Water Damage Emergency Decision Tree
Answer step-by-step to get the right actions for your situation — safety, shutoffs, and who to call.
What this tool tells you
It asks what is happening right now and routes you to the first thing to do — power, water source, photographs, or getting out of the room — in the order that protects both the building and an insurance claim. Built for the situation where somebody is standing in water and has no time to read a guide.
Emergency Decision Tree
Answer each question for your situation
Is there standing water or active leaking right now?
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stay in my house during water damage?
For Category 1 clean water in limited areas, yes with caution. For Category 3 sewage or flood water, evacuate until professional decontamination is complete.
Who do I call first for water damage?
Restoration company first — they extract, dry, and document for insurance. Then your insurer. Then plumber or roofer for the source repair.
Who do I call right now for water damage?
Call (888) 840-6512. The line is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and connects you with an IICRC-certified water damage restoration company that serves your area. Describe what you can see — where the water is coming from, how long it has been there, and whether it smells — the more specific you are, the faster the right company is on the line.
If the source is a pipe or an appliance, shut the main water valve first. Have four things ready and the call goes quickly: the address, when the water started, what is wet now, and whether you have filed an insurance claim.
Still not sure which of these is your situation? (888) 840-6512 · toll-free · answered 24/7
Talk to a water damage pro now
Answered 24/7 · Toll-free · answered 24/7 · no obligation
(888) 840-6512- Describe the damage & give your ZIP
- You're routed to the on-call local crew
- They quote — you decide, no obligation