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What Is the First Thing to Do After a Home Floods?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

Before you touch anything, make sure the area is safe. If there is standing water, assume it could be electrified. Turn off the power at the main breaker only if you can reach it without stepping into water. If you cannot, call a professional electrician to do it.

Also, check for gas leaks or structural damage. If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave the home and call the gas company from outside. Do not enter a room where the ceiling is sagging or walls are bulging. Your safety matters more than saving belongings.

Stop the Water Source

Once it is safe, find the main water shutoff valve and close it. This stops the flow if the flood came from a burst pipe or appliance leak. If the flooding is from rain or rising water, you may not be able to stop it, but you can still shut off water to prevent additional issues.

If you live in St. Petersburg, keep your shutoff valve location written down and easy to find. That way, you can act quickly during an emergency. Also, turn off the water heater and any other appliances that use water to avoid damage.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of everything before you start cleaning. Capture the water level, damaged items, and any visible structural issues. This documentation helps with insurance claims and gives you a record of what happened.

Do not throw anything away until you have documented it. Even soaked carpets and furniture can be photographed first. Your insurance company may want to see the extent of the damage. Keep a list of every affected item as you go.

Remove Water and Wet Items

Start removing standing water as soon as it is safe. Use a wet/dry vacuum, mop, or buckets. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes, so act quickly. Move wet rugs, furniture, and boxes to a dry area if possible.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Do not throw anything away until you have documented it. Even soaked carpets and furniture can be photographed first. Your insurance company may want to see the extent of the damage. Keep a list of every affected item as you go.

  • Wear rubber boots and gloves
  • Turn off electricity first
  • Photograph everything
  • Remove water quickly
  • Lift wet carpets
  • Open windows for airflow

Call the Pros

After you have done what you can safely, contact local water damage pros to handle the cleanup. They have the equipment and knowledge to dry your home thoroughly and prevent mold. Do not try to do everything yourself, especially if the water is contaminated or the flooding is extensive.

Professional help usually involves water extraction, drying, and sanitizing. They can also inspect for hidden damage in walls and floors. The cost depends on the extent of the damage and the time needed. Acting fast can reduce the overall impact.

  • Water extraction
  • Structural drying
  • Mold prevention
  • Content cleaning
  • Damage assessment

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Call (727) 308-5518 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

How soon should I start cleaning up?

Start as soon as it is safe. The first 24 to 48 hours are critical for drying. Mold can begin growing within that time, so removing water and wet materials quickly helps reduce damage. Even if you wait for pros, do what you can immediately.

Can I use my regular vacuum to suck up water?

No, a regular vacuum is not designed for water and can be dangerous. Use a wet/dry vacuum or a pump. If you do not have one, you can use buckets and mops. Never use electrical appliances near standing water.

What should I do with soaked furniture?

Move it to a dry area if you can, and remove cushions and pillows. Do not try to dry it with heat, as that can cause warping. Let it air dry and consider whether it is worth saving. If it smells musty or shows mold, it may need to be thrown out.

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