The short answer
Start with a Building Plan
Before any work begins, review your building's rules about construction, noise hours, and waste disposal. High-rise buildings often have strict protocols for using service elevators and blocking hallways. You may need to reserve a freight elevator or schedule work during off-peak hours. Ask your building manager for a written list of requirements so you can share it with the pros.
- Review building rules for work hours and waste disposal
- Reserve the freight elevator or service elevator in advance
- Locate and label your unit's water shutoff valve
- Know the building's emergency contact number
- Check if you need a permit for large equipment
- Ask about noise restrictions for your floor
Coordinate with the Pros
Local water damage pros can handle drying, cleaning, and repairs, but high-rise work requires extra planning. They need to know floor heights, elevator dimensions, and whether a crane is an option for large items. Share your building's rules with them before work begins. Ask what equipment they plan to bring and how they will move it.
- Give the pros a copy of building rules and floor plans
- Confirm equipment fits in elevators and stairwells
- Ask about power sources and extension cord safety
- Discuss waste removal and dumpster access
- Plan for after-hours work if noise is an issue
- Check if the pros need a parking permit for their vehicles
Handle Your Belongings Carefully
High-rise moves are tricky for furniture and electronics. You may need to carry items down stairs if the elevator is too small. Take photos of everything damaged before moving anything. For electronics, do not turn them on until they are completely dry. You can ask the pros about electronics restoration if water got into devices.
For artwork and antiques, avoid stacking wet frames or papers. Place them upright in a dry room with good air circulation. If items are valuable, consider separate restoration services for artwork or antiques. Keep a detailed list of what was damaged and where it was in the unit. This helps with insurance claims and keeps you organized.
- Photograph every damaged item before moving it
- Do not power on wet electronics until fully dried
- Separate wet artwork and antiques to prevent further damage
- Use a dolly or hand truck for heavy furniture in stairwells
- Label boxes with the room and content type
- Keep receipts for any temporary storage costs
Work with Insurance and Recovery
Your insurance policy may cover water damage, but high-rise claims can be complex. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy to see if you have coverage for building property, personal belongings, and temporary housing. Ask your insurer about deductibles and whether you need to document damage before repairs start.
Keep all receipts for cleaning supplies, storage, and any hotel stays. The pros can give you a written report of what they did, but they do not file claims for you. You will need to submit that report to your insurer. If you have questions about coverage, call your insurance company directly. Do not wait too long to file, as some policies have time limits.
- Read your policy to understand what is covered
- Document damage with photos and written descriptions
- Save receipts for all expenses related to the damage
- Ask the pros for a written summary of their work
- File your claim quickly to meet any deadlines
- Contact your insurer for questions about coverage
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Rockwall and nearby communities.
Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
How do I move furniture down from a high floor?
Use the freight elevator if it fits. For large items, you may need to disassemble them or use the stairs with a hand truck. Ask the building manager about any restrictions. The pros can help move heavy items, but you should plan ahead to avoid blocking stairwells.
Can I dry out my unit myself?
You can use fans and dehumidifiers to start drying, but high-rise units often have hidden moisture in walls and floors. If the damage is extensive, the pros can do a thorough job with industrial equipment. They can also check for mold, which is a health concern.
What if the water damaged the unit below mine?
Tell your building manager and your insurance company right away. The unit below may have separate damage. Your policy might cover that damage if it was caused by your unit's issue. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Act quickly to prevent further problems.