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Boca Ciega Bay Water ResponseWater Damage Help · St. Petersburg, FL

What Should I Do Immediately After My House Floods?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First Steps

Your first job is to keep everyone safe. Turn off the power at the main breaker only if the breaker panel is dry and you can reach it without standing in water. If you must step into water, do not touch anything electrical. Call an electrician if you have any doubt about the panel.

Next, shut off the main water valve to stop more water from entering. If the flood came from rain or a rising river, the water may already be off. Also, check for gas leaks by smell. If you smell gas, leave the house and call the gas utility from outside.

  • Wear rubber boots and gloves
  • Avoid floodwater if it may contain sewage
  • Keep children and pets out of the area
  • Do not use electrical appliances near water
  • Open windows for ventilation if safe

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of every wet area before you move anything. Capture the water level lines on walls, soaked carpets, furniture, and electronics. This record helps your insurance company understand the extent of the loss. Do not throw anything away until your insurer has seen it.

Make a written list of damaged items with approximate ages and values. Note the make and model of appliances. This list will speed up your claim process. Keep receipts for any cleaning supplies or materials you buy later, as they may be part of your claim.

  • Photograph each room from multiple angles
  • Record water depth with a ruler
  • List each damaged item separately
  • Note the date and time of each photo
  • Save samples of carpet and padding

Protect Your Belongings

Move valuable items like photo albums, important documents, and electronics to a dry, elevated place. If you have a second floor, take them there. For furniture, try to lift it onto blocks or bricks to keep it out of the water. This may prevent further damage and make cleanup easier.

Do not try to wash or clean soaked items yet. Some materials, like drywall and insulation, must be removed and replaced. Others, like glass and metal, can often be saved. Focus on removing what is most precious to you and keeping it dry.

  • Store documents in a waterproof container
  • Separate wet clothing for washing later
  • Remove area rugs and hang them to dry
  • Lift upholstered furniture off the floor
  • Do not turn on wet electronics

Call Your Insurance

Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the flood. They will give you a claim number and explain what to document. Ask about coverage for temporary housing if your home is unlivable. Keep notes of every call, including the date, time, and who you spoke with.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some flood damage is covered by standard homeowners policies, but separate flood insurance is often needed. Check your policy documents to understand your coverage. Do not assume anything is covered until you hear from your insurer.

  • Get a claim number immediately
  • Ask about coverage for temporary lodging
  • Take notes during every phone call
  • Ask what documentation is required
  • Ask about deadlines for filing paperwork

Contact Local Pros

Once you have documented the damage and called your insurer, reach out to local water damage pros for help. They have the equipment to extract standing water, dry out walls and floors, and prevent mold growth. Acting quickly reduces the chance of secondary damage like rot and mildew.

If you live in St. Petersburg, keep your shutoff valve location written down for future floods. The humid subtropical climate here means mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours. The pros can set up industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry your home thoroughly.

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Phones are answered 24/7 for St. Petersburg and nearby communities.

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Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to start cleanup?

You should start removing water and drying out your home within 24 hours if possible. Mold can begin growing quickly in warm, damp conditions. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes to walls, floors, and personal belongings.

Is it safe to stay in my house after a flood?

It depends on the water source and how deep it got. Floodwater can contain sewage, chemicals, and debris. If the water was contaminated or the electrical system was affected, it may be safer to stay elsewhere. See a doctor if you feel unwell.

What should I do with wet drywall?

Do not try to dry out wet drywall. It will swell, crumble, and grow mold. Cut away the damaged sections and dispose of them. The pros can assess how much needs to be removed and replace it with new drywall.

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