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What Is the First Step After Your Home Gets Hurricane Damage?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

After a major storm, your home may have hidden dangers. Do not walk through standing water if you suspect electrical wires are down. Check for gas leaks by smell, and if you notice one, leave the house and call the gas company from outside.

Wear sturdy shoes and gloves when you enter. Look for sagging ceilings or loose debris that could fall. If you feel unwell or have trouble breathing, see a doctor. Your health matters more than any belongings.

If you live in Bellingham, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly after a storm.

  • Turn off gas only if you smell a leak
  • Shut off electricity from a dry location
  • Avoid floodwater that may be contaminated
  • Check for structural cracks before entering

Document Everything

Once you are safe, take photos and videos of every damaged area. Capture wide shots of each room and close-ups of specific problems like water stains or broken windows. Write down the date and time of the storm and when you noticed the damage.

Keep receipts for any emergency supplies you buy, such as tarps or fans. This documentation is useful for your insurance claim and helps the local water damage pros assess what work is needed. Do not throw away damaged items until you have recorded them.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Photograph each room from multiple angles
  • Video record water levels and damaged furniture
  • List every damaged item with its approximate value
  • Save all receipts for temporary repairs

Stop Further Damage

After documenting, take simple steps to prevent more harm. Cover broken windows with plywood or plastic sheeting. Move furniture and rugs to a dry area if you can lift them safely. This reduces the chance of mold and additional water absorption.

Do not attempt major structural repairs yourself. Focus on temporary measures that protect your home while you wait for professional help. If water is still entering, try to divert it with sandbags or towels, but only if it is safe to do so.

  • Use tarps to cover roof holes
  • Prop up wet furniture to allow air flow
  • Remove soaked area rugs from wet floors
  • Open windows for ventilation if weather permits

Call the Pros for Help

After you have secured the property and documented the damage, contact the pros. They can inspect the extent of the water intrusion and recommend the right cleanup approach. Their work usually involves drying, sanitizing, and assessing what can be saved.

You may also need a mold professional if water sat for more than a day or two. Do not wait too long, because damp materials can grow mold quickly. Acting fast gives you a better chance of saving your belongings and avoiding costly repairs.

Work Through Insurance

Contact your insurance company as soon as you can to report the storm damage. They will explain what documentation they need and how the claims process works. Keep a log of every call and email you exchange with them.

Your insurance adjuster may visit your home to assess the damage. Share your photos and notes with them. The pros can also provide a detailed assessment of the water damage, which you can submit to your insurer. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Talk to someone now

Call (360) 685-7801 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

Call Now (360) 685-7801

Frequently asked questions

Should I wait for the storm to fully pass before entering my home?

Yes, wait until the storm has passed and local officials say it is safe. Floodwater and wind can still pose dangers. Once you enter, wear protective gear and move carefully through each room, checking for hazards as you go.

Can I clean up the water myself?

Small amounts of clean water can be handled with towels and a wet vacuum. But if the water came from flooding or sewage, leave it to the pros. They have the right equipment to dry and sanitize large areas safely.

How soon should I start drying out my home?

Start within a day if possible. The longer wet materials sit, the higher the chance of mold and structural damage. Remove standing water and open windows if weather allows, but let the pros handle deep drying and cleanup.

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