1. Safety first
Ready.gov advises against wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris, and says not to touch electrical equipment if it's wet or if you're standing in water. Turn off electricity only if it's safe to do so. If there's structural damage or a gas smell, stay out and call 911 or your utility.
2. Stop the source
For a burst pipe, supply line, or water heater, shut off the main water valve. For floodwater, wait until authorities say it's safe to return. For a sewage backup, stop using water in the house until the line is cleared.
3. Document before you move anything
Take wide photos and video of every affected room, the source, any waterline on the walls, and damaged belongings. Write down when the water started and what you did. FloodSmart recommends photos and video of major household items. See documenting water damage for insurance.
4. Dry within 24–48 hours
The EPA advises drying water-damaged areas and items within 24–48 hours to prevent mold growth. Surface water can be removed with pumps or wet vacs; water in walls, subfloors, and insulation usually needs dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture readings to confirm it's dry.
5. Decide what stays and what goes
The EPA notes that absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Materials soaked by floodwater or sewage are usually handled more strictly than ones wet by a clean supply line. Photograph anything before it's discarded.
6. Send one brief
A brief with the timeline, source, what's wet, claim status, and photos lets a water damage company know what to bring. If no company in our network covers you yet, we'll flag urgent briefs and try to connect you quickly. We're not a 24/7 line, so if you can reach a local company directly, don't wait on us.
Sources
- Ready.gov: Floods
- EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
- EPA: Mold Cleanup in Your Home
- FloodSmart (National Flood Insurance Program)