Printable
Water damage emergency checklist
Print it, fill in the blanks, and tape it near your main water shutoff or water heater.
Safety first
- Water near outlets or the panel? Stay out. Call the electric utility.
- Gas smell? Leave and call 911 from outside.
- Sagging ceiling? Keep everyone out from under it.
- Sewage or floodwater? Gloves, boots, and keep kids and pets away.
Stop the water
- Main water shutoff is at: ____________________
- Turn it clockwise until it stops.
- Open the lowest faucet to drain the lines.
- Turn off the water heater (gas to pilot, or electric breaker off).
- Well? Turn off the well pump breaker.
Document
- Video walk-through of every wet room.
- Photos of the source and waterlines.
- Keep the failed part (hose, fitting, valve).
- Write down when you found it and what you did.
Call
- Insurance company and policy number: ____________________
- Water utility emergency line: ____________________
- Electric utility: ____________________
- Restoration help: ____________________
Start drying today
- Move electronics, papers and rugs to a dry floor.
- Foil or blocks under furniture legs.
- Fans and open windows where nothing electrical is wet.
- Professional drying should start within 24 to 48 hours.
From Local Water & Mold. General guidance only. If anyone is in danger, call 911.