What to Do Step by Step if Your House Floods and When to Reach Out for Help

Flooding in your home can happen suddenly and cause serious damage. Knowing what to do immediately can protect your family, reduce damage, and speed up recovery. This guide walks you through clear, practical steps to take if your house floods. It also explains when to reach out for professional help to make sure you get the support you need.

Flooded living room with water covering floor and furniture

Step 1. Ensure Safety First

When floodwaters enter your home, your first priority must be safety. Water can hide electrical hazards, structural damage, and contamination.

• Avoid walking through floodwater if possible. It may contain sewage, chemicals, or sharp objects.

• Turn off electricity at the main breaker if you can safely reach it without stepping into water.

• Keep children and pets away from flooded areas.

• If flooding is severe or rising quickly, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

  
  

Taking these precautions helps prevent injury or worse during the initial flood event.

Step 2. Document the Damage

Once it is safe to enter your home, start documenting the damage for insurance and repair purposes.

• Take clear photos and videos of all affected rooms, furniture, appliances, and personal items.

• Make a list of damaged or lost items with approximate values.

• Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or purchases related to the flood.

  
  

This documentation will support your insurance claim and help you track what needs repair or replacement.

Step 3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the flood damage.

• Provide your documentation and follow their instructions for filing a claim.

• Ask about coverage details, including what repairs and replacements are included.

• Keep a record of all communications with your insurer.

  
  

Early contact helps speed up the claims process and ensures you get the financial support you need.

Step 4. Remove Water and Dry Out Your Home

Removing standing water and drying your home quickly reduces the risk of mold and further damage.

• Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, or buckets to remove water.

• Open windows and doors to increase airflow.

• Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry walls, floors, and furniture.

• Remove wet carpets, rugs, and upholstery if possible.

  
  

If the flooding is extensive, consider hiring professional water damage restoration services to handle this step safely and thoroughly.

Step 5. Clean and Disinfect Affected Areas

Floodwater often carries bacteria and contaminants. Cleaning and disinfecting is essential to protect your health.

• Wear protective gloves and boots during cleanup.

• Use a mixture of water and household bleach (1 cup bleach per gallon of water) to disinfect floors, walls, and surfaces.

• Dispose of items that cannot be properly cleaned, such as soaked drywall or insulation.

• Wash all fabrics and clothing in hot water.

  
  

Proper cleaning helps prevent illness and prepares your home for repairs.

Step 6. Assess Structural Damage and Repairs

After cleanup, inspect your home for structural damage that may require professional repair.

• Check for cracks in walls, foundation shifts, or warped floors.

• Look for signs of mold growth inside walls or under floors.

• Test electrical outlets and appliances before use.

• Contact licensed contractors for major repairs or mold remediation.

  
  

Addressing structural issues early prevents long-term problems and ensures your home is safe to live in.

When to Reach Out for Help

Flood recovery can be overwhelming. Knowing when to ask for professional support can save time, money, and stress.

• If floodwaters are deep or contaminated, call water damage restoration experts.

• For electrical or structural damage, hire licensed electricians and contractors.

• If mold appears, contact mold remediation specialists.

• If you need guidance on insurance claims or legal matters, consult professionals experienced in flood damage.

  
  

We are here to provide more information and connect you with trusted local experts. Reach out anytime for advice or assistance tailored to your situation.