Home emergencies — burst pipes, roof leaks, electrical failures, gas leaks, and sewage backups — require immediate action to prevent injury, protect property, and minimize damage. Knowing what to do in the first 60 minutes can mean the difference between a $500 repair and a $50,000 disaster.
10 steps across 3 sections
1. Immediate Response (First 10 Minutes)
- Ensure safety first — If there is a gas smell, leave immediately and call 911 and your gas company from outside. If there is standing water near electrical outlets or panels, do not walk through it...
- Shut off the source — For water emergencies, locate and turn off the main water shutoff valve. For electrical problems, turn off the affected circuit at the breaker panel. For gas leaks, turn off t...
- Protect people and pets — Move everyone away from the affected area. If structural damage is suspected, evacuate and call 911.
2. Damage Control (Minutes 10-60)
- Mitigate further damage — For water leaks: place buckets under active leaks, move valuables and electronics away from water, use towels to contain spreading water. For roof leaks: use tarps or heav...
- Document everything — Before cleaning up, take extensive photos and video of all damage. This documentation is critical for insurance claims. Photograph the source of the problem, the extent of the...
- Contact your insurance company — Report the emergency promptly. Many policies require timely notification. Ask about emergency mitigation coverage — most policies cover reasonable steps to prevent ...
3. Professional Response
- Call emergency repair services — Contact a licensed emergency plumber, electrician, or roofer. Most offer 24/7 service. Expect premium rates ($150-$300/hour) for after-hours and weekend calls.
- Begin water extraction — For significant water damage, contact a water damage restoration company. They use industrial pumps, dehumidifiers, and fans to extract water and prevent mold (which can be...
- Get temporary repairs done — Emergency repairs stop active damage but may not be permanent. A temporary roof tarp, pipe clamp, or board-up service prevents further damage until permanent repairs ca...
- Plan permanent repairs — Once the emergency is stabilized, get 2-3 estimates for permanent repairs. Work with your insurance adjuster to agree on scope and cost before starting permanent work.
Common Mistakes
- Not knowing where shutoffs are
- Walking through standing water near electricity
- Cleaning up before documenting
- Hiring the first company that calls
- Not mitigating further damage
Pro Tips
- Create an emergency contact card
- Know your water shutoff
- Keep a home emergency kit
- Install water leak sensors
- Review your insurance coverage annually