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Frequently Asked Questions – Emergency Actions
Immediate steps to take when you discover water damage.
- What immediate steps should I take after discovering water damage?
- The moment you discover water damage, your priority is safety. First, assess for electrical hazards; if water is near outlets or appliances, shut off power at the breaker. Next, stop the water at its source, which may require turning off your home's main water valve. Once the area is safe, protect your belongings by moving smaller items to a dry space and placing aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs. Before cleaning, thoroughly document the damage with photos and videos for your insurance claim. Contact your insurance provider immediately to get the claims process started. For small amounts of water, use towels and mops. For larger volumes, a wet/dry vacuum or a sump pump is necessary. The goal is to dry the area within 24-48 hours to prevent mold, so use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air. For anything more than a minor leak, calling a professional restoration service is the safest bet to ensure your home is dried thoroughly and correctly.
- What should I do if a pipe bursts in my home?
- A burst pipe requires immediate action to minimize damage. Your first step should be to shut off the main water valve to your house to stop the flow of water. Once the water is off, open your faucets to drain the remaining water from the pipes. If water has reached electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the electricity to the affected areas at the breaker box to prevent electrical shock. Once the situation is stabilized, call a licensed plumber to repair the broken pipe. Be sure to take extensive photos of the damage for your insurance claim before you begin any cleanup.
- How should I respond to a leaking washing machine or dishwasher?
- For a leaking appliance, act quickly to stop the water flow. Most washing machines and dishwashers have dedicated shut-off valves on the wall behind or near them; turn these clockwise to close them. If you can't find them, shut off the main water supply to your home. Unplug the appliance or turn off its breaker to prevent electrical hazards. Use towels to mop up the water to prevent it from spreading. Once contained, you can investigate the source—often a failed hose or a bad seal. Depending on the cause, you may need to call an appliance repair professional.
- What steps should I take after a toilet overflow or sewage backup?
- A sewage backup is a serious health hazard that requires extreme caution. First, do not use any more water in the house, as this can worsen the backup. If you can do so safely, turn off the water to the overflowing toilet. Keep children and pets far away from the contaminated area. Wear waterproof boots and gloves if you must enter the space. Because sewage (black water) contains dangerous pathogens, this is not a DIY cleanup job. You must call a certified restoration company that specializes in biohazard and sewage cleanup to safely decontaminate and restore the area.
- Water is leaking through my ceiling—what should I do?
- A ceiling leak indicates a water source from the floor above or the roof. Immediately move or cover any furniture and belongings directly under the leak. If the ceiling is sagging or bulging with water, take a screwdriver and carefully puncture the center of the bulge. This will allow the water to drain in a controlled way into a bucket, preventing the ceiling from collapsing. Next, try to identify and stop the source of the leak. Once the leak is stopped, you'll need to address the wet ceiling, insulation, and framing, which almost always requires professional help to dry properly and check for mold.
- What should renters do when water damage occurs?
- If you're a renter, your first responsibility is to notify your landlord or property manager immediately, as they are responsible for the building itself. Do this in writing (email is fine) to create a record. You are responsible for your own belongings, which is where your renter's insurance policy comes in. Contact your insurance agent to start a claim for your damaged personal property. As with any water event, avoid electrical hazards and stay out of areas with contaminated water. Document the damage to your possessions with photos.
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