The first minutes are about water and electricity, not about blame
When water is coming in, the order is the same regardless of whose fault it is: shut the water off, cut the power to the affected areas, rescue what can be rescued, and only then work out where it came from and who pays. Conversations with neighbours and the building management do not stop water.
The second half is evidence. In a day there is less to see, and in a week nothing at all. That is why photographing and calling the responsible organisation happen immediately rather than after everything dries.
First actions
| Step | Why |
|---|---|
| Shut off the water | Your stopcock is yours; the riser is the emergency service’s |
| Cut the power to flooded areas | Water and electricity together are dangerous |
| Move devices and valuables out | Rescuing beats restoring |
| Tell the neighbours below | They see the consequences before you do |
| Call the emergency service | And record the reference number and time |
If it is coming from above, go up. If nobody is home, call the emergency service: entering a flat without its owner is their procedure, not yours.
Recording the damage
Photograph everything: ceiling, walls, floor, furniture, appliances, stains, swollen flooring, and the water still coming in if it is. Dated photos and video are the basis of every later conversation about money.
The formal damage report is drawn up by the responsible organisation; procedures and deadlines vary, but the principle is the same: the sooner and the more detailed, the better. Insist that the report lists all damage, including what will “appear later” — damp in the joints, swelling, ceiling marks.
Talking to the neighbours
A calm tone saves months. Most floods are accidental, and people are willing to compensate as long as the conversation is about facts rather than accusations. Still, record the agreements in writing — even with good neighbours.
Do not sign anything agreeing an amount before you know the extent: some damage appears weeks later.
Drying and consequences
Water must be removed and the space dried quickly: mould starts within days, and within a week come smells and damage to the substrate. Ventilation, dehumidifiers and removing soaked finishes work better than hoping it dries by itself.
Have the electrics checked before switching anything on: flooded wiring and appliances go back into use only after a professional has looked at them.
When the situation is under control
The water is off, power is cut where needed, the emergency call is logged, everything is photographed and filmed, the report is drawn up, the neighbours are informed, the insurer is notified, drying is under way, and money decisions wait until the damage is assessed.
