Water Damage First Response

Emergency Guide

Use these safety-first steps to reduce confusion, preserve information, and start a clear incident record.

If there is immediate danger

If there is fire, electrical risk, structural risk, injury risk, gas smell, sparks, or any immediate danger, leave the area and call 911 or local emergency services.

Step 1 — Check Your Safety First

If you smell gas, see sparks, or hear unusual electrical sounds, leave the area and call 911 before doing anything else.
If standing water is anywhere near an electrical outlet, panel, or plugged-in appliance, do not enter that area or touch the water. If it is safe, turn off electricity to the affected area at the breaker.
If the water may be contaminated, avoid direct contact and keep children and pets away.

Step 2 — Stop the Source, If It Is Safe To Do So

If the leak is from a supply line, appliance, or fixture, and you can safely reach it, shut off the water at that fixture's shutoff valve.
If you cannot isolate the source, or the leak is severe, shut off your home's main water valve.
If you do not know where the main water valve is, note it for next time, but do not spend long searching while water is actively causing damage.

Step 3 — Document Before You Move Anything

Take wide photos or video of the affected area first, before cleaning up or moving items.
Then take close-up photos of specific damage: flooring, walls, ceilings, furniture, and electronics.
Include something that shows scale or location so the photos are easy to understand later.
Note the date and time you discovered the damage.
Try not to throw anything away yet. Your insurer or a professional may need to see it.

Step 4 — Start Your Record and Reach Out

Save photos, video, and notes in one place. This becomes your case record.
Contact your insurance company to report the incident and ask about next steps and coverage.
If you need help with repairs, contact a contractor of your choice. PHI does not perform repairs or recommend a specific contractor.
If you want help organizing your case, PHI can help build a Timeline and Evidence record.

Important boundary

PHI is an information and documentation platform.

PHI is not a contractor, public adjuster, insurance company, insurance agent, or law firm. PHI does not provide legal, insurance, or construction advice.

Emergency guidance is general safety information only. If there is immediate danger, fire, electrical risk, structural risk, or injury risk, call 911 or local emergency services.