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What Should You Never Do After Your House Floods?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Avoid Electrical Risks

The biggest danger after a flood is electricity meeting water. Never step into a flooded room if the power might still be on, and do not touch any electrical panel, outlet, or cord that has gotten wet. If you can do so safely, shut off the main breaker from a dry location. If you cannot reach the panel without wading, leave the power on and stay out of the water.

Once the water recedes, have an electrician inspect your system before you flip any switches. Even if the power appears off, moisture can travel through walls and create hazards. Do not use any appliance that has been submerged until a professional checks it. Your safety comes before saving belongings, so when in doubt, keep the electricity off and stay dry.

  • Turn off power only from a dry spot
  • Never touch wet outlets or cords
  • Stay out of water if power may be on
  • Have an electrician check the system first
  • Do not use submerged appliances

Do Not Delay Water Removal

Time works against you after a flood. Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, and soaked drywall, carpet, and wood begin to warp quickly. Do not wait for the water to dry on its own or for a slow cleanup. The sooner you start removing standing water and wet materials, the better your chances of saving your home's structure.

You can begin by mopping or using a wet-dry vacuum to remove shallow water, but do not use a regular household vacuum. Those are not built for water and can create electrical hazards. If the flooding is deep or involves sewage or contaminated water, do not try to handle it yourself. Call the pros for flood damage cleanup, as they have the right equipment and safety gear.

Document Before You Discard

It is tempting to throw out ruined furniture, soaked rugs, and damaged boxes right away, but that is a mistake. Your insurance company may need proof of what was lost before they decide what to pay. Take photos and videos of every affected item, including model numbers if visible, and keep a written list of what you discard.

If you must remove items, stack them outside or in a dry area away from the house until you have documented them. Do not throw anything away until you check your policy or speak with your insurer. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keeping records helps you make a clearer case, though coverage is not certain.

Stay Safe Around Contaminated Water

Floodwater is rarely clean. It can contain sewage, chemicals, and bacteria, especially if the flood comes from a burst pipe or a backed-up drain. Do not wade in it without protection, and keep children and pets out of the area entirely. If you have any cuts or open sores, stay away from the water until it is removed.

Wear rubber boots and gloves if you must enter, and wash any exposed skin with soap and clean water afterward. Do not eat or drink anything that came into contact with floodwater, and throw away any food that was in the flooded area. If you feel unwell after exposure, see a doctor. For contaminated water, the pros are the safer choice to handle the cleanup.

  • Wear boots and gloves in floodwater
  • Keep kids and pets away from the area
  • Do not eat or drink anything touched by floodwater
  • Wash exposed skin thoroughly
  • See a doctor if you feel unwell

Do Not Turn on HVAC or Fans

After a flood, you might want to turn on the furnace, air conditioner, or fans to dry things out. That is usually a bad idea. If the HVAC system got wet, running it can spread moisture and mold spores through the whole house, making the problem much worse. It can also be an electrical hazard if the system is damaged.

Leave the HVAC off until a professional inspects it. The same goes for any built-in fans or vents in flooded rooms. Instead, open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate if the weather allows. Do not use portable fans or dehumidifiers until you have removed standing water and confirmed the power is safe. Your comfort can wait; safety and proper drying come first.

If you live in Chapel Hill, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can stop future flooding quickly.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I turn off the water main after a flood?

Yes, if you can reach the shutoff valve safely and it is dry, turn it off to stop more water from entering. If the valve is in a flooded area, do not wade in. Wait for the pros to handle it.

Can I use a regular vacuum to remove floodwater?

No, a household vacuum is not designed for water and can cause electric shock or damage the motor. Use a wet-dry vacuum or a pump instead. If the water is deep or contaminated, let the pros handle the removal.

What should I do with wet carpet and padding?

Remove wet carpet and padding quickly if you can do so safely, as they absorb water and grow mold fast. Document them with photos first. If the flooding is extensive, the pros can handle removal and disposal properly.

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