Emergency Water Damage: Your First Steps

1. Stop the water

Know where your main water shut-off is before you need it — usually where the water line enters the house, often in the basement or utility room. Turn it clockwise to close.

2. Make the area safe

Keep people away from wet areas near electricity, and away from sagging ceilings that may be holding water.

3. Record the damage

Photos, video and a short written note of what happened and when are all useful later.

4. Begin limiting damage

• Mop or blot small amounts of clean water.
• Move rugs and furniture out of wet areas.
• Open interior doors to help air circulate if water is clean.

5. Contact your insurer and a restoration company

Your insurer can explain your coverage. A restoration company can remove water and dry the structure properly — something that is difficult to do with household equipment.