The storm may be over but its impact doesn’t really end when the rain stops

It ends with that eerie quiet afterwards, when you push open your front door, take a step outside, and your heart just sinks. There are branches everywhere, shingles scattered all over the yard, and maybe a dent in the car from hail. And then you spot that weird drip where you just know there shouldn’t be one.

At that moment, it’s absolutely normal to just freeze up and think ‘I’ve got no idea what to do’. And believe me, if you’re searching for what to do right away after a storm, you’re not the only one. None of us get handed a handy manual for dealing with this stuff.

That’s where we come in

We’re going to work through what to do right after a storm, step by step, in a way that works whether you’ve just been hit by a major storm, a hurricane, a tropical storm, or some other disaster. 

Severe weather events like hurricanes and tropical storms can cause significant property damage and often lead to power outages, making immediate action crucial. We’ll keep our focus on protecting the people you love, keeping storm damage to a minimum, avoiding those nightmare repair costs and getting through the insurance claims process without losing your mind.

You don’t have to sort everything out right now. All you need to know is what to do next.

Stay Safe in the Immediate Aftermath of the Storm

Rule number one after a storm: keep people safe and put property second every time

When a storm hits and the wind finally dies down, there’s a big temptation to rush outside and start cleaning up. We all want to “do something” because it feels better than just standing there. But the very first thing we need to do is look for any danger.

Take a slow walk around your property Do you see any downed power lines or downed wires near your house? Treat all of them as if they’re alive, no exceptions. Don’t try to move them, don’t drive over them, and keep kids and pets well away from them. 

Call the utility company and follow any instructions from the local authorities or local officials. Power outages are common after severe storms and can disrupt daily routines and affect safety, so be prepared for extended periods without electricity.

Avoid standing water even if it looks like it’s just a puddle. Underneath that water could be broken glass, exposed nails, sharp metal and in flood waters there can often be oil, sewage, or chemicals lurking. And if there are power lines nearby that water could be carrying electricity.

If you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, get everyone out. That could be a gas leak. Get everyone a safe distance away and call your gas company or the fire department from outside the house. Don’t try and turn lights on and off, don’t use charcoal grills inside or anywhere near the house, and don’t even think about cooking on a gas stove until you know it’s safe.

If your house has taken a real pounding, a collapsed roof, leaning walls or visible signs of structural failure, do NOT go back inside just to grab something. It just isn’t worth the risk. Get in touch with 911, the local authorities or emergency services and wait for the all-clear.

If you think it’s safe and can get to the main shutoffs without wading through flooded areas, you can turn off the electricity, water and gas. But only if you can do it safely

Check on People, Pets and Your Immediate Neighbourhood

Once you’ve identified any immediate hazards, it’s time to worry about the things that really matter

Check everyone in your family for any injuries. Look for cuts, bruises, dizziness or signs of shock. If anyone’s really hurt, can’t wake up or isn’t thinking clearly, do what basic first aid you can and get them medical help ASAP.

Then, if it’s safe, check on your neighbours. Storm damage doesn’t just hit one house – it hits a whole community. Elderly neighbours, people with disabilities, single parents or small business owners may need help but don’t know who to ask. 

You may even see stray animals wandering around after a storm, just keep your distance and report them to the local animal services or officials rather than trying to tackle them yourself.

Get your family and pets to the safest, driest bit of your property that you can get to.
Keep kids and pets away from broken glass, slippery floors and damaged rooms. It helps to just tell them: “We don’t go in the broken rooms until we know they’re safe”

Right now, your job isn’t to fix every bit of damage
It’s to keep everyone you love safe and sound, and let them rest, breathe and regroup in a safe spot.

Do a Quick Safety Scan Around the Outside of the House Before You Go In

Before you head back inside, put on sturdy shoes to protect your feet while walking around the property to assess damage. Take a slow walk around the outside to get a look at the damage.

First, look up Are there any branches snapped off or hanging above the roof, the path or the driveway? 

Those could fall later when the wind picks up again. If the storm brought hail, check for obvious damage on shingles, siding, gutters, cars and any outdoor units.check for sagging or broken power lines that are hung up on your roof or walls, leaning against nearby trees or tangled in debris. 

