Checklist 1
First five minutes
Immediate steps that prioritize people and prevent unnecessary exposure.
Move people and pets away from electrical, ceiling, sewage, floodwater, gas, fire, or structural hazards. Call 911 first when immediate life-safety danger exists. Stop the water only when the shutoff is safely accessible. Avoid touching wet electrical equipment or fixtures. Call for professional guidance when conditions are active or uncertain.
Checklist 2
Before the response team arrives
Information and access details that can improve coordination.
Identify the property address, unit, suite, floor, gate, and access instructions. Identify the source and whether water is still flowing. List affected rooms, units, suites, or levels. Identify occupants, tenants, residents, inventory, or critical operations. Take photographs only from safe locations.
Checklist 3
recovery documentation and documentation
A basic record that can support later review without delaying safety measures.
Record when the loss was discovered. Photograph wide room views and close details when safe. Keep incident record numbers, names, dates, and communications. Preserve original photographs and files. Keep mitigation records, invoices, moisture data, and project updates.