The First 48 Hours: Why Water & Fire Damage Can't Wait

Guest: Kelly Langseth (recorded while serving with Rainbow Restoration of Northeast Kansas) Hosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) A small leak. A kitchen fire. Smoke from a nearby room. What happens in the first few hours after damage occurs can make all the difference in protecting your home—and your wallet. In this episode, Kelly Langseth joins Lexie and Patrick to explain what homeowners often get wrong about water and fire damage, why hidden damage can be just as serious as what you can see, and what steps you should take when disaster strikes. Please note: This episode was recorded while Kelly was with Rainbow Restoration of Northeast Kansas. Although she has since moved into a new role, the information shared in this episode reflects her restoration expertise and experience at the time of recording. We cover: 💧 The most common causes of water damage in homes ⏱️ Why acting quickly can prevent mold and structural damage 🔥 The hidden effects of smoke and soot—even after a small fire 🏠 How water and fire damage impact drywall, flooring, insulation, and HVAC systems 📋 When to call your insurance company versus a restoration professional 📸 What homeowners should document immediately after damage occurs 🏡 How previous damage can affect a home's resale value 🛠️ Practical steps every homeowner can take to reduce their risk Plus, we separate fact from fiction by discussing common misconceptions about mold, insurance coverage, smoke damage, and whether drying things out is enough. Whether you're a homeowner, buyer, or seller, this episode provides valuable information that could save you thousands of dollars—and a lot of stress. 🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno 🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library 🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113 👏 Special thanks to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for all of her incredible work behind the scenes coordinating guests, organizing logistics, and helping make each episode possible.