Top Causes of Emergency Water Damage in Homes

Water doesn’t ask permission before it enters your home—and when it does, the damage can escalate fast. At First Response Restoration, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Newton, Brookline, Boston, and Providence clean up the mess and get back on track. Whether it’s a flooded basement or a broken water pipe, emergency water damage can strike when you least expect it.

One of the most common causes? Broken or burst pipes. When temperatures drop or plumbing ages, pipes can crack, flooding your home in minutes. We’ve seen this kind of emergency in both older Providence homes and modern Boston condos.

Another major issue is sewage backup. This isn’t just water—it’s toxic waste that can make you and your family sick. Sewage tends to back up when drains are clogged or when the city system overflows after a storm. Fast cleanup is critical here, and it’s not something you want to tackle on your own.

Appliances are another hidden threat. A leaking washing machine hose or dishwasher line can dump gallons of water onto your floors before you realize it. The same goes for water heaters, especially older units. Once the tank bursts, you’re dealing with a major emergency water damage scenario.

Storms don’t help either. Heavy rain and wind can cause roof leaks or overwhelm gutters, sending water straight into your attic or basement. We’ve responded to dozens of flooded basements in Brookline and Newton after even moderate storms.

Don’t forget human error—overflowing tubs, sinks, or toilets can cause just as much damage as a storm or broken pipe. And if your HVAC system isn’t maintained, it can leak water over time and cause mold inside your walls.

At First Response Restoration, we understand how overwhelming water damage feels. That’s why we respond within 30 minutes, 24/7. We work with all homeowners’ insurance, offer direct billing, and provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Need help fast? Call us anytime at 774-670-5912. If you’re dealing with emergency water damage, our certified team is ready to dry, clean, and restore your home safely, quickly, just like we’ve done for families across Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

This post was written by a professional at First Response Restoration. First Response Restoration provides Water Damage Restoration Boston MA, mold removal near you, and sewage cleanup throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New England. We’re licensed, bonded, insured, and fully certified to handle residential and commercial restoration projects.