If you spot any, back off and give the utility company a call, don’t assume that the local authorities know about every line that’s down or broke, tell ‘em what you see.

Now take a good hard look at the house itself. Scan the roofline and the exterior walls for any signs that the roof may be missing shingles, the gutters may be bent out of shape, or the siding may be torn off, leaving the wood underneath exposed. 

These are the kinds of things that might already be letting water get into the house. Take your time and watch out for any standing water that might be near the exterior outlets or AC units.

As you walk round the place, keep an eye on the ground too. Check for cracked foundations, a chimney that is starting to lean, or soil that has washed away from around critical areas. Any of these might be a sign that there is a lot more damage inside than you can see yet.

Think of this as your “is it safe to go in yet?” round, the better you inspect at this stage the safer the next steps will be.

Carefully Inspect the Inside of Your Home After the Storm

If the outside doesn’t look too bad and the authorities say it’s okay then you can carefully go back inside and take a closer look around.

Move slowly and keep your eyes on the ceiling and the walls first.
Water stains, new cracks, and bubbling or peeling paint are all signs of storm damage, and if any part of the ceiling looks like it’s swelling or bowing then get under it, it could collapse and hurt you.

Next, take a look at the floors.
Bare spots, warped wood, and loose tiles or boards are bad signs that water has got into the floor space. Be especially careful on stairs, even if they don’t look like they’ve been badly damaged.

Shine a flashlight round the dark spots and under the furniture, behind the curtains and in the closets and corners, these are the places where water likes to hide, and take note of it all for later.

Don’t ignore your nose, a sudden smell of dampness is a warning that there is hidden moisture in the house and it might just be time for some mold to start growing in.

If you find leaks or dripping water or new cracks round the doors and windows then make sure you remember where they are for the paperwork later.

Document All Storm Damage for Insurance

Now lets turn that mess into something the insurance people can understand.

Before you start cleaning, sweeping or chucking things out grab your phone and make some records of it all, this is the foundation of storm damage claims and will help keep things smooth. Make sure to thoroughly document all property damage, as detailed records of every affected area and item are crucial for your claim.

Start with a big wide shot of each room, stand in a corner and take a photo of the whole room so the damage is clear in the picture, then take close-up shots of the bits that are damaged, soggy carpets, warped floors, cracked walls, broken glass, take a picture of anything that looks odd.

Do the same for the outside. Photograph the roof, gutters, downspouts, siding, windows, fences, decks and any visible damage in the yard, don’t leave out the driveway, sheds or vehicles that may have had some rough weather.

Then make some record of your belongings too. Take a photo of any furniture, electronics, appliances, rugs, clothes, and keepsakes that got damaged, including labels and serial numbers if you can, this will help them figure out what was lost.

As you do this, start a list of all the things that got damaged, you don’t need to have the exact figure, but a rough estimate will help a lot with the insurance claim later.

It might seem like a lot of hassle but documenting everything can really save you thousands in repair costs later on.

Make Only Safe and Temporary Repairs

Now that you’ve got the photos and notes lets get on to stabilising the place.

The goal here is simple : make some temporary repairs to stop the damage getting worse without getting ahead of the insurance claim.

If a window is broken cover it up with plywood, plastic sheeting or a tarp to stop the rain and wind getting in, and if you see some roof damage, missing shingles, torn flashing or punctures then secure some tarps properly so water can’t get in until a roofer or other proper professional can sort it out.

Move all the undamaged belongings away from any leaks or damp areas. Put furniture on blocks or bricks or covered foil, just keep the legs dry, and if you can roll up the rugs and move them to a dry room.

Don’t try any big structural repairs until the insurance company has a chance to send someone over. Taking out walls, removing cabinets or doing other big repairs too early can really mess up the claims process, especially if you need to show the original damage.

If there’s a safety hazard like a beam that is about to fall, you need to act fast to protect people but still keep taking photos as you go. And later on, when it comes time to hire a contractor, make sure they give you a written estimate. 

Always ensure you hire licensed professionals to avoid scams and ensure quality repairs. Keep a copy of the estimate for your records and for your insurance company.

