5 Steps to Take After Residential Storm Damage

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

After a storm or flood, it's important to take action right away. The longer you wait, the more damage may occur. Here are five steps to take after residential storm damage:

Turn off the power

You should turn off the power to your home immediately after a storm. This is particularly important if you're in an area where there is a risk of flooding, as it can prevent electrocution and other injuries.

If you have gas appliances (stoves or furnaces), make sure they are turned off at their main switches before checking them for damage. If there's any sign that they've been damaged by water or flooding, call an expert right away--gas leaks can be hazardous!

Remove excess water as quickly as possible.

The next thing you'll need to do is remove excess water as quickly as possible. If there's standing water in your home, use a wet vac or mop to soak it up.

To help reduce moisture in the air and speed up drying time, use a dehumidifier (if you have one). You can also set up fans throughout your house and near windows or doors--this will help pull moisture out of the walls and floors so they dry faster and are less likely to have mold growth.

Check for structural damage.

If your home was hit by a storm and you suspect that it has suffered significant damage, it's important to inspect the structure of your home before entering or re-entering. In addition to looking for buckling, cracking or other signs of structural damage, check for signs of water leaking into the walls and ceilings; this could indicate that there is hidden mold growth within these areas as well. Also look for electrical wiring damage--if power lines are down nearby then they may have come into contact with your house during high winds or flooding.

Remove wet items

After your home has been damaged in a storm, it's important to properly care for your affected belongings and dry them in a well ventilated area. This includes furniture and carpeting, which can harbor mold if left damp for too long. If you have time before the cleanup crew arrives (or if you're doing it yourself), take steps now so that mold isn't allowed to grow later on.

Call a professional restoration company

A trusted restoration company can arrive on-site quickly to fully inspect your property and assess the damage before repairs are made. Thorough water damage restoration is key to prevention of secondary damage to your home's structure. They will be able to assist you through the insurance claims process and carefully document the damage in your home.

We know that water damage can be overwhelming and stressful, but it's important to remember that there are professionals who can help you with the situation. If you're dealing with a home or business that has been affected by storm damage and need assistance, contact us today! We understand just how hard it can be when your home is damaged by flooding or heavy thunderstorms.