What to do right after water damage.

1. Put safety first

• Don't enter rooms with standing water if outlets, cords or appliances may be submerged.
• If you smell gas, see sparking or notice a sagging ceiling, leave the area and call 911 or your utility.
• Treat water from sewage backups or outside flooding as contaminated — avoid contact and keep children and pets away.

2. Stop the water if you safely can

• Shut off the main water valve — often near the water heater, in a garage, or at the meter by the street.
• For an appliance leak, close the supply valve behind the appliance.
• Turn off power to affected rooms at the breaker only if you can reach it without standing in water.

3. Document everything

• Take photos and video of every affected room, ceiling, floor and damaged item before moving anything.
• Note when you first noticed the water and what you think caused it.
• Keep receipts for anything you buy or any emergency expenses.

4. Protect what you can

• Move furniture, rugs, electronics, documents and valuables to a dry area.
• Place foil or wood blocks under furniture legs that can't be moved.
• Open windows for airflow if weather allows — but don't run fans on contaminated water.

5. Contact your insurance company

Ask how your policy treats water damage, whether you need to file a claim before work begins, and what documentation they need. Coverage depends entirely on your policy and insurer.

6. Get a restoration provider involved

Moisture can spread into drywall, insulation, subfloors and framing within hours to days. A restoration provider can measure moisture and dry the structure properly. Call us to try to connect with an independent provider in your area.