The short answer
Safety First
Before you touch anything, shut off the electricity at the main breaker if the water has reached outlets or appliances. Also turn off the gas if you smell it, and call the utility company from a safe spot. Do not enter a flooded room until you are sure the power is off and the floor is stable.
Wear rubber boots, gloves, and a mask because floodwater can carry sewage, chemicals, and debris. Watch for sharp objects and slippery surfaces. If you feel unwell or have trouble breathing, see a doctor. Your health comes before any cleanup effort.
- Turn off power at the main breaker if safe
- Turn off gas if you smell a leak
- Wear boots, gloves, and a mask
- Avoid standing water that may be electrified
- Check for structural damage before entering
- Keep children and pets away from flooded areas
Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of every wet area, item, and the water level before you move anything. This helps your insurance company understand what happened. Write down the date and time of the flood and any steps you take.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what it says about flood damage. Keep all receipts for supplies and equipment you buy for cleanup, as those may matter later.
Remove Water and Wet Items
Use a pump, wet/dry vacuum, or buckets to remove standing water, but only if the power is off and it is safe. Move furniture, rugs, and belongings to a dry area. Discard anything that soaked up water and cannot be saved, such as mattresses, pillows, and cardboard boxes.
Open windows and doors to let air circulate, and use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying. The longer items stay wet, the more likely they will grow mold. Act quickly to reduce the damage.
Clean and Disinfect
After the water is gone, scrub hard surfaces like walls, floors, and counters with a detergent and warm water. Then apply a disinfectant to kill germs from the floodwater. Rinse and let everything dry completely before rebuilding.
For items like clothing and dishes, wash them in hot water with bleach if possible. If you are unsure about an item, throw it out. Mold can start within 24 to 48 hours, so drying is your top priority.
Know When to Call the Pros
Flash floods can soak drywall, insulation, and flooring in ways that are hard to handle alone. If the water level was high or the space stayed wet for more than a day, local water damage pros have the equipment and knowledge to dry and restore your home properly.
They can also inspect for hidden moisture in walls and under floors. If you live in Mesa, keep the phone numbers of reliable water damage services handy. Their work usually involves drying, cleaning, and repairing, but the exact steps depend on the extent of the damage.
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Mesa and nearby communities.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry out a home after a flood?
Drying can take days to weeks, depending on the materials and how much water got in. Concrete and wood dry slowly, while drywall and insulation may need removal. Using fans and dehumidifiers speeds up the process, but hidden moisture can remain.
Can I clean up floodwater myself?
For small areas with clean water, you can do it yourself with proper safety gear. But floodwater is often contaminated, and deep water damage may require professional help to avoid mold and structural issues. If the water was high or dirty, call the pros.
What should I throw away after a flood?
Throw away anything porous that absorbed water: mattresses, pillows, upholstered furniture, carpets, drywall, and insulation. Also discard food that touched floodwater. Items you can clean, like glass and metal, may be saved if you disinfect them thoroughly.