What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Flood: A Checklist for Illinois Homeowners

Introduction

Floods don’t wait for a convenient moment, and neither should you. The aftermath of a flood is a high-stakes race against time: water can destroy floors, walls, and precious belongings, and lurking bacteria or mold only make things worse. For Illinois homeowners, knowing what to do in the first 24 hours after a flood is the difference between a quick recovery and long-term headaches. This checklist will keep you on track and get your home—and life—back to normal faster.

TLDR - Quick Guide

Safety first: Don’t enter your home until officials say it’s safe.
Document everything for insurance before cleanup begins.
Remove standing water and dry out the space as quickly as possible.
Contact your insurance and a certified restoration company ASAP.
Prevent mold by cleaning and ventilating affected areas within 24-48 hours.

Detailed Breakdown

Step 1: Prioritize Safety

Wait for the all-clear from local authorities before entering your home.
Wear protective gear: rubber boots, gloves, and a mask.
Avoid using electrical appliances until the power has been checked by a professional (CDC flood safety guidelines).

Step 2: Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of all affected areas, inside and out.
Don’t move or throw anything away until you have a full record for your insurance company.
Make a list of damaged items—details matter.

Step 3: Call Your Insurance Company

Report the flood damage immediately—claims are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ask what your policy covers and whether you’ll need specific documentation.
Keep a log of all calls and contacts for reference.

Step 4: Contact a Restoration Professional

Flood water can be contaminated—leave major cleanup to certified pros (IICRC certified companies).
Emergency restoration companies can quickly extract water, dry your property, and prevent further damage.
Disaster Experts offers rapid 1-hour response times for Illinois homeowners (Disaster Experts).

Step 5: Remove Water (If Safe)

Use buckets, wet/dry vacuums, or sump pumps to remove standing water.
Open windows and doors for ventilation if weather allows.
Remove soaked items like carpets and rugs to speed up drying.

Step 6: Prevent Mold Growth

Mold starts to grow in as little as 24-48 hours (EPA on mold).
Remove wet materials and wipe down surfaces with disinfectant.
Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out rooms thoroughly.

Step 7: Protect Your Health

Watch for signs of waterborne illness or respiratory problems.
Avoid contact with floodwater—it can contain sewage or hazardous chemicals.

Key Takeaways

Your first 24 hours after a flood are critical: safety, documentation, and rapid response prevent bigger headaches later.
Insurance claims need detailed evidence—take lots of photos and keep damaged items.
Professional restoration companies have the right tools and training for fast, safe cleanup.
Mold prevention starts immediately—dry out and disinfect every affected area.
Prioritize your health and safety over property concerns.

FAQs

How soon should I call my insurance company after a flood?
You should contact your insurance company as soon as possible—ideally within the first few hours. Fast reporting gets your claim in the queue and helps you get reimbursed quicker.
Can I start cleaning up before the insurance adjuster arrives?
Yes, but only after thoroughly documenting all damage. Take photos and videos of everything, and keep damaged items for the adjuster’s review if possible.
What should I avoid doing in the first 24 hours after a flood?
Don’t use electrical appliances until the power is checked. Avoid direct contact with floodwater and don’t throw away damaged items until after documentation.
How do I know if the water is contaminated?
Assume all floodwater is potentially contaminated—especially if it’s from rivers, lakes, or sewage backup. Wear protective gear and leave major cleanup to certified pros.
When should I call a restoration company?
Call immediately. The sooner professionals start drying and cleaning, the better your chances of minimizing damage and avoiding mold.