The short answer
Check Your Water Source
First, determine if the water damage affected your home's plumbing or the municipal supply. If your pipes were breached or flooded, contaminants like dirt, sewage, or chemicals could enter your water lines. Turn off your main shutoff valve immediately to prevent drawing unsafe water into your fixtures.
If the damage was from a roof leak or appliance overflow, your water supply may still be safe, but you should still test it. Look for discoloration, odd smells, or a metallic taste. When in doubt, treat the water as unsafe until you have clear information.
- Turn off your main water shutoff valve
- Run taps briefly to flush lines after valve is off
- Check for discoloration or odor in a glass of water
- Listen for hissing sounds that might indicate a pipe break
- Keep your shutoff valve location written down
Use Safe Water for Drinking
Until your water is confirmed safe, use bottled water for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and making ice. Boiling tap water for one minute can kill most bacteria, but it does not remove chemicals or sediment. For chemical contamination, bottled water is the safer choice.
Keep a supply of bottled water on hand for at least three days. Store it in a cool, dark place. If you run out, you can use melted clean ice cubes or water from your water heater, as long as the heater was not flooded. Drain the heater first if you suspect contamination.
Flush Your Plumbing System
Once you have confirmed your water is safe or after repairs are made, flush your plumbing. Start with the lowest faucet in your home, like a sink on the lowest floor or an outdoor spigot. Run the water for several minutes to push out any contaminated water that sits in the pipes.
Then, flush each faucet, shower, and toilet in your home, working from the lowest to the highest point. This clears sediment and stagnant water from the lines. If you have a water filter, replace it before flushing, as it may be contaminated.
- Start at the lowest faucet in your home
- Run each tap for several minutes to clear lines
- Flush toilets several times to clear the lines
- Replace any water filter cartridges
- Drain and clean your water heater if it flooded
Test Your Water Quality
After flushing, you can test your water for safety. Simple home test kits check for bacteria, lead, and pH levels. These kits are available at hardware stores and are easy to use. Follow the instructions carefully and compare the results to the included chart.
If the test shows contamination, or if you are unsure, contact your local health department or water utility for guidance. They can provide information on local water quality. Do not use the water for drinking or cooking until you are confident it is safe.
Clean Up Water Damage Properly
While you secure your water, address the damage itself. Standing water and damp materials can lead to mold growth. Remove soaked carpets, drywall, and insulation promptly. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the affected areas. Wear gloves and a mask to avoid contact with contaminated water.
For thorough cleanup, you may need professional help. Local water damage pros can assess the extent of the damage and handle drying, sanitizing, and repairs. If the damage is extensive, consider a water damage inspection to check for hidden moisture. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Remove wet porous materials like carpets and drywall
- Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed drying
- Wear protective gear when handling floodwater
- Check for mold growth within 24 to 48 hours
- Document damage with photos for your records
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
How long should I boil water after a flood?
Boil tap water for at least one minute at a rolling boil. Let it cool before drinking. Continue boiling until your local utility says the water is safe. If you cannot boil, use bottled water. Boiling kills most bacteria but does not remove chemicals.
Can I use my water heater for drinking water?
Yes, if the water heater was not flooded or damaged. Turn it off first, then drain the tank through the spigot into a clean container. Let it cool before drinking. If the heater was submerged, do not use it until it is inspected and cleaned.
What should I do if my water smells like sewage?
Stop using the water immediately. Turn off your main valve to prevent drawing contaminated water into your home. Contact your local water utility to report the issue. Do not drink or cook with the water until you get confirmation that it is safe.