What to Do in the First Hour After Your Basement Floods
Published
A calm, step-by-step checklist for Kansas City Northland homeowners in the first hour after a basement flood — safety, water source, photos, and who to call.
1. Make the area safe
If water is near outlets, appliances, or the electrical panel, do not walk into it. Shut off power at the breaker only if you can reach it from a dry spot. If you can't, wait for a professional or the utility.
2. Stop the source if you can
For a burst supply line or water heater, close the main water shutoff valve — usually near the water meter or where the line enters the basement. For storm water or groundwater, the source can't be shut off, so focus on protecting belongings.
3. Document everything
Take photos and video of the water level, damaged items, and the source before anything is moved. Your insurance adjuster will ask for this.
4. Move what you can
Lift furniture onto blocks or move it upstairs. Pick up rugs, boxes, and electronics. Don't run a household vacuum on wet floors.
5. Call for professional extraction
Standing water soaks into drywall, carpet pad, and subfloor quickly. Professional extraction and structural drying within the first 24–48 hours help limit secondary damage such as swelling and mold growth. Our team answers 24/7 at 816-781-6760.