The short answer
Safety First
Your first step is to protect yourself and your family. If the floodwater comes from a burst pipe, shut off the main water valve. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power at the breaker panel, but only if you can do so without standing in water. If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave the house and call the gas company from outside.
Avoid wading in floodwater if you can. It may hide sharp objects, chemicals, or sewage. Wear rubber boots and gloves if you must enter. If anyone feels unwell, dizzy, or has trouble breathing, see a doctor right away. Keep children and pets away from the flooded area until it is dry and cleaned.
- Shut off the main water valve
- Turn off electricity at the breaker
- Wear rubber boots and gloves
- Keep kids and pets out of the water
- Leave if you smell gas
- See a doctor if you feel unwell
Stop the Water Source
Once you are safe, find where the water is coming from. If it is a broken pipe, shut off the water at the main valve, usually near the water meter or where the pipe enters the house. If the flood is from rain or a rising river, you may not be able to stop it, but you can move items to higher floors.
If you live in Cincinnati, keep the location of your shutoff valve written down and easy to find. This simple step can save time during an emergency. For a burst pipe or a broken appliance, you may need a plumber to make repairs before cleanup can begin. Check your policy to see what is covered.
Document the Damage
Before you move anything or start cleaning, take photos and videos of the flooded rooms. Capture the water level, damaged furniture, soaked carpets, and any visible stains. This documentation helps your insurance claim. Keep a list of damaged items and their approximate age or value.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the flood. Ask what they need from you, such as photos or an item list. Do not throw away damaged items until you have documented them, unless they are a health hazard.
Remove Standing Water
Start removing water as quickly as you can. Use a wet vacuum, a sump pump, or a bucket and mop for small areas. The longer water sits, the more damage it does to floors, walls, and furniture. Open windows and doors to let air circulate, but avoid using electrical equipment in wet areas.
For large floods, a pump may be needed to lower the water level. If the water is deep or the flooding is severe, do not try to handle it alone. The pros have the right equipment and safety gear. They can handle the heavy lifting and drying process.
- Use a wet vacuum or pump
- Open windows and doors for airflow
- Move wet rugs and furniture outside
- Wear a mask to avoid dust and mold spores
- Do not use electrical tools in water
- Call for help if the water is deep
Drying and Cleanup
After removing the water, focus on drying the area. Use fans and dehumidifiers to pull moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Remove wet carpet, padding, and drywall if they are soaked, as they can grow mold quickly. Dispose of items that cannot be cleaned, like mattresses or upholstered furniture.
Clean hard surfaces with a mild detergent and water. Disinfect areas that had sewage or contaminated water. Drying can take days, and mold can start within 24 to 48 hours. If you are unsure about how to dry your home properly, the pros can help with inspection and drying services.
Talk to someone now
Call (513) 854-7491 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (513) 854-7491Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for mold to grow after a flood?
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. That is why it is important to dry wet areas quickly. Remove soaked materials like carpet and drywall as soon as possible. If you see or smell mold, contact a mold professional to handle it safely.
Should I turn off the electricity during a flood?
Yes, if it is safe to do so. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Turn off the power at the breaker panel, but only if you are not standing in water. If you cannot reach the panel safely, call an electrician for help before entering the flooded area.
Can I clean up the flood myself?
You can handle small spills with a wet vacuum and fans. But large floods often need professional equipment to dry walls and floors completely. If the water came from sewage or contains chemicals, do not attempt cleanup yourself. Call the pros for safe removal and drying.
More questions and answers
- How Do Spring Floods Differ From Storm Flash Floods?
- Why Is Hurricane Damage Harder to Restore Than Floods?
- What Should I Do First When a Pipe Bursts?
- Can a Frozen Pipe Burst Without Cracking First?
- What Should You Do in the First Hour After a Water Disaster?
- What Is the First Step in Every Damage Restoration Job?
- All articles