The short answer
Why Flood Water Is Unsafe
Floodwater often picks up raw sewage, farm runoff, fuel, and industrial chemicals as it moves through streets and yards. When floodwater enters a municipal water system through broken pipes or backflow, it can push these contaminants into your home's taps. Even if the water looks clear, pathogens like E. Coli and hepatitis A can be present.
Private wells are especially at risk. A well can be contaminated even if the floodwater never visibly reached the pump house. Underground seepage can carry pollutants into the groundwater. Until a lab test confirms the water is clean, treat all water from the tap as unsafe for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or making ice.
What to Do Right After Flooding
Your first step is to listen for official announcements from your city or county about water safety. Local authorities will tell you when the water is safe to drink or when to use bottled water. For a private well, do not use it until a lab test confirms it is clean; your local health department can help you find a testing facility.
While waiting, use bottled water for all drinking and food preparation. If bottled water is not available, follow the emergency guidance from your local health officials about boiling or disinfecting water. Boiling kills most germs but does not remove heavy metals or chemicals, so it is not a complete fix.
- Throw away any food that may have touched floodwater, including sealed cans.
- Do not use tap water to wash produce or make baby formula.
- Keep a supply of bottled water for each person and pet for at least three days.
- If your water looks cloudy or smells odd, do not drink it even after boiling.
- Write down the date you last used the tap so you can tell your water authority.
How to Check Your Home's Pipes
After floodwater recedes, inspect your home's plumbing for visible damage. Look for cracks in pipes, loose fittings, or water stains on walls that suggest leaks. If you have a well, check the well cap and the electrical wiring for damage before turning anything on.
If you suspect your pipes were flooded, flush the system by running all cold water taps for at least five minutes. This helps push out any contaminated water that might be sitting in the lines. Do not flush hot water until you have confirmed the water heater is safe to use, as floodwater can leave sediment inside it.
When You Can Drink Again
Only drink tap water again after your local water authority gives the all-clear, or after your well test shows no contamination. For public systems, the authority will issue a boil water notice or a do not drink notice. Follow that notice exactly, as it tells you what is safe and what is not.
For private wells, you may need to shock the well with chlorine and flush the system, then retest. This process can take several days. Do not rely on taste or smell to decide if the water is safe, because many contaminants are odorless and colorless.
Cleaning Up After Flooding
Once the water is safe to drink, focus on cleaning and drying your home to prevent mold growth. Remove soaked carpets, drywall, and insulation promptly. Wear rubber boots, gloves, and a mask while cleaning, because floodwater leaves behind mud and bacteria that can be harmful.
For extensive flood damage, local water damage pros can handle the cleanup safely. They have the equipment to extract standing water, dry out walls and floors, and remove damaged materials. If you live in Rockwall, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can cut water quickly during future floods. The work usually involves a full inspection to see what can be saved.
- Remove all standing water with a pump or wet vacuum.
- Throw away any porous items that were soaked, like mattresses and pillows.
- Disinfect hard surfaces with a bleach solution after cleaning.
- Run fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying.
- Check for hidden moisture in crawlspaces and wall cavities.
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Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
Can I boil floodwater to make it safe?
Boiling kills most bacteria and viruses, but it does not remove chemicals, heavy metals, or fuel residues. If your water authority issues a boil water notice, follow their instructions. For private wells, boiling is not enough. You need a lab test to confirm the water is safe.
How long should I wait before drinking tap water?
Wait until your local water authority lifts the boil water notice or do not drink notice. For private wells, wait until the test results show no contamination. This can take a few days or longer. Do not guess based on taste or smell.
What if my well is flooded?
Stop using the well immediately. Do not pump water until the floodwater recedes and you can inspect the system. Have the water tested by a lab that your local health department recommends. You may need to shock the well with chlorine and flush it, then retest before it is safe to drink.