The short answer
Ensure Personal Safety First
Before checking your property, make sure everyone is accounted for and unharmed. Stay away from downed power lines, standing water that could be electrified, and any visibly damaged structural elements of your home. If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and contact the utility company from a safe distance. Your physical safety is the absolute priority in the immediate aftermath of a storm.
Put on sturdy shoes, long pants, and gloves before walking through debris. Be cautious of broken glass, exposed nails, and slippery surfaces. Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with medical needs, if it is safe to do so. Keep a battery-powered radio handy for emergency updates and instructions from local authorities.
Assess and Document the Damage
Once it is safe, perform a careful walk-through of your property. Look for obvious signs of damage like missing shingles, broken windows, and water intrusion. Do not enter areas with sagging ceilings or compromised floors. Your initial assessment helps you communicate clearly with your insurance company and the local water damage pros you may need to call.
Take thorough photographs and videos of all damage, both inside and out. Capture wide shots for context and close-ups for detail. Make a written list of damaged items and structural problems. This documentation is crucial for your insurance claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so provide them with a complete record.
Address Water Intrusion Quickly
If storm water entered your home, act quickly to limit secondary damage. Remove as much standing water as you safely can with buckets or a wet-dry vacuum. Move furniture and valuables to a dry area. Place aluminum foil under furniture legs on wet carpet to prevent staining. These initial steps can help while you wait for the pros to begin their detailed assessment.
Promote air circulation by opening windows and doors if the weather permits. Use fans to help dry the air, but be aware that moving air over wet materials can spread mold spores if mold is already present. The goal is to stabilize the environment until a professional inspection determines the full scope of the water damage and the proper drying plan.
- Remove soaked rugs, curtains, and upholstery from the affected area.
- Wipe down wet surfaces like countertops and cabinets to prevent watermarks.
- Check for hidden moisture in closets, under beds, and behind furniture.
- Empty and dry out any cabinets or drawers that got wet.
- Pull back wet carpeting from the tack strip if possible to allow airflow underneath.
- Discard any water-damaged food items or medicines for safety.
Prevent Further Damage and Mold
Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours in warm, humid conditions. After removing excess water, focus on reducing humidity. If power is safe, run your air conditioner and dehumidifiers. Remove wet drywall insulation and discard it, as it cannot be dried effectively. Porous materials like cardboard and fabric that stay wet for over two days likely need disposal.
Separate wet items to allow them to air dry. Do not pile wet materials together, as this traps moisture. Be mindful of your health; wear an N95 mask and gloves when handling debris or materials that may contain mold. If you see visible mold growth or smell a musty odor, a mold professional may need to assess the situation after the initial water extraction and drying are complete.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Bradenton and nearby communities.
Call Now (941) 352-9167Frequently asked questions
Should I try to repair the roof damage myself?
No, you should only make temporary repairs to prevent further water entry, like using a tarp. Permanent roof repairs require a qualified roofer for safety and to ensure the work meets building codes. A botched repair can lead to more extensive water damage inside your home.
What if the power is out in my home?
Use flashlights, not candles, to avoid fire risk. Unplug major appliances and electronics to protect them from power surges when electricity is restored. If you use a generator, operate it outdoors and far from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. A professional can assess any water damage to electrical systems.
How do I know if I need professional water damage cleanup?
You likely need pros if water has spread over a large area, seeped into walls or subfloors, or if you suspect contamination from floodwater or sewage. They have industrial-grade equipment to dry structures thoroughly, which is critical to prevent mold and costly long-term damage.