Start Water Removal and Drying ASAP

Water inside your place? Time is of the essence, it is moving fast.

As soon as it is safe to do so and you’re got power or a properly set up generator, you can start drying out all the wet areas. Getting rid of that water ASAP is critical to preventing mold growth and long-term repair costs.

Grab a bucket, mop and wet/dry vacuum to get rid of the standing water. Go ahead and open up some windows and doors if the weather is okay, you want air moving through your place. Get out the fans and dehumidifiers to suck all the moisture out of the air and materials.

Now, keep in mind that mold can start growing on wet surfaces in as little as 24 to 48 hours. That’s why acting fast after a flood, or heavy rain, or any kind of storm is so important. The sooner you get that water gone, the better your chances are of staying healthy and saving on repair bills down the line.

After a storm, check your refrigerator and freezer for perishable foods that may have spoiled due to power loss. Discard anything that looks or smells off to avoid health risks. Also, only use safe water sources to prepare food, as tap water may be contaminated after severe weather.

However, if any of your outlets, cords, or breaker panels have gotten wet, don’t just flip breakers and start plugging things in. That is a serious safety hazard. In that case, contact an electrician or a storm damage restoration company before you even think about using any electrical equipment.

You might feel like getting everything dry is the top priority but remember, your safety is way more important than drying the carpet.

Get in Touch with Your Insurance Company Right Away

As soon as things are stable and you’ve got all your photos documented, it’s time to bring your insurance company into the loop.

Get on the phone with your insurance company as soon as it’s safe to do so. The sooner you report the damage, the sooner you’ll get an appointment with an adjuster, and the clearer it is that you are doing the right thing.

Get this info ready when you call:

• Your policy number and what kind of policy you have (homeowners insurance, etc.)
• The date and a rough idea of when the storm hit
• A quick summary of what happened and where you think there’s damage (roof, basement, siding, windows, etc.)
• A rundown of any temporary fixes you’ve done already
• A confirmation that you have taken photos, videos, and made a list of all the damage

Ask them about your coverage, the claims process, and what comes next. If you have questions about your policy, coverage, deductibles, or exclusions, contact your insurance agent for clarification. 

Some companies will let you file a claim online or through an app, others prefer you to talk to an agent or claims rep. In any case, keep a record of who you speak to, the date and what they say.

When the adjuster or rep shows up, try to be there. Walk them through the place, show them your photos and notes, and ask what the next steps are for your claim. You’re not being pushy, you’re just helping them figure out the damage so your claim can move forward.

Choose the Right Restoration Pros and Contractors

After a big storm, you’ll often see contractors knocking on doors.

Some are okay, some are way over their head. Some are just plain sharks who come in after a disaster, make big promises and are gone as soon as they get your money.

To protect yourself and your property:

• Only work with licensed pros who are properly insured
• Look up local reviews and find out how long they’ve been in business in your area
• Get multiple estimates and compare them
• Ask for a written estimate with all the details, materials, labour, and timeline

If you’ve got roof damage or ongoing leaks, consider calling a reputable local roofer who has a physical store. For more complex stuff, like heavy water damage, structural issues, or mold, call a professional storm damage restoration company that specializes in that area.

In a lot of cases, getting the right contractor early can save you a whole lot of money and headache in the long run because they catch and fix small problems before they become big ones.

Roofing and Repair: What to Check and When to Call a Pro

After a severe storm, your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home, and one of the most important to check right away. Even if things look okay from the ground, there could be hidden storm damage that leads to leaks, mold, or even bigger repair costs down the line.

Start by looking for visible signs of trouble: missing or broken shingles, dented metal vents, cracked or sagging gutters, and any spots where the roof looks uneven. Hail damage can be especially sneaky, look for small dents or bruises on shingles, or granules collecting in your gutters. These might not seem like a big deal now, but they can let water in and cause significant damage over time.

If you spot any of these issues, don’t try to climb up there yourself, call a licensed roofing contractor who specializes in storm damage repairs. A reputable pro will know exactly what to look for, can safely assess the damage, and will provide a written estimate for the repairs. This estimate is crucial for your insurance claim and helps you avoid any surprises during the claims process.

