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What Is the First Thing to Do After Water Damage?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Stop the Water Source

Your first move is to stop the flow of water. If a pipe burst or a supply line leaked, shut off the main water valve. Know where that valve is before an emergency happens. If you live in Port St. Lucie, keep the shutoff valve location written down.

For appliance leaks, unplug the unit and turn off its water supply line. For roof leaks, place a bucket under the drip and try to contain the water. If the leak is from a storm, wait until it is safe to go outside. Safety always comes first.

Turn off Electricity for Safety

Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If water has reached outlets, appliances, or your electrical panel, turn off the power at the main breaker. Only do this if you can reach the breaker without standing in water. If you cannot, call an electrician.

Also turn off the circuit breakers for rooms with standing water or wet walls. Avoid touching any electrical device while wet. If you feel unwell or get a shock, see a doctor. Your safety matters more than saving belongings.

  • Shut off the main water valve first
  • Unplug appliances near the leak
  • Turn off electricity at the breaker if safe
  • Move valuable items to a dry area
  • Use towels to soak up small puddles
  • Call a plumber for burst pipes

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of everything before you move or throw anything away. Capture the water source, the affected rooms, and any damaged items. This documentation helps with your insurance claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Make a list of damaged belongings with approximate ages and values. Keep receipts for any emergency purchases like a dehumidifier or tarps. Do not throw away damaged items until your insurance company tells you it is okay. Documentation is your most sensible tool.

Start Drying Out the Area

The longer water sits, the more damage it causes. Use towels, mops, and a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water. Open windows and run fans to circulate air. Dehumidifiers help pull moisture from the air and speed up drying.

Remove wet carpets, rugs, and furniture that can trap moisture. Prop up wet cushions and remove baseboards if water soaked into the walls. For serious flooding, professional drying equipment may be needed. The pros can assess the extent and begin cleanup.

If you have a mold concern, act within 24 to 48 hours. Mold can grow quickly on wet surfaces. Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning. For large mold areas, a mold professional should handle it.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. Ask what your policy covers and what steps you need to take. They may require an inspection before you make permanent repairs. Check your policy for specific deadlines.

Keep a log of all communications with your insurer. Note the date, time, and who you spoke with. If you need help with the claim process, a public adjuster can assist, but that is your choice. The pros can handle the physical cleanup and repairs, not your claim.

  • Take photos before moving anything
  • Shut off water and electricity
  • Remove standing water quickly
  • Dry out wet areas with fans and dehumidifiers
  • Contact your insurance company
  • Check your policy for coverage details

Need help right now?

Call (772) 758-7923 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

How soon should I start drying after water damage?

Start drying within the first few hours if possible. The faster you remove standing water and increase airflow, the less damage you will have. Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours, so act quickly.

Should I throw away wet carpet right away?

Do not throw away anything until you document it with photos. If the carpet is soaked and cannot be dried within a day or two, it may need to be removed. Your insurance company will guide you on what to keep.

Can I clean up water damage myself?

Small spills you can handle yourself. For large floods, contaminated water, or water that soaked into walls and insulation, professional help is safer. The pros have equipment to dry and assess structural damage. Your safety comes first.

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