Plain answers for every water damage question
A burst pipe, a leaking water heater, a wet basement or a stained ceiling. Find out what to do first, what caused it, how to dry it out and what it may cost, in plain words with sources you can check.
Water emergency right now?
- Stay safe. If water is near outlets, cords or the electrical panel, do not walk in it. Turn power off only if you can reach the breaker from a dry spot.
- Stop the water. Close the main shutoff valve, usually where the water line enters the house or near the water meter.
- Take photos of the water and damage before you move things, for your insurance claim.
- Start drying fast. Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, according to the U.S. EPA.
Emergency guides
- What Causes a Black Water Pipe?
- What to Do Immediately When a Frozen Pipe Bursts
- What to Do Immediately When Your Water Main Is Leaking
- Hearing Water Dripping Behind Your Wall: What It Means and What to Do
- How to Fix a Water Pipe Inside a Wall
- What to Do When Your Water Meter Is Leaking
Latest articles
What to Do Immediately When Your Water Main Is LeakingIf your water main is leaking, shut off the main shutoff valve now, call the city or a licensed plumber, and dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours to stop mold.
What to Do Immediately When a Frozen Pipe BurstsA frozen pipe burst? Shut off the main valve, remove standing water, and call a restoration company. Repair averages $500; mold risk starts in 24 to 48 hours.
What Causes a Black Water Pipe?A black water pipe usually means corroded metal, minerals, or biofilm, not contamination. Learn what causes it, if it's dangerous, and when to call a plumber.
What to Do When Your Water Meter Is LeakingWater meter leaking? Learn who is responsible, how to spot it, what repairs cost, if insurance covers it, and the steps to take now, city side or your side.
How to Fix a Water Pipe Inside a WallFix a water pipe in a wall: cut the drywall safely, repair the break with a fitting or epoxy, then patch and dry the wall. When to call a pro instead.
Hearing Water Dripping Behind Your Wall: What It Means and What to DoHearing water dripping behind a wall usually means a leak. Mold can start in 24 to 48 hours. Learn to find the source and know when to call a plumber.
Water Coming Up Through the Floor: What to Check FirstWater coming up through your floor? Learn the difference between plumbing leaks, groundwater, and sewer backups, plus first-hour steps and what to do next.
What to Do When a Sewer Backup Floods Your BasementSewer backup in your basement? Stop all water use immediately, wear protective gear, find the source, and act within 24 hours to prevent mold.
Where Is the Main Water Shutoff Valve and How Do You Find It?The main water shutoff valve is usually in the basement near the front wall, by the water heater, under the kitchen sink, or outside near the meter. Full guide.
Why Is Your PEX Pipe Leaking at the Fitting?A PEX pipe usually leaks at a fitting because a crimp, clamp, push-to-connect or expansion joint failed to seal, not a hole in the tubing; see the fix by type.
How to Fix a Burst PipeHere is how to repair a burst pipe: shut off the water, cut back to sound pipe, then join it with a fitting matched to the pipe material, copper to PVC.
How to Find and Vet a Water Damage Contractor Near YouTo find a real water damage contractor near you, verify their license and IICRC certification, check insurance, and get two or three estimates first.
Browse by topic
- Burst Pipe & Plumbing Leaks
Burst, frozen and leaking pipes: what to do, what causes them and what repairs cost.
- Water Heater & Boiler Leaks
Leaking water heaters and boilers: find the source, judge the danger and decide repair or replace.
- Water Damage Restoration
How water damage restoration works, how long it takes and how to choose a company.