Stop the source first
Nothing else works until the water stops.
- Close the valve at the fixture (toilet, sink or appliance) if one is within reach and dry to touch.
- If it is a supply line or you cannot find the cause, close the main shut-off.
- Open a faucet at the lowest point of the house to drain the remaining water in the pipes.
- If water is near outlets, appliances or the electrical panel, stay out of the water and call an electrician or your utility.
Common Florida leak sources
| Source | What it often looks like |
|---|---|
| Supply line burst or loose connection | Sudden flow; can release a lot of water quickly |
| Slab leak (pipe under the concrete floor) | Hidden for a long time; shows as damp or warm floors or a rising bill |
| AC condensate drain line or pan overflow | Water at the air handler, in a closet, or a stain on the ceiling below |
| Water heater failure | Water around the base; rust or damp insulation |
| Washing machine or dishwasher hose | Water in the laundry area or kitchen, often behind the appliance |
| Refrigerator ice-maker line | A slow, hidden leak under flooring |
What to document before cleanup
- Photos and short videos of every affected area, wide and close-up.
- The date and time you found it and what you did to stop it.
- Damaged items, with brand and approximate age if you know them.
- Plumber and repair invoices.
Keep damaged items you can safely keep until your insurer says otherwise. See the Florida insurance claims guide.
Why a dry-looking floor can still be a problem
Water travels under flooring and into wall bottoms. If a leak ran for even a short time, moisture can stay in the subfloor and drywall long after the surface dries. The U.S. EPA advises drying water-damaged areas within 24 to 48 hours to help prevent mold. A moisture meter reading is the only reliable check, which is what structural drying includes.
Who to call
- A licensed plumber repairs the pipe or fixture.
- A restoration provider extracts water and dries the structure.
- Your insurer should be told early. Florida has strict deadlines for giving notice of a claim, covered in the insurance guide.