The short answer
Immediate Evacuation Signs
You should leave your home right away if you notice any signs of structural instability. Large cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations, a sagging roof, or a leaning wall all mean the building may not be safe. Water damage can weaken materials over time, so do not ignore these warning signs.
Smoke, sparks, or the smell of gas are also clear reasons to evacuate. A natural gas leak can cause an explosion, and standing water near electrical outlets or appliances creates a shock hazard. If you see any of these, get everyone outside and call 911 from a safe distance.
- Hearing hissing or smelling rotten eggs, which indicates a gas leak
- Seeing cracks that are widening or spreading across walls or ceilings
- Noticing a sagging ceiling or a floor that feels spongy
- Smelling smoke or seeing sparks from outlets or appliances
- Finding water level rising quickly inside the home
- Feeling the ground shake or hearing unusual creaks from the structure
Assess the Severity of Water Damage
Not all water damage requires evacuation. A small leak from a pipe or a slow drip from a ceiling may be manageable. You can often shut off the water supply and call a plumber to fix the source. However, if water has been pooling for hours or days, the damage may be more extensive than it appears.
Flooding from outside, especially if water is entering the home, is a different situation. Floodwater can carry contaminants and hide debris. If the water is deep or moving, do not wade in. Your safety comes first, so if you have any doubts about the stability of the home, err on the side of caution and leave.
Health Risks in a Damaged Home
A damaged home can pose health risks beyond structural issues. Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure, leading to respiratory problems. If you have asthma, allergies, or other breathing conditions, you may need to leave until the area is dried and cleaned.
Contaminated water from sewage or chemicals is another concern. If you come into contact with it, you could get sick. See a doctor if you feel unwell after being in a flooded area. Also, electrical hazards can cause injury, so avoid touching anything that may be wet while the power is on.
What to Take and Do When You Leave
When you decide to evacuate, take essential items with you. Grab your daily medicines, important documents, wallets, and phones. If you have pets, bring them along. Turn off the main water valve and, if safe, shut off the electricity at the breaker to prevent further damage or shocks.
Once you are out, do not re-enter until a professional has assessed the home. Local water damage pros can inspect the structure and identify hazards. They can also help with water damage inspection to determine what is safe. If you live in Mesa, keep a list of emergency contacts handy for such situations.
- Grab daily medicines, IDs, insurance papers, and cash
- Bring pets and any necessary pet supplies
- Turn off the main water valve and, if safe, the power
- Avoid touching wet electrical items
- Do not drive through flooded roads
- Call emergency services if you suspect a gas leak or fire
After Evacuation: Next Steps
After you are safe, focus on preventing further damage. If you can, document the damage with photos or videos for your insurance records. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what you need to report and how to file a claim.
The pros can help with cleanup and repairs, such as water-damaged flooring removal or drywall water damage repair. They typically assess the extent of the damage and work to dry out the home. Even if you had to leave, the goal is to make the home safe for you to return.
Need help right now?
Call (480) 898-4279 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a crack is dangerous?
Hairline cracks in plaster are often cosmetic, but cracks wider than a quarter inch, or those that are diagonal and growing, may indicate structural issues. If you can see daylight through a crack or it is near a door frame, get a professional opinion.
Can I stay in a room with a leaking ceiling?
A small leak might be okay temporarily if the ceiling is not sagging. But if the ceiling bulges or drips heavily, it could collapse. Move furniture out and place a bucket, but if you see signs of weakness, leave the room.
What if I smell gas after water damage?
Leave immediately. Do not turn on lights or use your phone inside, as a spark could ignite the gas. Once outside, call your gas company or 911. Do not re-enter until the gas is shut off and the area is declared safe.