What to Do After Water Damage

Water damage checklist

1. Protect people. Stay away from electrical hazards, unstable ceilings, contaminated water and other unsafe conditions.
2. Stop ongoing water. Shut off the relevant fixture or supply when safe.
3. Document the loss. Take photos and notes before major cleanup when practical.
4. Remove standing water. Use safe methods appropriate to the amount and source of water.
5. Identify wet materials. Check beyond what is visibly wet.
6. Dry the area. Larger or concealed moisture problems may need professional drying equipment.
7. Plan cleanup and repairs. Do not close walls or install finishes over materials that are still wet.

Choose the next guide

For active standing water, go to emergency water removal. For a plumbing failure, see burst pipe water damage. For contaminated wastewater, see sewage backup cleanup.