Floodwater can carry soil, debris, and contaminants, and it may affect more than the visible waterline. Do not enter a flooded building if power, structural stability, gas, or water contamination is uncertain. Our referral service can help connect property owners with independent providers who may assess water removal, affected materials, cleaning, and drying. The provider should explain its safety approach and proposed work before you authorize service.
Questions to discuss with a provider
Treat outside floodwater as potentially contaminated
Stormwater and water that has contacted drains, soil, or streets may not be safe to handle without appropriate precautions. Keep people and pets away, follow local emergency instructions, and ask a qualified provider how it will assess and handle the affected materials.
✓Referral assistance for storm-related indoor water damage
✓Provider-led assessment of visible water, debris, and materials
✓Discussion of cleaning, removal, and drying options
✓Guidance to document visible damage for your own records
Standard Restoration Workflow
1
Wait for a safe entry
Follow local emergency guidance and do not enter if electrical, structural, gas, or contamination hazards may remain.
2
Record visible damage safely
When safe, take photos and note affected areas before moving items or authorizing work.
3
Discuss the water source
Tell the provider whether water came from rainfall, a drain, a river, or another source, if known.
4
Review cleanup options
Ask what handling, disposal, cleaning, and drying steps are proposed and who will perform them.
Floodwater may contain sewage, chemicals, debris, or other hazards. Avoid contact until you understand the risks and follow local public-safety guidance.
Coverage varies by policy and cause of water entry. Contact your insurer or agent to confirm coverage and documentation requirements.
Photograph affected items if it is safe, and ask your insurer and cleanup provider what to preserve or discard. Contaminated or unsafe items should not be handled without guidance.
It is a section of wallboard removed to access wet or contaminated wall cavities. Whether it is appropriate depends on the water, materials, and inspection; ask the provider to explain its recommendation.
Emergency Water Help
Flood Damage Cleanup
Call to ask whether an independent provider serves your area. The provider will explain its availability, assessment, and terms directly.
