Water staining and damaged plaster on a residential ceiling
Illustrative restoration photograph.

Start with the basic timeline.

Record when the water or damage was first noticed, the known source and which rooms are affected. Distinguish what you observed from what has not yet been established.

Take photos only from a safe location.

Do not approach unstable ceilings, contaminated water or electrical hazards for a photograph. Save any existing images with the date and a short note about the room.

Keep the work record together.

Retain scope notes, moisture observations where provided, quotes, invoices and correspondence. Include details of any plumber, electrician or other contractor who has attended.

Check what the relevant party requires.

Ask the insurer or authorised property manager what documentation and approvals they need. A restoration record describes damage and work; it does not decide whether a policy covers the incident.

For flood and electrical safety information

Follow emergency-service directions. For immediate danger, call 000. See NSW SES flood guidance and NSW Health household safety advice.