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What to Do the Minute Your Basement Floods

March 18, 2025 · 5 min read

Step-by-step actions in the first hour of a basement flood - the difference between an insurance claim and a total loss.

First 5 minutes

Kill the power to the basement at the panel. Shut off the water main if the source is a supply leak. Photograph everything for insurance before you move anything.

Next hour

Call a plumber to stop the source, then a restoration company. Don't wade into standing water until the power is confirmed off.