Water Damage Restoration
Standing water, a flooded basement, or a burst pipe? Learn how water damage restorat
In an emergency, act calmly
What to do right now - a calm, step-by-step plan
Take a breath. You can handle this one step at a time. Here's a calm, ordered plan for the first hour after water, fire, sewage, or storm damage. If life is in danger, call 911 first.
The first hour, step by step
Make sure everyone is safe
People come first. If anyone is hurt, if you smell gas, or if you see water near electrical outlets or wiring, leave the building and call 911. Don't go back inside until it's safe.
Stop the source, if you safely can
For water: shut off the main water valve. For a small contained fire that's already out: keep a window open for ventilation. Never enter standing water that may be near electricity, and never touch sewage with bare hands.
Turn off power to affected areas
If it's safe and dry to reach the breaker box, switch off power to flooded or damaged rooms. If you'd have to stand in water to reach it, don't - wait for a professional.
Protect what you can, gently
Move dry, valuable, and sentimental items to a safe area. Lift small furniture off wet floors. Don't risk your safety for belongings - most can be cleaned or replaced.
Document everything for insurance
Before you clean up, take photos and short videos of all the damage from several angles. Keep receipts for anything you buy. This makes your insurance claim far smoother later.
Call your insurer, then get matched
Report the loss to your insurance company. Then use our free Get Matched form to connect with certified restoration pros who respond 24/7 - the sooner drying and cleanup begin, the less damage spreads.
Find the right specialist for your emergency
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