The first thing to do: stop the water
If water is coming from a pipe, fixture or appliance, close the nearest valve or the main water shut-off. In most Chesterfield homes with basements, the main shut-off is on the foundation wall where the water line enters, often near the meter. Turn a wheel handle clockwise, or a lever a quarter turn, until it stops. If the water is from a storm, groundwater or a sewer backup, you can't shut it off, so focus on safety and call for help: (314) 555-0142.
What to do after water damage, step by step
Make it safe
Stay out of standing water that may be touching outlets, cords, appliances or the electrical panel. If you can reach the breaker panel from a dry spot, switch off power to the affected area. Keep away from sagging ceilings.
Stop the source
Close the fixture valve or main water shut-off for a plumbing leak. For a failed sump pump, check that it has power. For a sewer backup, stop using water in the house.
Protect yourself from contaminated water
If the water may be sewage or floodwater, wear boots and gloves and keep children and pets away. The EPA advises using professionals experienced with contaminated water in these cases.
Document everything
Photograph and video the water, the source and every damaged item before moving anything. Note the date and time.
Call your insurer
Report the damage promptly and ask what they need. Our guide on insurance and water damage explains common coverage and exclusions.
Call a restoration provider
Professional water extraction and drying stop the damage from spreading. Call us and we'll connect you with an independent provider for Chesterfield water damage help.
Remove what you safely can
Move belongings to a dry area, pull up wet rugs, and put foil or blocks under furniture legs. Don't throw away damaged items until they've been photographed.
Start drying within 24 to 48 hours
The EPA advises drying water-damaged areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold. Open windows if it's dry outside, run fans and a dehumidifier, and let professionals set up commercial equipment for larger jobs.
What not to do after water damage
- Don't use household appliances or electronics that got wet until they've been checked.
- Don't use a regular vacuum on water. Only use a wet-dry vac.
- Don't paint over stains or close up walls before they're fully dry.
- Don't ignore a musty smell after a leak. It often means moisture is still trapped.
- Don't discard damaged items before documenting them for your insurer.
If it's a basement flood
Basement floods have their own risks, including deeper water, electrical panels and appliances at floor level, and a higher chance the water is contaminated. Our page on flooded basement cleanup and the post on what to do when your basement floods after heavy rain cover this in detail.
If it's a sewage backup
Treat sewage as hazardous. Stop using water and flushing toilets, keep everyone away, and call for professional cleanup. See sewage backup cleanup.