Water damage mitigation is the term used to describe actions that may be taken to prevent excessive damage to property and belongings when water-related emergencies occur. It often includes: Removing damaged property, including drywall and flooring Extracting water and drying surfaces Monitoring structural integrity, and taking precautions to prevent further damage, such as laying sandbags outside the home, tarping buildings, and boarding up windows Water damage restoration is the process that occurs after water has been cleaned up and damages have been assessed. It includes tasks like repairing or replacing drywall and floors, eliminating mold, and testing the air for humidity to ensure no further damage will occur.