What Should I Do First After a House Flood?

Before addressing water or belongings, confirm all household members and pets are safe. Do not enter flooded areas if you suspect any electrical hazard, such as submerged outlets or fallen power lines. If the flooding is from a storm or sewer backup, assume the water is contaminated and avoid contact. Your personal safety is more important than saving property in these first critical moments.

Evacuate to a dry, safe location if the structure seems unstable or if instructed by authorities. Keep children and pets away from the affected area. If you must walk through water to evacuate, wear rubber boots for protection. Remember, swift water from a burst pipe or external flooding can create slip and trip hazards even indoors.

Use your phone or camera to take clear photos and videos of all affected areas and damaged items before any cleanup begins. Capture water levels, ruined furniture, soaked carpets, and any structural issues. This visual evidence is crucial for your insurance claim and helps the pros understand the full scope of the damage when they assess your home.

Make a written list of damaged possessions, noting brands, models, and approximate ages if you can. Do not throw anything away until an insurance adjuster has seen it, unless it poses a health hazard. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep all receipts for any emergency purchases like tarps or cleaning supplies, as these may be reimbursable.

Avoid using household vacuums to remove water, as this can cause electrical shock and damage the appliance. Do not use electrical appliances or turn on lights in wet areas until an electrician has verified the system is safe. Refrain from using harsh chemicals or bleach for initial cleanup, as mixing certain substances with contaminated floodwater can create dangerous fumes.

Do not attempt major repairs like removing drywall or flooring yourself before a professional inspection. Disturbing saturated materials can release contaminants or cause hidden structural issues to worsen. Leave the extensive water extraction, moisture mapping, and drying to the pros. Their assessment ensures the job is done thoroughly, protecting your home from long-term problems like mold and wood rot.

• Never enter a flooded basement if the electricity is not confirmed off.
• Avoid using a standard household vacuum cleaner to suck up standing water.
• Do not turn on HVAC systems if ductwork or units may be wet.
• Discard any food or medicines that came into contact with floodwater.
• Stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Wait for a professional assessment before discarding major damaged items.