Guides

What to do in the first hour after a burst pipe or a flooded basement, and why drying fast matters for mold.

• Burst pipe: what to do in the first hourShut off the water, stay clear of wet wiring, start drying fast and document the damage.
• Flooded basement: first steps to take safelyStay out of the water until power is safe, document everything, then pump, clean and dry fast.
• Water damage and mold: why the first 48 hours matterMold control is moisture control. What to dry, what to toss and when to bring in help.