in several areas. Two dehumidifiers and three air movers were returned to the warehouse, leaving three dehumidifiers and five air movers in place at that time. Later inspection confirmed lower moisture readings near active dehumidifiers; however, elevated moisture remained beneath the kitchen linoleum flooring, within drywall in multiple locations, and along the stairwell wall.

Lower-level family room ceilings and walls were metering drier than earlier in the week, indicating drying progress. Kitchen floor linoleum continued to meter high due to trapped moisture underneath.

Based on moisture readings and visual assessment, drying limitations have been reached in several areas. The following materials are recommended for removal due to persistent moisture and potential microbial growth:

• Kitchen cabinet bases

• Kitchen linoleum flooring

• Sections of drywall still metering high on the main level

• Stairwell wall areas with elevated moisture

• Lower-level ceiling beneath the kitchen

• Possible removal of the north wall due to suspected mold growth

All remaining equipment and air movers were removed, as interior air conditions were dry and further drying would not address moisture trapped behind finished materials. Drywall damage in certain areas exceeds drying capabilities and will require demolition and repair.