BEFORE WE ARRIVE
What to Do in the First Hour of a Water Leak
- Stop the water. Shut off the main valve or the valve for the fixture or appliance that's leaking.
- Cut power to wet areas if you can reach the breaker safely. Don't walk through standing water near outlets or cords.
- Move what you can. Set furniture legs on foil or blocks, and get electronics, rugs and papers out of the room.
- Take photos and video before anything is moved or thrown out. Your insurance claim will need them.
- Call a restoration company. Mold can start in 24 to 48 hours, so drying should start the same day.
- Skip the household vacuum and leave ceiling fans and lights off if the ceiling is wet or sagging.





