1. Make it safe
Water and electricity don’t mix. The EPA’s advice after flooding: “Do not enter your home until you are sure the electricity is off. Standing water can create a shock hazard if outlets are wet” (EPA). If the water is coming from a pipe or fixture, shut off the water supply if you can do it safely.
2. Stop more damage, and keep receipts
The California Department of Insurance calls temporary repairs “one of the most important things to do after a property loss,” to prevent further damage. Your insurer “will reimburse you for all reasonable costs to protect your property, as long as you save receipts for any materials you buy” (CDI claims guide).
- Take pictures and keep records of all clean-up and repair costs.
- Don’t make permanent repairs until the insurance adjuster has seen the damage (CDI storm tips).
- Be wary of anyone pushing expensive “temporary” work. The CDI warns: “Beware of building contractors that encourage you to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs.”
3. Report the claim right away
“You should immediately report any water damage claim to your agent or company representative” (CDI). Note that “homeowners policies do not cover flood damage, but they may cover other kinds of water damage,” so check what your policy says (CDI storm tips).
4. Dry everything within 24 to 48 hours
This is the step that decides whether mold grows. The EPA: “It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth,” and “if wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow” (EPA).
Move out wet rugs and belongings, open up the space to air, and get water out of hidden places such as wall cavities and under flooring. Some materials can’t be saved: “absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy” (EPA).
5. If mold appears: small patch or a job for help?
The EPA’s rule of thumb: “If the moldy area is less than about 10 square feet (less than roughly a 3 ft. by 3 ft. patch), in most cases, you can handle the job yourself.” If there’s been a lot of water damage, or the mold covers more than 10 square feet, the EPA points to professional remediation guidance (EPA).
If you clean it yourself, the EPA lists gloves, goggles and an N-95 respirator, and recommends goggles without ventilation holes.
6. Hire carefully
Disasters draw unlicensed operators. The CSLB warns that “unscrupulous, unlicensed contractors often prey on survivors of disasters,” and advises: “Verify the contractor is licensed and in good standing.” The usual down payment limit still applies: no more than $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less (CSLB Disaster Help Center). Our guide on hiring a licensed contractor covers the rest.
Quick checklist
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Right away | Power off if water is near outlets; stop the source |
| Same day | Photos of everything; temporary repairs; keep receipts; call your insurer |
| First 24–48 hours | Remove wet items; dry out walls, floors and cavities |
| After | Watch for mold; the EPA says patches under about 10 sq ft can usually be DIY; for larger areas, see its remediation guidance |
| Before hiring | Check the license on the CSLB site; down payment no more than $1,000 or 10%, whichever is less |