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What to do in the first hour of a water leak
Safety first: if water is near electrical outlets, panels or appliances, stay out of the water. Shut off power at the breaker only if you can reach it from a dry spot. If you smell gas, leave and call your gas company or 911.
On your phone? Use the free Water Emergency Helper for these steps one screen at a time.
1. Stop the water
- Close the valve at the leaking fixture: under the sink or toilet, behind the washer, dishwasher or refrigerator.
- If you can't find the source, close the main shutoff, usually on the wall where the water line enters the house, often near the garage or a front hose bib.
- Water heater leak: close the cold-water valve on top and turn the gas to "pilot" or switch off its breaker.
2. Find where it's coming from
- Ceiling stain or drip: an upstairs bathroom, an attic AC drain line, or the roof.
- Warm spot on the floor, or the meter spinning with everything off: possible slab leak.
- Puddle by the garage or a closet: water heater.
- Behind appliances: washer hose, ice-maker line, dishwasher.
3. Document before you clean
Take photos and video of the water, the source and damaged items. Don't throw anything away until your insurer says it's OK.
4. Limit the damage (clean water only)
Move furniture and valuables, lift rugs, wipe up standing water and run fans. Never handle sewage or dirty water yourself.
5. Call for help
Contact your insurance company and a water damage restoration company. Professional drying in the first 24 hours greatly reduces the risk of mold.
Leak-prevention picks
- Water leak detectors — Place under sinks, by the water heater and behind the washer.
- Automatic water shutoff valve — Shuts off the main when a leak is detected. Have a licensed plumber install it.
- Water meter / curb valve key — Lets you close the valve at the meter box.
Water damage now? Call (951) 501-2879