What to focus on, and when

While water is running
Close the main, keep people away from wet electrical, and protect the water heater.
Right after it stops
Photograph and video everything before moving it, then lift furniture, rugs and boxes off wet floors.
The same day
Remove standing water, open cabinets and closets, run fans and a dehumidifier if power is safe, and call your insurer.
The next few days
Check moisture in walls and floors, remove wet carpet pad or insulation that will not dry, and watch for musty smells.
Before closing walls
Make sure framing and drywall are dry, and get the plumber's written description of the cause and repair.

Documentation checklist

Good records make an insurance claim and any later repairs easier.

  • Wide photos of each affected room, then close-ups of damage
  • Photos of the break before the plumber repairs it, if safe
  • The failed part itself: hose, connector or cut-out pipe section
  • The date and time you discovered the leak and closed the water
  • The plumber's written invoice describing cause and repair
  • Receipts for fans, dehumidifiers, cleaning and temporary housing
  • A list of damaged items with approximate age

Drying is a race against mold

Drywall, insulation, carpet pad and wood framing hold water long after the surface looks dry. If moisture stays trapped, mold can start growing. Fans alone often are not enough inside wall cavities; drilling small holes at the bottom of a wall or removing baseboards lets air reach the wet area.

Slab floors can hold moisture under tile, laminate and carpet. If flooring was soaked, ask whether it needs to come up so the slab can dry.

Do it yourself or call a drying professional?

Often manageable yourself

  • Small clean-water leak caught quickly
  • Hard floors that wipe dry
  • No water inside walls or ceilings
  • Garage slab with nothing stored on it

Consider professional drying

  • Water inside walls or ceilings
  • Soaked carpet and pad over a large area
  • Water ran for hours or overnight
  • Any sign of mold or musty odor

Common questions

Should I call my insurer before or after the plumber?

Stop the water and make the home safe first. Then contact your insurer promptly and ask what they need; policies differ.

Can I throw out damaged items?

Photograph them and ask your insurer before discarding anything, especially larger items.

How do I know a wall is dry?

A moisture meter gives a reading. Ask the plumber or a drying professional to check before the wall is closed.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.