Emergency guides
What to do when something goes wrong
Plain-language steps for water, fire and smoke, and odor emergencies: what to do first, what to avoid, and when to call a professional. New guides are added regularly.
What to do in the first hour after a water leak
The first hour decides how much of your home can be saved. Here is what to do, in order, and what to leave alone.
Read guide → WaterWater damage checklist
A simple checklist to keep on your phone, covering the first hour, the first day, and what to tell your insurance company.
Read guide → Fire & SmokeAfter a house fire: what to do and what to avoid
Soot and smoke residue keep doing damage after the fire is out. These steps protect your health and your belongings.
Read guide → OdorHow to find where a lingering smell is coming from
Air fresheners cover odors for a day. Finding and removing the source is the only way to get rid of them.
Read guide → WaterSigns of hidden water damage
Not every leak floods a room. Slow leaks inside walls and under floors can go unnoticed for months. Here is what to watch for.
Read guide →