1. Shut off the main water valve
In most Schenectady homes the main shutoff is in the basement, near where the water line enters from the street side. Turn it clockwise until it stops. If the valve is stuck or leaking, call us — do not force it.
If you're on a well, switch off the well pump breaker first.
2. Open the lowest faucet in the house
Opening a basement utility sink or outdoor spigot lets the rest of the water in the lines drain down and stop spraying from the break.
3. Turn off electricity to wet areas
If water is anywhere near outlets, light fixtures, or electrical panels, kill those breakers before walking through standing water.
4. Move and protect what you can
Move furniture and electronics off wet floors. Lift the corners of area rugs off wood floors. Put foil under wood furniture legs.
If a ceiling is bulging, poke a small hole at the lowest point with a screwdriver and catch the water in a bucket — better than the whole ceiling collapsing.
5. Document everything for insurance
Photo and video every room. Get serial numbers off damaged electronics. Save receipts for fans, dehumidifiers, hotel stays — most homeowner policies reimburse these.
Then call Apollo Brothers
Call (518) 310-4909 anytime. A licensed Apollo Brothers plumber answers 24/7 — no call center, no voicemail. Most Schenectady emergency calls reach you within the hour.
Frequently asked
How long do I have before water damage becomes mold?
Mold can start growing in 24-48 hours on wet drywall and carpet. Fast extraction and drying is the difference between a $2,000 cleanup and a $15,000 remediation.
Will my homeowner's insurance cover this?
Sudden and accidental water damage (a burst pipe) is typically covered. Slow leaks that went unrepaired are usually denied. Document the timeline carefully.
Have a question about your project?
Talk to a licensed Apollo Brothers contractor — open 24/7 in Schenectady.
Call (518) 310-4909