Flooded Home? What to Do About Your Electrical System Before It’s Too Late

When disaster strikes, especially in the form of flooding, your home’s electrical system becomes one of the most dangerous hazards. Knowing what to do (and what not to do) can keep your family safe and protect your property from further damage.

⚠️ Step 1: Safety First — Do NOT Touch Anything

If your home has been flooded or even partially submerged, assume that any electrical component could be live.

Don’t touch electrical outlets, switches, breakers, or appliances.

If it’s safe and dry to do so, shut off power at the main breaker panel.

If the panel is already wet or near water — stay away and call a licensed electrician immediately.

💡 Step 2: Call a Licensed Electrician for an Inspection

Even if the water has gone down, the danger hasn’t. A qualified electrician can:

Inspect for short circuits, corrosion, or damaged breakers

Check wiring behind walls and inside outlets

Determine what must be repaired or fully replaced

Issue a safety clearance before power is restored

🔌 Step 3: Know What May Need Replacing

Unfortunately, floodwater isn’t clean — it contains debris, bacteria, and minerals that ruin electrical components.

These items often need full replacement after a flood:

Electrical panels and breaker boxes

Outlets and switches (especially GFCIs)

Wiring (especially if insulation is soaked)

Hardwired appliances (ovens, HVAC, etc.)

🔄 Step 4: Plan for Preventative Upgrades

If your home is in a flood-prone area, ask about elevated installations for future protection:

Raised outlet boxes

Elevated panels

Moisture-resistant conduit and wiring

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in basements and crawlspaces

✅ Quick Checklist for Flooded Electrical Safety

 Is your main breaker accessible and dry? If not, stay away.

 Avoid all outlets and appliances until inspected.

 Contact a licensed electrician for emergency service.

 Don’t try to dry or reuse electrical components on your own.

 Ask about waterproofing or raising electrical parts in the future.

⚡ Need help after a flood? E&A ELECTRIC LLC is trained in electrical recovery and restoration. Call us right away for safe service and inspections.