Guide
Water Damage Emergency Checklist
The first hour determines how much of the structure and how many of your belongings survive. Work this list in order.
Minutes 0–5: stop the water
Find the source and shut it down.
- Close the main shutoff at the meter or exterior wall
- Shut the cold inlet valve on a leaking water heater
- Close the appliance supply valve for a hose failure
Minutes 5–10: make it safe
Electricity and contaminated water are the two real hazards.
- Cut breakers to affected rooms from a dry location
- Keep children and pets out of the area
- Do not walk under a sagging ceiling
- Turn off the HVAC if water is contaminated
Minutes 10–25: document everything
Photograph and video the water, the source and affected contents before cleanup. This is the evidence your claim rests on.
Minutes 25–60: call and start limiting damage
Call for emergency extraction, then reduce spread where you safely can.
- Move small valuables and electronics to a dry room
- Lift curtains and drapes off wet floors
- Place foil or blocks under furniture legs to prevent staining
- Remove area rugs from wet hardwood
- Do not use a household vacuum on standing water
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