The first 24 hours after water damage

1. Make it safe

• If water is near outlets, appliances or the electrical panel, stay out of it. Turn power off at the breaker only if you can reach it while standing somewhere dry.
• Treat floodwater and sewage as contaminated. Wear gloves and boots, and keep children and pets away.
• If the structure looks compromised (sagging ceilings, a tree through the roof), leave and call 911 or your local fire department.

2. Stop the source

Shut off the main water valve for plumbing leaks. Know where it is before you need it: it is often near the street, the water heater or where the line enters the house. For roof leaks, catch water and get the opening covered once it is safe.

3. Document everything before cleanup

• Take wide photos and video of every affected room, then close-ups.
• Photograph the waterline on walls, the source of the leak and damaged belongings.
• Write down the time you discovered the damage.

4. Call your insurer and start mitigation

Most policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Report the claim, get a claim number, and keep receipts for any emergency work like extraction, tarping or fans.

5. Start drying

The EPA notes that mold can begin growing on wet materials within 24 to 48 hours. Remove standing water, move belongings out of wet areas, run air conditioning or dehumidifiers, and open cabinets and closets. Wet carpet pad and soaked drywall usually cannot be saved after contaminated water.

6. Do not sign anything under pressure

Read any contract before work starts. Make sure you understand what you are authorizing, how billing works, and whether you are being asked to assign your insurance benefits.