The first-hour checklist
- Stop the source. Burst pipe or failed heater? Shut the main valve — usually at the street meter box or the garage wall. Can't find it? Call and we'll talk you through it.
- Cut power to wet areas. Flip breakers for affected rooms. Never touch switches or outlets while standing in water.
- Move valuables up and out. Electronics, documents, rugs, and anything irreplaceable — off the floor, now. Put furniture legs on aluminum foil or wood blocks.
- Call from the property: (480) 555-0100. Have your ZIP code ready — it routes you to the nearest available contractor. Mention sewage, mold, or fire damage explicitly so the right crew rolls.
- Document everything. Photograph every wet area, damaged item, and the source before anything moves. Your insurance adjuster needs this.
- Start airflow if it's safe. Open windows and run fans in unaffected areas — every bit of evaporation helps. Don't run the HVAC if sewage or mold is involved.
- Don't wait to "see if it dries." Water inside walls and under flooring doesn't air-dry — it feeds mold within 24–48 hours in Phoenix heat.
What NOT to do
- Don't use a household vacuum on standing water — electrocution risk.
- Don't tear out drywall or carpet yourself — you'll spread contamination and destroy the insurance evidence.
- Don't run the air conditioner if you smell sewage or see mold near vents.
- Don't wait until morning. Nighttime water becomes morning mold.
📞 (480) 555-0100 — 24/7 live answer