The short answer
The Immediate Safety Check
Wait until the high winds have completely passed before you step outside. Your first priority should be to check for any obvious, immediate hazards like downed power lines or large, hanging branches. Once the area is secure, you can begin a visual survey of your home's exterior. Look for any debris that may have caused impact damage to your roof or walls.
After confirming it's safe, do a quick walk-around of your property. Note any missing shingles, damaged siding, or broken window seals. These are common entry points for water during future rain. If you see any large cracks or holes, you can take temporary measures like covering them with a tarp. This quick action can minimize water intrusion until a professional assessment.
Signs of Water Entry to Look For
Inside your home, inspect areas most vulnerable to wind-driven rain. Attics and upper-floor ceilings often show the first signs of a compromised roof. Use a flashlight to look for dark streaks, stains, or any signs of active dripping. Pay close attention to corners and areas around chimneys or vents, as seals here are frequently damaged by high winds.
Do not forget to check less obvious spaces. Examine closets on exterior walls and the area around windows for dampness. Feel carpeting near sliding doors or basement walls for moisture. Even a small amount of hidden water can lead to mold growth or structural weakening. Document any findings with photos for your records and for potential insurance purposes. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Water stains or drips on ceilings or walls.
- Damp spots or pooling water in the attic or basement.
- Sagging or bulging sections of drywall or ceiling material.
- Musty odors, which can indicate trapped moisture.
- Warped or buckling flooring near exterior walls.
- Condensation or moisture on the inside of windows.
When to Call for a Professional Inspection
If your visual check reveals any breach in your home's envelope, it is time to call the pros. They have tools like thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to detect water you cannot see. This hidden moisture inside walls or under floors is the real danger, as it causes rot and mold if left untreated.
You should also seek a professional inspection if you are unsure about the extent of damage. A few missing shingles might seem minor, but the underlying decking could be wet. The pros can assess the full scope and recommend the necessary drying or repairs. Acting quickly helps prevent a small leak from turning into a major restoration project.
The Next Steps After Your Inspection
Once you have completed your inspection and contacted the pros, secure the area to prevent further damage. This might involve moving furniture away from wet walls, placing buckets under active drips, or using a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water. Your goal is to stabilize the situation until drying equipment can be set up.
Communicate your findings clearly to the professionals. Show them your photos and point out all the areas of concern. They will then perform a thorough assessment, such as moisture mapping, to create a drying plan. This systematic approach ensures all affected materials are properly addressed to restore your home.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Oklahoma City and nearby communities.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
What if I do not see any damage right away?
Some damage is not immediately visible. Check again over the next few days, especially before it rains. Look for new stains on ceilings or a musty smell. If you suspect a hidden leak, the pros can perform a leak detection inspection.
Can wind cause plumbing leaks inside my home?
Yes, indirectly. Severe wind can shake a house, potentially loosening pipe fittings or stressing old supply lines. It can also shift appliances. If you notice a drop in water pressure or hear running water in walls, shut off your main water valve and call a plumber for pipe leak detection.
Does homeowners insurance cover wind-driven water damage?
Coverage depends on your specific policy and the cause of the damage. Damage from wind-driven rain entering through a wind-created opening is often covered. However, damage from flooding or lack of maintenance may not be. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy details.