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Juanita Bay Water ResponseWater Damage Help · Kirkland, WA

What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Flood

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

Before you enter a flooded area, make sure the electricity is off. If the breaker panel is dry, turn off the main switch. If there is standing water, do not walk into it until you are certain the power is off. Wear rubber boots and gloves to avoid contact with contaminated water.

If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the building and call the gas utility from outside. Do not use any electrical switches or appliances until the gas is cleared. If you feel unwell or have any health concerns, see a doctor. Do not enter a room where the ceiling is sagging or the floor feels soft.

  • Turn off electricity at the main breaker if safe
  • Check for gas leaks and leave if you smell gas
  • Wear rubber boots and gloves
  • Avoid standing water that may be electrified
  • Do not enter rooms with sagging ceilings

Stop the Water Source

If the flood came from a burst pipe, an overflowing appliance, or a roof leak, stop the water at its source. Locate your main water shutoff valve and turn it off. If you live in Kirkland, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act fast.

For natural flooding from rivers or heavy rain, you may not be able to stop the water. In that case, focus on moving valuable items to higher ground and away from the water. If you have sandbags, place them to redirect water away from entry points.

If the water is from a plumbing issue, a plumber can help with repairs. For floodwater that has entered your home, the pros can handle extraction and cleanup. Do not wait too long, as water damage worsens quickly.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of the flooded areas, including water levels, damaged belongings, and any visible structural issues. Write down a list of damaged items and their approximate value. This documentation helps with your insurance claim.

Do not throw away damaged items until you have recorded them. If you must remove wet carpet or drywall for safety, cut a small sample and keep it as evidence. Check your insurance policy to understand what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Keep receipts for any emergency supplies or temporary repairs you buy. These may be reimbursable. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process, but do not wait for approval before taking steps to prevent further damage.

Remove Standing Water

Standing water can seep into walls, floors, and furniture, causing more damage. Use a pump, wet/dry vacuum, or buckets to remove as much water as possible. If the water is deep, wait until it recedes before entering.

Once the bulk of the water is gone, use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to speed up drying. The pros can provide structural drying and dehumidification to prevent mold growth. If you have a flooded basement, you may need professional help to extract water and dry the space.

If you are unsure about the extent of the damage, a water damage inspection can help identify hidden moisture. The sooner you dry things out, the less likely mold will take hold.

Prevent Mold and Further Damage

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. Remove wet carpets, padding, and drywall that cannot be dried quickly. Use a dehumidifier and keep indoor humidity below 50 percent. If you have a mild marine climate with wet winters and dry summers, drying out quickly is especially important.

Clean and disinfect all wet surfaces with a bleach solution or a commercial disinfectant. Do not mix bleach with ammonia. If mold has already appeared, a mold professional can assess and remediate it safely.

For damaged drywall, flooring, or ceilings, you may need to remove and replace them. The pros can handle water-damaged flooring removal and drywall repair. If you have questions about what to keep or remove, ask a qualified professional for advice.

Need help right now?

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I turn off the electricity if there is standing water?

Yes, turn off the main breaker if the panel is dry and you can reach it without stepping in water. If the panel is wet, call an electrician. Never touch electrical equipment while standing in water, as it can be fatal.

How long do I have to dry out my home before mold grows?

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, so act quickly. Remove standing water, open windows, and use fans and dehumidifiers. If you cannot dry everything in time, consider professional help to prevent extensive mold damage.

Can I throw away water-damaged items right away?

Not until you have documented them for your insurance claim. Take photos and list each item. If you must remove wet carpet or drywall, keep a small sample as evidence. Once documented, you can dispose of items that cannot be cleaned or dried.

Call Now (425) 406-3256