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What Should You Do in the First Hour After a Flood?

Last updated October 23, 2026

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The short answer

Ensure Your Personal Safety First

The first hour after a flood is critical for preventing injury. Do not enter standing water if you suspect any electrical hazard. If the flooding is from a broken pipe, locate your main water shutoff valve to stop the flow. For a natural flood, be aware that water can be contaminated and pose health risks.

Wear protective clothing like rubber boots and gloves if you must move through water. If you feel lightheaded or unwell, leave the area immediately and see a doctor. Secure children and pets away from the flooded zone. Your safety is more important than saving property in these initial moments.

Stop Further Water Intrusion

Your goal is to prevent more water from entering your home. For internal leaks, this means shutting off the water supply at the main valve. If the flood is from weather, use sandbags, towels, or tarps to block doorways if it is safe to do so. Do not attempt roof repairs during a storm.

If you cannot stop the water, call a plumber. For a broken appliance line, turn off the water to that specific fixture. Once the flow is controlled, you can address the water that is already inside. It helps to know the location of your main shutoff valve before an emergency happens.

  • Locate and turn your main water shutoff valve.
  • For appliance leaks, use the fixture's individual shutoff.
  • Use towels, buckets, or a wet-dry vacuum for minor leaks.
  • Do not attempt electrical repairs yourself.
  • If water is from a storm, protect openings with barriers.
  • Document the source with photos for your records.

Protect Your Home and Belongings

Move what you can to a dry area. Start with valuable items, important documents, and furniture that is not yet soaked. Place aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent staining dry carpets. If safe, remove area rugs from standing water to halt dye transfer.

Do not use your household vacuum to remove water. Lift draperies out of the water and loop them over the rod. This first hour is about damage mitigation, not full cleanup. The priority is to make the environment safer for when the pros begin their work.

Begin Documentation for Insurance

Take clear photographs and videos of all damage, including the water source and water levels. Capture damaged belongings, structural issues, and the overall scope. This visual evidence is crucial when you file your insurance claim. Make a written list of damaged items as best you can.

Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep all receipts for any expenses related to the incident, such as temporary accommodations or supplies. Do not dispose of damaged items until an adjuster has seen them.

Contact the Right Professionals

After securing safety and stopping the water, call local water damage pros. They have the equipment to extract water, dry structures, and prevent mold. Do not wait, as mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours in a warm, humid environment.

Also call other trades if needed. A plumber fixes broken pipes. An electrician should check wiring before power is restored. The pros will assess the damage, outline the necessary drying process, and explain the steps involved in restoration. Your role is to facilitate their access and follow their safety guidance.

  • Call local water damage pros for drying and extraction.
  • Contact a plumber for pipe repairs.
  • Have an electrician inspect before restoring power.
  • A roofer may be needed for storm-related leaks.
  • Keep a log of all professional contacts and visits.
  • Ask the pros about their planned drying timeline.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I try to clean up the water myself?

You can remove small amounts of water with towels or a mop. For significant flooding, professional extraction equipment is necessary to dry walls and floors properly. Attempting a major cleanup yourself often leaves hidden moisture that leads to mold and structural damage.

What if the floodwater is contaminated?

Assume water from sewage backups or outside ground is contaminated. Avoid contact and do not use household fans, as they can aerosolize contaminants. This requires specialized cleanup by the pros, who follow protocols for biohazard situations. Always wash thoroughly if you touch it.

How long does the drying process take?

Drying typically takes three to five days with professional equipment, but it depends on the amount of water, materials affected, and indoor humidity. The pros use meters to confirm materials are dry before starting any repairs. Rushing this step risks future mold problems.

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