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What Should You Do First When Your Home Floods?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

When water enters your home, your first move is to protect people. Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if you can reach it without stepping into water. If the water is deep or near electrical outlets, stay back and call the power company. Avoid touching anything electrical while standing in water.

Floodwater can hide sharp objects, chemicals, or sewage. Wear rubber boots and gloves if you must enter the area. Keep children and pets away from the affected rooms. If you feel unwell or notice a gas smell, leave the house and see a doctor if you feel unwell. Your health comes before saving belongings.

Stop the Water Source

If the flood comes from a burst pipe or an overflowing appliance, shut off the main water valve. Find the valve near your water meter or where the main line enters the house. Keep the location of your shutoff valve written down so you can act fast during an emergency.

For rain or storm flooding, you may not be able to stop the water. In that case, move items to higher floors or elevate furniture with blocks. Clear any clogged gutters or drains that might worsen the situation. Do not wade into fast-moving water outside.

  • Turn off the main water valve if a pipe burst
  • Unplug appliances in the affected area if safe
  • Move rugs, furniture, and electronics to dry spots
  • Prop up sofa legs on bricks or wood blocks
  • Close doors to contain water if it helps
  • Open windows for ventilation if weather permits

Document the Damage

Before you start cleaning, take photos and videos of every wet area, item, and the water level. Capture close-ups of damaged floors, walls, and furniture. This record helps with your insurance claim and gives the pros a clear picture of what happened. Do not throw anything away until you have documented it.

Make a list of damaged belongings and note their approximate age and value. Keep receipts for any supplies you buy for temporary fixes. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what you need to report and how soon.

Start Drying Out

Once the water stops, begin drying the area as soon as possible. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows if the weather is dry. Remove soaked carpets and padding if you can, as they hold moisture and promote mold. Lift wet upholstery off the floor and hang it outside if possible.

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours in warm conditions. If you have a hot dry climate, the dry air helps, but act quickly anyway. Wear an N95 mask when handling moldy materials. If the flooding is extensive, local water damage pros can handle the extraction and drying with commercial equipment.

  • Run fans and dehumidifiers around the clock
  • Remove wet carpets and rugs to dry them outside
  • Wipe down wet surfaces with clean cloths
  • Dispose of soaked insulation and drywall
  • Keep the area ventilated to speed evaporation

Call the Pros

For significant flooding, you do not have to handle it alone. The pros have industrial fans, water extractors, and moisture meters to dry walls and floors thoroughly. They can also check for hidden water in insulation and behind baseboards. A flooded crawl space or lower level needs special attention.

Search for water damage cleanup services in your area. Ask about their process and what they will do first. They can also help with water damage inspection and drywall repair after the initial cleanup. Act quickly to prevent mold and structural issues from getting worse.

Water damage does not wait

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for mold to grow after a flood?

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions, especially in warm, humid areas. That is why you should begin drying out the space as soon as possible. Remove wet materials and increase airflow to slow mold growth.

Should I throw away soaked carpets and drywall?

Often yes, because water can ruin them and promote mold. Carpet padding and drywall that stayed wet for more than a day usually need to be removed. The pros can test moisture levels and tell you what is salvageable.

What if the flood came from a broken pipe in the wall?

Stop the water source first by shutting off the main valve. Then remove wet drywall and insulation to let the wall cavity dry. A plumber can fix the pipe, and a water damage pro can dry the structure and repair the drywall.

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