Property Recovery Help
Emergency guide

What to do after discovering water damage

A practical checklist for the first minutes and hours.

  1. Check for danger. Do not enter standing water when electricity, sewage or structural hazards may be present.
  2. Stop the source. Close a fixture valve or main water line only if it is safe.
  3. Document before cleanup. Take wide shots and close-ups, plus a short video walk-through.
  4. Protect unaffected property. Move dry belongings away from spreading water where practical.
  5. Call your insurer. Ask about emergency mitigation and documentation requirements.
  6. Escalate when appropriate. Large losses, contaminated water, saturated walls/floors or hidden moisture can require professional mitigation.