What Should I Do After a Severe Storm Hits My Home?

Your immediate focus after a storm is safety. Check everyone in your household for injuries and be cautious when moving around. Look for visible structural damage like cracks, leaning walls, or a damaged roof. If you suspect serious damage, do not enter your home until a qualified inspector says it is safe. Stay clear of downed power lines and wait for the utility company to handle them.

Once safe, perform a careful walk-through to assess the situation. Look for broken windows, debris, and any signs of water entry. Note locations of pooling water, wet drywall, or soaked carpets. This initial visual inspection helps you understand the scope of the problem. Take detailed notes to share with your insurance company and the restoration professionals you contact.

Thorough documentation is key for your insurance claim. Take clear, time-stamped photos and videos of all damage, both inside and out. Capture wide shots of entire rooms and close-ups of specific issues like water lines on walls. Do not discard damaged items until your insurance adjuster has seen them, as they are part of the evidence.

Contact your insurance company promptly to start the claims process. Have your policy number ready and provide a clear summary of the damage. Keep a detailed log of all conversations, including dates and the names of representatives. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Save receipts for any temporary repairs or supplies you purchase, as they may be reimbursable.

Storms often cause more than just roof leaks. Fallen trees can damage siding and windows, allowing water entry. Sump pumps may fail under heavy rainwater, leading to basement flooding. If you experience a burst pipe after a freeze-thaw cycle, knowing where your main water shutoff valve is can be critical. Each of these problems requires a specific repair approach.

Be aware of secondary hazards. Wet materials begin growing mold within 24 to 48 hours. If you smell a musty odor or see discoloration, mention it to the pros. Storm debris can also hide tripping hazards or sharp objects. A thorough cleanup is part of making the property safe again. For major debris, specialized removal services may be necessary.

• Standing water can warp floors and damage subflooring.
• Wet insulation in walls loses its effectiveness and holds moisture.
• Hidden moisture behind walls can lead to structural rot over time.
• Sewer backups from overwhelmed municipal lines pose a severe health risk.
• Electrical systems compromised by water create a serious fire and shock hazard.
• Wind-driven rain can force water into siding, window frames, and attic vents.