The short answer
Ensure Personal Safety First
Your personal safety is the absolute priority after a storm passes. Watch for downed power lines, broken glass, and unstable trees or structures. Do not walk or drive through floodwaters, as they can hide hazards and be electrically charged. Enter your home only if you are certain it is structurally sound and there is no risk of collapse or electrocution.
If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave the area immediately and call the utility company from a safe distance. Check on your neighbors, especially those who may need assistance. Keep a battery-powered radio handy for emergency updates. Have a first aid kit accessible for minor injuries, and seek professional medical help for anything serious.
Secure Your Property and Prevent More Damage
If it is safe to do so, take measures to stop additional water from entering your home. This might involve placing a tarp over a damaged roof or boarding up broken windows. Move undamaged belongings to a dry area if possible. Locate your main water shutoff valve and turn it off if you suspect pipe damage from freezing or shifting.
Be cautious when moving around your property, as wet surfaces are slippery. Remove standing water with a pump or wet-dry vacuum if you have one and electricity is safe. Ventilate the area by opening windows to help reduce humidity. These temporary steps can help minimize the extent of the damage before a full evaluation is performed.
- Cover roof holes with a heavy-duty tarp.
- Board up broken windows and doors.
- Move furniture and rugs away from wet areas.
- Turn off electricity at the breaker if safe.
- Pump out shallow standing water.
- Place aluminum foil under furniture legs on wet carpet.
Document Everything for Your Insurance
Thorough documentation is crucial for your insurance claim. Take clear, timestamped photos and videos of all damage, both inside and outside your home. Capture wide shots of each room and close-ups of specific issues like water lines on walls or damaged personal items. Make a detailed list of all affected belongings, including descriptions, brand names, and approximate purchase dates or values.
Do not throw away damaged items until your insurance adjuster has seen them, as they are evidence. Keep all receipts for any temporary repairs, like tarps or supplies, as these costs may be reimbursable. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the loss and start your claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
When to Call for Professional Water Damage Help
For significant flooding or water intrusion, professional help is essential. Local water damage pros have the equipment and expertise to properly dry a structure, which is key to preventing mold. They perform moisture mapping to find hidden dampness in walls and floors. This detailed drying process is difficult to accomplish effectively with consumer-grade equipment alone.
Signs you need a pro include standing water over an inch deep, water that has soaked into drywall or flooring, or a musty odor that indicates hidden moisture. In many climates, rapid drying is important after storms due to high humidity levels. The sooner the drying process begins, the better the chance of saving your building materials and personal items.
Avoid Common Post-Storm Mistakes
A common error is delaying the call for professional help, allowing mold to begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. Do not assume water has evaporated just because surfaces feel dry; moisture often remains trapped. Another mistake is using household fans on mold-contaminated areas, which can spread spores. Never use electrical appliances or turn on power in standing water.
Do not attempt to repair structural damage yourself before a proper inspection. Avoid walking on sagging ceilings or floors. Refrain from using a standard household vacuum to clean up water, as this is an electrocution hazard. Always prioritize a thorough, professional assessment to ensure your home is dried correctly and is safe for you to reoccupy.
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Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to file an insurance claim after storm damage?
You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible, ideally within 24 to 48 hours. Most policies require prompt notification of a loss. Check your specific policy documents for any deadlines. Delaying could complicate your claim process.
Can I start cleaning up before the insurance adjuster's inspection?
You can take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, like removing water or placing a tarp. Document everything with photos first. Do not make permanent repairs or discard damaged items until the adjuster has completed their inspection, as they need to see the full extent of the loss.
What if I see mold after the storm?
Visible mold indicates a persistent moisture problem. Do not disturb it, as disturbing mold can release spores. A mold professional can assess the extent and recommend safe remediation. It is also wise to see a doctor if you feel unwell after potential mold exposure.