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What Should I Do After a Major Storm Damages My Home?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Prioritize Safety First

Before you do anything else, make sure everyone is safe. If water has entered your home, turn off the electricity at the breaker if you can reach it without standing in water. Watch for downed power lines or gas leaks, and leave the house if you smell gas or see sparks.

If you live in Fresno, keep your shutoff valve location written down. Heavy rain can cause sudden flooding, so know where your main water valve is. Wear rubber boots and gloves when you walk through wet areas, and avoid rooms where the ceiling is sagging or bulging.

  • Turn off electricity if safe
  • Avoid standing water with electronics
  • Check for gas smell or sparks
  • Wear protective gear
  • Stay out of rooms with sagging ceilings

Stop the Water and Protect Items

Once it is safe, try to stop the water at its source. If a broken pipe or roof leak is flooding your home, shut off the main water valve or cover the hole with a tarp. Move furniture, electronics, and important documents to a dry area, and lift rugs or drapes off wet floors.

Use buckets or a wet vacuum to remove standing water if you have one, but do not risk injury. Prop up furniture legs with blocks or foil to keep them dry. Remove wet items that could stain carpets or floors, like books or colored fabrics. The faster you act, the less damage you may face.

Document Everything for Your Claim

Take photos and videos of all water damage, including the source, the affected rooms, and any belongings that got wet. Keep a written list of what was damaged and when. This evidence helps your insurance company understand the situation. Do not throw away damaged items until you have recorded them.

Contact your insurance company as soon as you can to report the damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Ask what they need from you and what steps to take next. Keep records of any receipts for supplies you buy, like tarps or fans.

Dry Out Your Home Thoroughly

Drying your home is critical after a storm. Open windows and doors if the weather allows, and use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air. Remove wet carpet, padding, and drywall if they are soaked, as they can hold moisture and lead to mold growth. Do not wait to start this process.

Water can seep into walls, floors, and hidden spaces, so a simple towel dry is not enough. A water damage inspection can find moisture in places you cannot see, like behind baseboards or under flooring. Professional drying equipment often reaches deeper and dries faster than household fans.

Call in the Pros for Major Damage

For major storm damage, you need professional help. Local water damage pros have the tools and knowledge to handle large-scale flooding, from extracting water to drying out structures. They can also help with storm water cleanup and prevent secondary issues like mold.

Look for a pro who specializes in storm water damage cleanup and water-damaged flooring removal. They can assess the extent of the damage and explain the process. If your drywall is damaged, drywall water damage repair may be needed. Ask questions and get a clear plan before work begins.

  • Water extraction and drying
  • Mold prevention steps
  • Flooring and drywall repair
  • Structural assessment
  • Insurance documentation help

Talk to someone now

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

How soon should I start cleaning up after a storm?

Start as soon as it is safe to do so. The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause, including warped floors and mold growth. Remove standing water and wet items within the first day if possible, and keep air moving with fans.

Can I handle storm water cleanup myself?

Small spills may be manageable, but major storm flooding often requires professional help. Pros have industrial pumps, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to dry hidden areas. Attempting a large cleanup alone can lead to incomplete drying and mold later.

What should I do with wet drywall and carpet?

Remove wet carpet and padding if they are soaked, as they can hold water and grow mold. Wet drywall may need to be cut out, especially if it is saturated. Keep samples for your insurance if needed, but do not leave them in place.

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