The short answer
Ensure Safety First
Before re-entering your home, wait for officials to declare it safe. Floodwaters can hide dangers like structural damage, electrical hazards, and contaminated water. Never walk or drive through moving water, as even shallow water can sweep you away. Check for visible damage to the foundation, walls, or roof from a safe distance.
Wear protective gear, including rubber boots and gloves, if you must go inside. Turn off the main electrical power and gas supply at the meter if it is safe to do so. Avoid using any electrical appliances while standing on a wet floor. Be aware that snakes or other animals may have entered the home.
Document the Damage
Take extensive photos and videos of all damage before you remove anything. Capture water lines on walls, damaged floors, and ruined personal belongings. This visual proof is vital for your insurance claim and any FEMA application. Make a detailed list of all damaged items, including their approximate age and value.
Keep damaged items if possible until an insurance adjuster or FEMA inspector sees them. Separate damaged items from undamaged ones to make the inspection process easier. Store receipts for any emergency repairs or purchases you make. This documentation helps establish the scope of your loss for all parties involved.
Begin Immediate Mitigation
Start removing water and drying your home as soon as it is safe. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes, leading to mold and rot. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, and towels to extract standing water. Open windows and doors to increase ventilation if the outside air is drier.
Remove wet items like carpets, furniture, and bedding to dry outside if possible. Pull up wet carpet and padding to prevent mold growth in the subfloor. Use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and pull moisture from building materials. The goal is to get the home dry within 24 to 48 hours.
- Pump out standing water from basements or low areas.
- Remove soaked insulation, drywall, and flooring that cannot be dried.
- Clean and disinfect all hard surfaces that contacted floodwater.
- Dry furniture, cabinets, and clothing thoroughly to prevent warping and mold.
- Dispose of contaminated food, medicines, and cosmetics.
- Check for hidden moisture in walls and under floors with a meter.
Contact Insurance and FEMA
Notify your homeowner's or flood insurance company about the damage right away. Start the claims process by providing your initial documentation and list of losses. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Ask your adjuster about the specific steps you need to follow for your policy.
You should also register with FEMA for potential disaster assistance, even if you have insurance. Assistance depends on a federal disaster declaration for your area and your personal eligibility. Keep all your application and claim numbers in a safe place.
Plan for Repairs and Recovery
Flood recovery is a long process that requires careful planning. Be wary of contractors who pressure you for immediate payment or offer unusually low prices. Get written estimates from several contractors before signing any agreements. For major repairs, check that the contractor obtains the proper permits from your local building department.
Consider future flood risks when rebuilding. You might elevate electrical systems, use flood-resistant materials, or improve drainage around your home. Taking these steps can help protect your home from future water damage events.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Federal Way and nearby communities.
Call Now (253) 785-9361Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to apply for FEMA assistance?
You typically have 60 days from the date a major disaster is declared for your area to apply. It is best to register as soon as possible after the flood occurs to avoid missing the window.
Will FEMA help if I have insurance?
Yes, you should still apply. FEMA assistance cannot duplicate insurance benefits, but it may help with costs your insurance does not cover, like temporary housing. You must provide your insurance information and settlement details to FEMA. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
What should I throw away after a flood?
Discard any porous items that contacted floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes mattresses, upholstered furniture, carpet, and drywall. Also throw away all food, medicines, and cosmetics that were submerged. When in doubt about an item's safety, it is better to dispose of it.
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