The short answer
Safety First
Before you do anything else, make sure the area is safe to enter. Floodwater can hide sharp objects, electrical hazards, and contaminants. If the power is on and water is near outlets or appliances, shut off the main breaker if you can do so without stepping into water.
Wear rubber boots and gloves to protect yourself. If you feel unwell or notice a strong sewage smell, leave the area and see a doctor if needed. Never wade through moving water, and keep children and pets away from the flooded bay until it is dry.
Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of the flooded bay from every angle before you move anything. Capture the water level, any damaged items, and the overall condition. This record helps your insurance company understand what happened and what you lost.
Write down the date and time the flood started and any actions you took. Keep receipts for any supplies you buy, like pumps or cleaning products. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so check your policy and contact them as soon as you can.
- Photograph the water line and all affected items
- List damaged belongings and their approximate age
- Note the source of the flood if you know it
- Save any receipts for cleanup supplies
- Keep a log of your actions and conversations
Start Water Removal
Once you have documented the scene, begin removing standing water if it is safe. A wet-dry vacuum can handle small amounts. For deeper water, you may need to wait for professional equipment. Acting quickly helps prevent further damage to walls and floors.
As the water level drops, use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying. Open windows if the weather allows. Remember that floodwater may have soaked into drywall and insulation, so you might need to remove damaged materials to let the structure dry properly.
Clean and Disinfect
Floodwater often carries mud, debris, and bacteria. After the water is gone, clean all surfaces with soap and water, then disinfect with a bleach solution or a commercial disinfectant. Pay special attention to floors, walls, and any items that touched the water.
Throw away porous items like carpets, upholstered furniture, and mattresses that cannot be thoroughly cleaned. Non-porous items like metal and plastic can often be saved. Dry everything completely to reduce the risk of mold growth, which can start within a day or two.
When to Call the Pros
If the flood covered more than a few inches, or if the water sat for more than a day, call local water damage pros. They have industrial pumps, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to extract water and dry the structure thoroughly. They also know how to handle contaminated water safely.
A water damage inspection can reveal hidden moisture in walls and floors. Structural drying and dehumidification may be needed to prevent rot and mold. If you live in a coastal area, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can stop future leaks quickly.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry a flooded bay?
Drying time depends on the amount of water, the materials, and the ventilation. With fans and dehumidifiers, a small bay may dry in a few days, but soaked drywall and insulation can take longer. Professionals use moisture meters to confirm when it is fully dry.
Can I clean up the flood myself?
For minor spills with clean water, you can handle it yourself with mops and fans. But if the water is from a storm or sewer, it may contain contaminants. Large floods require professional extraction to avoid hidden damage and health risks.
What should I do with wet drywall?
Drywall that has been soaked usually needs to be removed and replaced, especially if it is contaminated. Cut it above the water line to inspect the extent of the damage. A professional can help determine what is salvageable and what must go.