What to Do If There’s a Flood in Your Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

A flood in your home is scary. It can be hard to know what to do first. Taking the right steps right away can help protect your family and your home from more damage.

This guide gives you simple, clear steps to follow if you find floodwater in your home.

Step 1: Your Safety Comes First!

Before you worry about your things, think about safety.

• Turn Off Power and Gas. If you can get to your home's main breaker box and gas shut-off valve without stepping in water, turn them off. NEVER stand in water to do this. If you are not sure it's safe, leave it alone and get out immediately.

• Leave If It's Bad. If there is a lot of water, or if the water is rising, leave your home. Get your family and pets to higher ground. Your things can be replaced, but your family cannot.

Step 2: Take Pictures of the Damage

Once you are safe, if you can, document the damage.

• Use Your Phone. Take many pictures and videos of the wet areas and any damaged items. This will be very important proof for your insurance claim.

• Make a List. As you remember things, write down a list of items that were damaged by the water.

Step 3: Call for Help Right Away

You will need help from experts to handle the cleanup safely.

• Call a Restoration Professional. Your first call should be to a certified restoration company like Apex Restoration. Our job is to respond quickly to stop more damage from happening and start the drying process.

• Call Your Insurance Company. After calling for cleanup help, report the flood to your insurance company. Give them the pictures and information you gathered. Ask them what you should do next for your claim.

Step 4: Reduce the Damage (Only If It Is Safe)

While you wait for help to arrive, you can take these small steps if the area is safe to be in (no deep water or electrical risk).

• Move Wet Things. If you can, move wet rugs, small furniture, and other belongings to a dry place, like a garage or outside on a sunny day. This helps stop moisture from spreading.

• Help Things Dry Out. If it has stopped raining, open windows to let fresh air circulate. If the power is safely on in dry areas of the house, you can use fans and dehumidifiers to help start the drying process.

Be Ready Before a Flood Happens

Being prepared can make a big difference. Keep an emergency kit with things like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and snack foods. Also, pay attention to Utah weather updates on your phone or TV, especially during heavy rainstorms.

Expert Help is Crucial After a Flood

In the aftermath of a flood, getting professional help is the most important step to get your home back to normal safely. The team at Apex Restoration is here to help. Our certified technicians have the right tools and training for water extraction and flood cleanup. We are available 24/7 to help you and your family restore your home to a safe and comfortable condition.