The short answer
Shut off Power and Water First
Your first move is to cut power to the data center at the main breaker if it is safe to do so. Water and electricity are a deadly mix, so do not step into standing water until you are certain the power is off. If you cannot reach the breaker without wading, call the power company and wait outside.
Next, locate the main water shutoff valve and turn it off to stop the flow. Knowing your valve location ahead of time helps during an emergency. If the flood came from a burst pipe, shutting off the water limits further damage. Keep a flashlight and gloves nearby for safety.
Protect Equipment and Data
Move servers, switches, and storage devices to dry, elevated areas if you can do so without risking injury. Unplug everything that is not already disconnected. Remove hard drives and backup tapes if they are accessible, and store them in sealed plastic bags to keep out moisture.
Do not power on any equipment that got wet until a professional has inspected it. Water can cause short circuits that destroy components and create fire risks. If you have off-site backups, check that they are safe. Your priority is preserving data, not saving hardware that may be beyond repair.
- Shut down all non-essential systems before water reaches them
- Use plastic sheeting or tarps to cover equipment that cannot be moved
- Keep a detailed inventory of every piece of equipment and its condition
- Label wet items clearly so you do not accidentally reuse them
- Take photos of the scene for your insurance records
Call the Pros for Water Extraction
Local water damage pros have industrial pumps and vacuums that remove standing water quickly. They also use moisture meters to find hidden water in walls, under floors, and inside equipment housings. The pros will set up drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers to pull moisture from the air and surfaces.
Do not attempt to dry the space with household fans or heaters, as these can spread moisture and cause mold growth. The pros follow a structured process that includes extraction, structural drying, and monitoring. In humid climates, thorough drying is essential to prevent secondary damage like rust and corrosion.
- Ask the pros to check for water in raised floors and cable trays
- Request a moisture map to identify all affected areas
- Ensure they document the drying process for your insurance claim
- Keep the pros away from any equipment that is still powered on
Dry the Building Structure
After standing water is removed, the building structure itself needs drying. Walls, insulation, and concrete floors can hold moisture for weeks if not treated. The pros use dehumidifiers and desiccant systems to lower humidity levels and prevent mold from taking hold.
Structural drying usually takes several days, depending on the extent of the flood. You may need to run the drying equipment continuously until moisture readings drop to safe levels. Do not rush this step, as trapped moisture can lead to long-term damage to electrical systems and building materials.
Document Everything for Insurance
Take photos and videos of the flood damage before any cleanup begins. Keep receipts for any equipment you replace and for services you pay for. Write down the date and time of the flood, and note the water source if you know it. This information helps your insurance company assess your claim.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if flood damage from storms or burst pipes is included. Do not throw away damaged items until your insurer has had a chance to inspect them. If you are unsure about coverage, ask your insurance company directly before making major decisions.
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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
Should I try to dry wet servers with a hair dryer?
No. Hair dryers and household fans can push moisture deeper into electronics and create static electricity. Let the pros handle drying with specialized equipment. Do not power on wet electronics until they have been inspected and dried by a professional.
How long does it take to dry out a data center after a flood?
Drying time depends on the amount of water, the building materials, and the humidity in the air. In humid climates, it can take several days to a week or more. The pros will monitor moisture levels and tell you when it is safe to reoccupy the space.
Can I claim flood damage on my business insurance?
Check your policy, because flood coverage varies widely. Some policies cover water damage from burst pipes but not from rising floodwater. Your insurer decides what is covered. Document all damage and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.