When choosing a contractor, make sure they’re experienced with storm and hail damage, have a solid business reputation in your community, and are properly insured. Check their reviews, ask for references, and look them up with the Better Business Bureau to make sure you’re not falling for a scam. Never pay the full amount up front, and always get everything in writing.

Remember, a good roofing contractor will not only help you repair the damage but can also guide you through the insurance process, making sure you get the coverage you’re entitled to. Being aware and proactive now can save you a lot of headaches, and money, later on.

Take Care of Yourself During Cleanup

From a distance, cleanup looks like “just picking up some debris”. But up close, it’s exhausting, dirty and often pretty hazardous.

Dress for the job.
Wear some sturdy boots, long pants, and long sleeves when you’re tramping through damaged areas. You’ll want to wear gloves when you’re picking up debris. If you’re dealing with damp materials or possible sewage or mold, a mask or respirator is a good idea to cut down on health risks. In some areas after a storm, a little insect repellent is smart, standing water can attract mosquitoes and other pests.

Don’t touch any spilled chemicals, old paint cans, suspect containers, or stuff that’s showing heavy signs of mold. That’s a job for a team who knows how to inspect and remove hazardous materials safely.

Take breaks regularly. Grab a drink of water and eat some real food. Don’t push yourself too hard. It’s okay to rest during disaster cleanup,  that’s how you make it to the end. And if you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed or anxious, that’s normal too. Reach out to someone you trust or a pro for support.

Taking the Long Haul – Recovery and Getting Ready for the Next Storm

Once the emergency has been brought under control, you’re in for a slower, more strategic phase: long term recovery.

The first thing to do is get hold of multiple complete estimates for anything that requires serious repairs, especially with the roof, foundations, drainage, windows and electrical systems. You want to prioritize anything that’s crucial for your safety and for stopping water getting in – roof, foundation, drainage, windows, and electrical systems. The rest can wait.

As you start rebuilding, think on how you can do a better job of being ready for the next storm:

• Having roof and shingle materials that can withstand being smashed by wind and debris can save you a lot of hassle on down the line
• Keeping your gutters in good shape and making sure water can run off into the ground will help protect your foundation from flood damage
• Investing in power surge protection will help safeguard your electrical system and appliances during a power outage
• Keeping tree branches trimmed back before any other storm hits can prevent serious damage to your house

Now, actually make a basic emergency kit. Keep it with essentials like flashlights, charged batteries, a radio, first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food, a handful of tools, and copies of important documents in special waterproof bags. Consider all the things you need to do if you can’t get electricity, and avoid using gas grills or open flames inside the house or you risk having a big fire.

Next, create a simple one-page check list of things you need to do the instant a storm hits and stick it to your emergency kit. That way, the next time disaster strikes, you won’t be scrambling to remember everything from scratch.

Long Term Recovery: Steps to Rebuild and Move Forward

Once the immediate chaos has passed and the urgent repairs are underway, it’s time to focus on long term recovery. This is your chance to rebuild stronger, safer, and smarter, so you’re better prepared for whatever the next storm brings.

Start by working closely with your insurance provider. Keep a detailed file of all your storm damage claims, including every piece of correspondence, written estimates from contractors, and receipts for any repairs or temporary fixes. 

Take photos and videos at every stage, from the initial damage to the finished repairs. This thorough documentation will help you avoid disputes and speed up the claims process.

As you plan your repairs, prioritize the essentials: structural safety, weatherproofing, and anything that protects your property from future storms. Get multiple written estimates for major work, especially for things like roofing, windows, and drainage systems. Compare these carefully and don’t be afraid to ask questions, your insurance provider may even have recommendations for trusted local professionals.

Long term recovery isn’t just about fixing what’s broken, it’s about making your home more resilient. Consider upgrades that can help you weather the next natural disaster, like impact-resistant roofing, better drainage, or surge protection for your electrical system. These improvements can lower your risk and may even reduce your insurance premiums.

Finally, stay organized and patient. Recovery after a storm is a marathon, not a sprint. By keeping good records, working with reputable contractors, and staying in close contact with your insurance provider, you’ll be able to move forward with confidence, and get your property, and your peace of mind, back on track.

