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How serious is your water damage?
Tick what you can see. Safety first: if water is near outlets, cords or the electrical panel, stay out of it. Nothing is saved or sent.
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Nothing ticked yet. Hidden water inside walls or under floors can still cause problems later.
Ask a questionGeneral guidance only. This is not an inspection or a repair quote.
Water in the house? Do these in order
- Stay safe. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity only if it is safe to do so (FEMA).
- Stop the water if you can. Shut off the main water valve or the valve for the fixture that is leaking.
- Take photos. Photograph the damage and anything destroyed before you move things, for your insurance company (FEMA).
- Move what you can. Lift furniture legs, move rugs, electronics and papers out of the wet area.
- Dirty water is different. If it may be sewage, don't use fans, keep kids and pets away, and let a professional handle it (EPA).
- Check your policy. Look at your deductible and what your insurance company asks you to do, then decide whether to report it.
Sources: FEMA: Returning Home After the Flood ยท EPA mold remediation guide, chapter 4. General guidance, not legal or insurance advice. Emergency Water Mitigation does not handle insurance claims.