What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Flood

Overview

The first day after a flood sets the tone for everything that follows — how much of your home is saved, how smooth your insurance claim is, and how soon you're back to normal. Here's exactly what to do, in order.

1. Make sure it's safe

Your safety comes first. If water is near electrical outlets, the panel, or appliances, don't enter until power to those areas is off — and don't touch electrical items while standing in water. If you smell gas or suspect structural damage, leave and call the appropriate utility or authorities. If the water could be contaminated (sewage or storm water), avoid contact entirely.

2. Stop the source if you can

If the flooding is from a plumbing failure, shut off your water at the main valve. For an appliance leak, shut off that fixture's supply. Stopping the inflow is the most important thing you can do to limit damage. (For pipe failures specifically, see burst pipe? steps to take before help arrives.)

3. Call for professional help

Call a restoration company right away — the faster water is extracted and drying begins, the more can be saved. We answer 24/7 and are on-site in about 45 minutes across the South Bay: (408) 639-5349.

4. Document everything for insurance

Before you move or clean anything, take photos and videos of the damage from multiple angles — standing water, affected rooms, damaged belongings, and the source if visible. This documentation is the backbone of your claim. (More in documenting damage for your insurance claim.)

5. Protect what you can — carefully

If it's safe, move valuables and small furniture out of the water, lift drapes off wet floors, and remove items that can be damaged further. Don't use a household vacuum on standing water, and don't risk injury moving heavy items.

6. Notify your insurer

Open your claim promptly. You don't need to wait for the adjuster before mitigation begins — in fact, delaying cleanup can worsen the damage and complicate your claim. We document thoroughly so cleanup and your claim move forward together.

What not to do

• Don't wait "to see if it dries on its own" — hidden moisture causes mold within 24–48 hours.
• Don't use electrical devices in wet areas.
• Don't enter standing water that may be contaminated.