What Are the First Steps After Storm Damages Your Home?

Your first priority is safety for everyone in the home. Stay clear of any standing water that could be in contact with electricity. Avoid rooms with sagging ceilings, and do not enter a structure that appears unstable. Wait for qualified personnel to address downed power lines or major gas leaks before you approach the property.

Once you have confirmed it is safe, you can take steps to prevent more damage. If a broken pipe is the source, locate and turn off your main water shutoff valve. If the roof is compromised, you may need to temporarily cover holes with a tarp. These actions can help limit the amount of water entering your home before help gets there.

If a safe amount of standing water is present, you can start removing it. Use a wet-dry vacuum, mops, and towels to extract as much water as possible. Move undamaged furniture and belongings to a dry area. Open windows and doors, if weather permits, to increase airflow and help start the drying process for surfaces.

However, water often hides in walls and under floors. For proper drying, local water damage pros use industrial equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers. They perform moisture mapping to find all wet areas. Attempting to dry your home completely on your own often leads to missed moisture and later mold problems.

• Remove standing water with a wet-dry vacuum or mop.
• Move furniture and rugs from wet floors to prevent staining.
• Open windows and use fans to improve air circulation.
• Wipe down wet surfaces like countertops and baseboards.
• Pull up wet carpeting from tack strips if possible.
• Place aluminum foil between wet carpet and furniture legs.

You should call local water damage pros for significant flooding, sewage backup, or when water has affected multiple rooms. They have the tools to extract water quickly, dry structural materials thoroughly, and prevent mold growth. If you see signs of mold, such as a musty smell or visible growth, you may need a separate mold assessment from a qualified professional.

The cost for water damage restoration depends on the extent of the damage, the size of the affected area, and the materials involved. It often ranges from a few thousand dollars for a single room to much more for whole-house flooding. The pros can provide a detailed assessment and explain the necessary steps for your specific situation.