A Quick Guide to What to Do After a Storm

The minute a storm has passed, it’s super hard to remember what to do. So use this quick guide to get a handle on what to do right away:

• Check if there are any immediate dangers around, loose wires, gas leaks, anything that could be about to collapse
• Make sure everyone and everything in your household/pets are safe and sound in a dry place
• Be on the lookout for anything that could hurt you, broken glass, nails, sticks, that sort of thing
• Quickly have a look outside for damage to your roof, walls, trees, and any other stuff that could be a problem
• Take a closer look inside for any water entry, cracks, soft floorboards, and other issues
• Document everything, take heaps of photos, record video, and write down a list. This will make it so much easier when you go to sort out your insurance claim
• Do a temporary fix to protect your property and stop the damage getting worse
• Get the water drained out and the place dried out as quickly as you can
• Let your insurer know what’s gone on, and start the insurance claim process
• Only bring in contractors one at a time, and don’t get pushed into cash deals, take your time to make sure you’re getting good value
• Be safe and take care of yourself while you’re doing this
• Think on how you can make your place more storm-proof for next time.

What to Do Immediately After a Storm – Asked and Answered

What do you do first when a storm has passed?

First things first,  take a deep breath and make sure it’s safe to go anywhere outside. Check for power lines, gas leaks, and if the house is in any danger of falling apart. Keep people out of the way until you’re sure it’s safe to go back in. Then take some photos and video of the damage before you even start cleaning up, and before you move anything.

Is it okay to go back inside your house right after a storm?

Not always, if you see it’s badly damaged, leaking walls, sagging ceilings, or you can smell gas, then just wait for someone else to tell you it’s safe before you step foot inside.

How can I check my house for hidden storm damage?

You’ll just need to look and listen for things that don’t seem right, any new cracks in walls and floors, paint bubbling up, water stains in the roof, and musty smells. Check the attic and the area around windows for water or damp. If you’re not sure, call a professional to take a look.

What should I document for my insurance company after a storm?

Document everything, take wide shots of the property, close ups of any damage, and written notes of what you have and how much it’s worth. The clearer you are, the faster and easier your insurance claim will go through.

How soon will mold start growing after a flood?

Mold starts growing as soon as 24 to 48 hours after a flood, especially if the area is warm or poorly ventilated. So clean up the water as fast as you can, and get in experts to take a look and fix the problem before it gets any worse.

What kind of temporary repairs can I do to get my insurance claim across okay?

You’re usually expected to make basic temporary repairs to keep your property safe and prevent further damage, like tarping the roof, boarding up the windows, getting stuff out of the water, and covering any exposed areas. Just make sure to keep all the receipts, and don’t do any major work until your insurer has seen the original damage and given the okay.

Conclusion: Getting Back to Normal After a Storm

Storms have a way of bringing us crashing back down to earth and making us feel absolutely helpless, one minute everything is fine, next thing you know the floor’s a mess, shingles are scattered all over the yard and you’re staring at a never ending to-do list.

But in the midst of all that chaos, things start to fall back into place. You start by getting yourself and your loved ones to a safe spot, then you make sure the furry family members are okay too, aunts, uncles, and all of that lot. 

Then come the not-so-fun tasks like assessing the damage, documenting what’s happened, making do with some temporary fixes and then getting the insurance company and the handful of trusted contractors in to sort things out. None of it is exactly glamorous but when you do it in the right order, it’s actually pretty empowering.

If you’ve just been through a storm, don’t even think about trying to clear your entire to-do list in one day. Just focus on the really important stuff,  staying safe, checking in on the people around you, getting all the paperwork sorted so that you’ve got a clear record of what’s happened, and then get to work on drying out the place and making a few repairs here and there. The rest of the big picture will start to unfold as things start to calm down.

And once the dust has all settled, use this as a chance to really get your ducks in a row for the next big storm. 

Make sure you’ve got all the things you might need stashed away in an emergency kit, print off a copy of that checklist so you can keep it handy, look into getting a reliable roofer or restoration crew lined up ahead of time, and take a close look at your insurance policy so you know what to expect when that next big storm comes knocking on your door. 

You might not be able to control the weather but you can definitely make sure you’re as prepared as you can be.