Emergency Water Removal: What to Do Right Now
Water coming in? Work through this list, then call. Many local restoration companies answer nights and weekends.
Safety first. If water is near outlets, appliances or your electrical panel, don't walk through it. If the ceiling is sagging, stay out from under it. If you smell gas, leave and call the gas company.
The first-hour checklist
- Stop the waterClose the main shutoff valve. It's usually near the water heater, where the line enters the house, in the crawl space or at the meter by the street. For a single fixture, close the valve under it.
- Cut power to wet areasOnly if you can reach the breaker panel without standing in water.
- Document everythingPhotos and video of the water, the source and damaged belongings before cleanup.
- Protect what you canMove electronics, rugs, papers and furniture to dry ground. Put foil under furniture legs.
- Call for helpA restoration company for extraction and drying, and your insurance company to open a claim.
Where to find your main shutoff
- Crawl space homes: often just inside the crawl space access, near where the line comes in
- Basement homes: on the front wall facing the street
- Slab homes: near the water heater, in a garage or utility closet
- At the street: inside the meter box. A meter key or wrench may be needed.
What not to do
- Don't use a household vacuum on water.
- Don't turn on ceiling fixtures or fans if the ceiling is wet.
- Don't wait to see if it dries on its own. Trapped moisture is what leads to mold and rot.
- Don't throw away damaged items before you photograph them for insurance.
Next: the full after-water-damage checklist and what insurance usually covers.
Frequently asked questions
Should I call a plumber or a restoration company?
If a pipe is still leaking after you shut the water off, you may need a plumber to fix the line. A restoration company handles the water already in your home. Many restoration companies can recommend or coordinate with a plumber.
How quickly do emergency crews arrive?
It varies by company and time of day. Many local companies aim to arrive within a few hours for active water emergencies.
Water in your home? Get a local pro on the way.
Call and we'll connect you with an independent local water damage restoration company that serves your area. The referral is free, and many local companies answer around the clock.