The short answer
First Steps in a Water Emergency
When water is actively flowing, your first move is to stop the source. Look for the main shutoff valve, often near the water meter or where the pipe enters your home. Turn it off if you can do so without stepping into standing water or risking an electrical hazard. If the water comes from a roof leak or a storm, you may not be able to stop it, so focus on moving valuables and protecting floors with towels or buckets.
When to Call a Plumber Instead
A burst pipe, a failed fitting, or an overflowing toilet often needs a plumber first. The plumber repairs the broken pipe or fixture so the water stops. After that, the drying and cleanup work falls to water damage pros. In some cases, the plumber can handle a small spill, but for soaked drywall, carpet, or crawlspace areas, you need specialized drying equipment.
Call a plumber if you can see the leak point and it is a plumbing issue. For hidden leaks behind walls or under floors, the pros can help locate the source with moisture meters and then guide you on whether a plumber is needed. Do not attempt pipe repairs yourself unless you have the right tools and know how to shut off the water safely.
- Shut off the main water valve if it is safe to reach
- Move electronics, documents, and furniture away from the water
- Place towels or buckets under active drips to limit spread
- Turn off electricity in affected rooms if there is any risk of contact
- Take photos of the damage for your records
- Call a plumber for pipe or fixture failures
What the Pros Do After You Call
The pros bring pumps, wet vacuums, and air movers to remove standing water and begin drying the structure. They assess how far the water has traveled, including into walls, under flooring, or into crawlspaces. Their work usually involves extracting water, setting up dehumidifiers, and monitoring moisture levels over the following days.
They also help you understand what can be saved and what may need replacement. For example, soaked drywall often has to be cut out, while hardwood floors may be dried and refinished. The pros give you a clear picture of the damage so you can decide on next steps, whether that is repair work or filing a claim with your insurance company.
Dealing with Insurance and Paperwork
After the immediate emergency is handled, you may need to contact your insurance company. Document the damage with photos and keep a list of items that were affected. Your policy determines what is covered, so review it carefully. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Ask your insurer about deadlines for filing a claim and what documentation they require.
The pros can provide a detailed report of the damage and the work they performed, which you can share with your insurer. They do not handle claims for you, but their records help. Keep all receipts for any materials you buy, such as buckets or fans, and note the time you spent on cleanup if your policy covers that.
Preventing Future Water Emergencies
After the water is gone, think about what caused the emergency. If a pipe burst due to freezing, consider insulating exposed pipes. If a roof leak caused the problem, a roofer can inspect and repair the flashing or shingles. Regular checks of your water heater and washing machine hoses can catch small issues before they become floods.
For homes in a climate with hot summers and frequent spring storms, storm-driven water can be a recurring risk. Check your gutters and downspouts for clogs, and make sure your yard slopes away from the foundation. Simple steps like these reduce the chance of a repeat emergency and keep your home drier in the long run.
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas before cold weather
- Replace washing machine hoses every few years
- Clean gutters and downspouts in spring and fall
- Know where your main shutoff valve is and label it
- Inspect your roof after severe storms for missing shingles
Talk to someone now
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 fast should I call after water starts spreading?
Call as soon as you have stopped the source or realized you cannot stop it. Water soaks into drywall, wood, and carpet quickly, and the longer it sits, the more damage it causes. Acting fast gives the pros the right chance to dry things out and limit permanent harm.
Can I handle a small water spill myself?
A small spill from a tipped glass or a minor leak can often be dried with towels and fans. If water has soaked into drywall, carpet padding, or wood, or if it has spread beyond a few square feet, call the pros. Hidden moisture can lead to mold and structural issues.
What if the water is from a sewer backup?
Sewage water is a biohazard and requires professional cleanup. Do not touch it or try to clean it yourself. Call the pros, who have the equipment and safety gear to handle contaminated water. Also contact your insurance company to understand what your policy covers for sewer backups. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.