What Should I Do in the First 30 Minutes After a Water Leak?

Your first and most critical priority is to shut off the leak's source. For a burst pipe, find your home's main water shutoff valve, which is often located where the main water line enters the house, in a basement, or near the water heater. A leaking appliance, like a washing machine or dishwasher, requires turning off its specific water supply line, usually found behind the unit. If water contacts any outlets, lights, or appliances, cut power at your breaker box. This prevents dangerous electrical shock. Do not walk through standing water if you suspect any electrical risk.

Begin soaking up water with towels, mops, or a wet-dry vacuum. Lift wet rugs and move furniture to a dry area. Open windows and doors if outdoor air is dry, and use fans to circulate air. This initial drying effort slows the spread of water and helps reduce the chance of mold taking hold quickly. Be thorough in corners and under furniture where water can pool unnoticed. This step buys time before the pros can start their detailed drying process.

• Use towels, mops, or a wet-dry vacuum on standing water.
• Lift and drape rugs over a clothesline or railing outside.
• Place wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs.
• Open windows and doors to improve ventilation.
• Set up fans to blow air across damp surfaces.
• Wring out soaked towels in a sink or bathtub.

Remove electronics, books, and important documents from the wet area. Wipe down items that got splashed. Avoid contact with water that may be contaminated from a sewage backup or outdoor flooding. Wear rubber gloves and boots if you must wade through it. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure to dirty water. For porous items like upholstered furniture, lifting them off wet carpet can prevent secondary damage. Move valuables to a completely dry, safe location to protect them from humidity.