HALEBRIGHTWater mitigation · Houston

Before you call anyone.

The first hour, in order. Every step comes from the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), FEMA or Houston Public Works.

  1. 01

    Stop the water.

    Shut it off at the main. How to find yours

    Why: TDI says to "shut your water off at the main" and stop the leak as soon as you can.source [7, 8]

  2. 02

    Make it safe.

    Turn off power and gas. Have an electrician check before power comes back on.

    Why: FEMA's post-flood guidance.source [1]

    FIELD NOTE

    Water at outlets, panels or appliances? Treat the room as unsafe until it is checked.

  3. 03

    Move valuables up off the floor.

    Too heavy to move? Put foil or plastic under each leg.

    Why: TDI warns your insurer "may deny your claim if you don't protect your property." Temporary repairs are generally fine.source [7, 9]

    FIELD NOTE

    A sofa or dresser you can't lift: slide foil or a plastic bag under each leg. It keeps wood from wicking water and stops stain marks on wet carpet. Skip bare wood blocks; they can stain too.

  4. 04

    Photograph everything before you touch it.

    Wide shots and close-ups.

    Why: TDI and FEMA both say to document before repairs. Include water marks and the inside of closets and cabinets.source [8, 9, 2, 1]

  5. 05

    Tell your insurer as soon as you can.

    Hidden water damage usually has to be reported within days. What Texas policies usually cover

    Why: TDI. Don't make permanent repairs until your insurer has seen the damage.source [8, 9]

  6. 06

    Keep damaged items and receipts

    until the adjuster has seen them.

    Why: TDI. Keep receipts for any repair materials you buy.source [8]

  7. 07

    Start drying.

    Mold can begin within a day. More on the clock

    Why: TDI says within a day; FEMA says 24 to 48 hours, and drying usually takes two to three days.source [8, 3]

  8. 08

    Then call us.

    With the water stopped and photos taken, you can tell us what happened and when.

Think it might be mold?

A licensed mold assessor decides whether it is mold.source [6] In Texas, TDLR (the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation) licenses assessors and remediators separately, and one license holder may not do both on the same job.source [4] When a license is required

Not sure where the leak is?

Houston Public Works publishes a two-hour meter test and a toilet dye test. Try them first.