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What Should I Do While Waiting for Help After Basement Floods?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Ensure Immediate Safety First

Your personal safety is the top priority. Do not enter a flooded basement if you suspect any electrical hazard, such as submerged outlets or appliances. If safe to do so, turn off the electricity to the basement at your home's main circuit breaker. If the water is deep or the source is unknown, wait outside for the pros to secure the area before you enter.

Avoid contact with the water, as it may be contaminated with sewage or chemicals from the home. Wear rubber boots and gloves if you must walk through the area. Keep children and pets completely away from the flooded space. If you have any concerns about air quality or feel unwell, move to fresh air and consider seeing a doctor.

Stop the Water Source

If you can safely identify and access the source of the water, try to stop it. For a burst pipe, locate your home's main water shutoff valve and turn it clockwise to close it. If the flooding is from heavy rain, you may not be able to stop it, but you can place sandbags or towels at doorways to limit spread. Knowing your shutoff valve location is crucial for any homeowner.

If the flood is from a sewer backup or an overflowing appliance, avoid using any plumbing fixtures in the home. Do not flush toilets, run sinks, or use the washing machine. This prevents adding more water to an already compromised drainage system. Knowing your shutoff valve location in advance helps you act quickly if a leak occurs.

  • Locate and turn off your main water shutoff valve.
  • For appliance leaks, turn off the water supply line to that unit.
  • Do not use any sinks, toilets, or showers during a sewer backup.
  • Place towels, rags, or sandbags at doorways to contain water.
  • If the source is a roof leak, place buckets in the attic if accessible.
  • Avoid trying to repair major plumbing breaks yourself.

Document the Damage Thoroughly

Use your phone or camera to take clear, well-lit photos and videos of all affected areas before you move anything. Capture the water level, damaged possessions, and the apparent source if visible. This visual evidence is important for your insurance claim. Do not discard damaged items until an insurance adjuster or the water damage pros have assessed the situation, unless they pose a safety hazard.

Begin Careful Water Removal

If it is safe and the water is shallow, you can start removing standing water. Use a wet-dry vacuum specifically designed for water, a mop, or a pump. Never use a standard household vacuum cleaner, as this poses a severe electrical shock risk. The goal is to reduce the total volume of water before the pros begin their detailed assessment and drying procedures.

Move saturated rugs and carpets outside if you can do so safely. Dragging a waterlogged rug can be very heavy and may cause injury or further damage. Once outside, drape them over a railing or chairs to begin air drying. Leave large furniture items in place for the pros to assess.

Protect Your Belongings and Home

Move any undamaged, valuable items from the basement to a dry, upper floor. This includes electronics, important documents, furniture, and sentimental items. For furniture that cannot be moved, place aluminum foil or wood blocks under the legs to prevent staining on carpets and to allow air circulation. Lift draperies off wet floors by hooking them over the curtain rod to prevent wicking moisture up the fabric.

Increase air circulation by opening windows and doors if weather permits and if doing so won't let in more water. Use fans to blow air across the room, but only if there is no electrical hazard. Do not use heating systems to try to dry the area, as this can spread moisture and mold spores. The pros use industrial equipment for controlled, thorough drying.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I start cleaning up the water myself?

You can remove shallow, clean water if it is safe, using proper equipment like a wet-dry vacuum. Avoid contact with any water that may be contaminated. Leave deep flooding or water near electrical sources for the pros. Your initial efforts can help minimize secondary damage before their detailed work begins.

Should I call my insurance company right away?

Yes, you should contact your insurance company promptly to start the claims process. Provide them with the photos and documentation you have gathered. Be prepared to discuss the cause and extent of the damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

What items should I avoid touching after a flood?

Avoid touching any electrical appliances, outlets, or circuit breakers that are wet. Do not handle items contaminated by sewage, such as from a backup. Leave heavily damaged structural materials, like sagging drywall or ceilings, undisturbed. If you are unsure, it is safer to wait for professional assessment.

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