What should I do first when water is coming in?
Stop the water, stay clear of electricity, document the damage, then start getting water out. In that order. Shutting off the main valve is usually the single most useful thing you can do in the first few minutes.
- Stop the waterClose the main shutoff valve, often where the water line enters the house, in the basement, crawl space or near the water heater. For a water heater, close the cold supply valve on top.
- Stay clear of electricityIf water is near outlets, cords or the panel, stay out of the room. Leave the power to the utility or an electrician.
- Photograph everythingTake photos and video of each room before anything is moved or thrown out.
- Call for helpCall a water damage company to start extraction and drying, and call your insurer to open a claim.
Who do I call for a water main break or sewer backup in Atlanta?
If the problem is on the utility's side, such as a main break in the street or a sewer backing up from the public line, call your water utility first. Inside the City of Atlanta and DeKalb County, these lines answer 24 hours a day.
- City of Atlanta water main break or leak: 404-546-0311, or 311 inside the city, 24 hours a day (ATL311).
- DeKalb County water or sewer emergency: 770-270-6243, 24 hours (DeKalb Watershed Management).
- Your homeowners insurer: the claims number is usually on your policy declarations page or in the insurer's app.
Why does the first 48 hours matter?
Mold can start growing on wet materials quickly. The EPA says to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth (EPA). Water removal and drying are emergency work for that reason. The rebuild can wait.
What should I not do?
Do not walk into standing water near electricity, do not throw out damaged items before they are photographed, and do not run a household vacuum on wet carpet. Avoid closing up walls or laying new flooring until moisture readings confirm the area is dry.
Common questions
Where is my main water shutoff?
In many Atlanta homes it is in the basement or crawl space where the water line comes in, near the water heater, or in a box near the street by the meter.
Related guides
Sources
- ATL311: water main breaks and leaks
- Atlanta Department of Watershed Management: report a problem
- DeKalb County Watershed Management
- EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
Last reviewed November 13, 2026. This guide is general information, not legal, insurance or medical advice.