The First 60 Minutes After Water Damage

What you do right now affects both the final repair cost and how smooth your insurance claim will be. Here’s the order that matters most.

0-10 minutes: Safety first

If water is near outlets, panels, or any electrical appliance, don’t enter the area — shut off power at the breaker if you can do so safely from a dry spot. If in doubt, wait for a professional.

10-20 minutes: Stop the source

Shut off the main water valve or the specific fixture’s shutoff if you can identify it. For appliance leaks, unplug and disconnect the water line if safe.

20-35 minutes: Document

Take photos and video of everything — the source, the spread, affected belongings — before you move anything. This protects your insurance claim later.

35-50 minutes: Remove what you can safely move

Get furniture, rugs, and electronics out of standing water if it’s safe. Don’t lift heavy waterlogged items alone.

50-60 minutes: Get connected with a restoration crew

The faster a professional crew starts extraction and drying, the lower the chance of mold and structural damage. Request help now and we’ll connect you with an available, licensed crew in your area.