How Do You Safely Re-Enter a Home After a Flood?

Your safety comes first. Local authorities decide when it is safe to return, so listen to their guidance. If they say to stay out, stay out. Floodwater can hide downed power lines, sharp debris, and unstable floors.

Before entering, walk around the outside of the home. Look for sagging rooflines, cracks in the foundation, or leaning walls. If anything looks off, do not go inside. Call a building inspector or structural engineer to check it first.

• Turn off the main gas valve if you can reach it without wading into water.
• Shut off electricity at the breaker panel only if it is dry and elevated.
• Wear rubber boots, work gloves, and a dust mask.
• Bring a battery-powered flashlight, not a gas lantern.
• Keep a charged phone in a waterproof bag.
• Check for gas smell or hissing sounds before entering.

Floodwater can contaminate your drinking water. If your water comes from a well or you suspect any backflow, do not drink it until local authorities say it is safe. Boil water only if advised to do so.

Throw away any food that touched floodwater, including canned goods with damaged seals. Discard refrigerated items that lost power for more than four hours. When in doubt, toss it out. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure.

Some damage is too big for a homeowner to handle safely. If floodwater soaked drywall, insulation, or flooring, the pros can remove and dry those materials properly. They also have equipment to detect hidden moisture in walls.

If you see mold growing or smell a musty odor, a mold professional should assess the situation. In Cincinnati, you can find local water damage pros who handle flood cleanup. Their work usually involves extracting water, drying the structure, and cleaning affected surfaces.