1. Locate the source of the leak: Determine where the water is coming from, so you can take the appropriate action to stop it.
2. Turn off the water supply: If the leak is coming from a fixture or appliance, turn off the water supply valve to that specific fixture or appliance. If the leak is coming from the main water supply, turn off the main water supply valve.
3. Call a plumber: If you are unable to locate or fix the leak yourself, or if the leak is causing significant damage, it is best to call a plumber for help. They will be able to quickly identify and fix the problem.
4. Dry up and remove standing water: Water damage can be significant. Use dry towels and a wet-dry vacuum to remove as much water as possible.
5. Assess the damage: Inspect the area for any damage and take note of it. Take picture of the damage to show the plumber or insurance company.
6. Contact your insurance company: If the damage is significant and is covered by your insurance policy, contact your insurance company to file a claim.

Water damage can potentially affect walls in a number of ways. If a wall is exposed to water for an extended period of time, it can lead to several problems such as:

• Warping: The wall may begin to warp or bend, which can cause cracks and holes to form.
• Drying: If the wall does not dry out properly, mold and mildew can begin to form, which can cause a musty smell and can be harmful to your health.
• Staining: The wall may become stained, discolored, or start to peel.
• Structural Damage: Over time, water can weaken the structure of the wall and cause it to become unstable or even collapse.

It’s important to address water damage promptly to reduce the likelihood of these issues. If a wall has been exposed to water and is showing signs of damage or discoloration, it should be inspected by a professional to determine the extent of the damage and what repairs are needed.

If a wall has been damaged by water and needs to be repaired or replaced, the work will typically be done by a general contractor or a remodeling contractor. These professionals have the experience and skills needed to repair or rebuild walls.

The contractor will likely start by inspecting the damage to determine the extent of the repairs needed. They will also check for any potential hazards, such as mold or structural damage. Then they will remove any damaged materials and replace them with new ones, and repair any structural damage that may have occurred. They will also check the insulation and drywall, fix it if necessary.

The contractor will also check the condition of the wall framing and make any repairs necessary to ensure that the wall is stable and secure. Once the repairs are made, the contractor will install new drywall, paint or texture the wall, and make any additional finish work as needed to make the wall look like new.

After the repair, the contractor will give you detailed report about the works done, the condition of the wall and what to look for in future. It’s worth to have an inspection done by a professional to ensure that the wall is repaired properly and that all potential issues have been addressed.

The question of who will pay for a plumber to fix a water leak can depend on a number of factors, including the cause of the leak and whether or not you have homeowner’s insurance.

• If the leak is caused by a problem with a plumbing fixture or appliance that you are responsible for maintaining, such as a leaky faucet or a broken toilet, you will likely be responsible for paying for the plumber’s services.
• If the leak is caused by a problem with a plumbing system that is the responsibility of your landlord, such as a leak in the main water supply line, your landlord will likely be responsible for paying for the plumber’s services.
• if the leak is caused by an insurable event, like burst pipe or a broken water heater, and you have homeowner’s insurance with coverage that includes damage caused by leaks and water damage, the insurance company may pay for the cost of the plumber and other repairs needed to fix the damage, subject to the terms of your policy.

It’s important to understand the coverage of your insurance policy, so you can be sure what the policy will cover before you call the plumber. If you’re uncertain about the cause of the leak or who should pay for the repairs, it’s always best to speak with a plumber, landlord or insurance company representative to get more information.