Storm Damage Restoration

Storm damage restoration covers the water that gets in when wind, hail or a falling tree breaks the roof, windows or siding: emergency tarping or board-up to stop more water, then extraction, drying and repairs. Make the home safe and watertight first, document everything, and then start the water cleanup.

After the storm

• Stay clear of downed power lines and report them to the utility.
• Don't climb onto a damaged roof. Look from the ground and take photos.
• Cover broken windows and roof openings with tarps or plywood to keep the rain out; your policy expects you to prevent further damage.
• Photograph the outside, every room with water, and damaged belongings before cleanup.
• Keep receipts for tarps, board-up and hotel stays.

What a storm restoration crew does

1. Emergency protection: roof tarping, window board-up, tree removal from the structure.
2. Water removal from ceilings, walls and floors.
3. Drying with dehumidifiers and air movers, tracked with moisture readings.
4. Tear-out of wet drywall, insulation and flooring that can't be saved.
5. Repairs to the roof, siding, windows and interior, sometimes through a separate contractor.

Wind and rain vs. flood

Water that comes in through a storm-damaged roof or window is usually treated as wind or storm damage under a homeowners policy. Water that rises from the ground and flows in is flood, which needs separate flood insurance. The difference affects your claim, so describe exactly how the water got in. For rising water, see flood cleanup.

Watch out for storm chasers

After big storms, out-of-town contractors go door to door. Before you sign:

• Ask for a local address, license number and proof of insurance.
• Get a written estimate and don't pay the full amount up front.
• Don't sign anything that hands over your insurance claim until you've read it.
• Check reviews and how long the company has worked in your area.

Mistakes to avoid

• Waiting for the adjuster before tarping the roof. Stop new water first, then document.
• Throwing away damaged items before photographing them.
• Closing up walls before the cavities are dry.

Related: ceiling water damage and mold remediation.

How to get help now

Use the Get help now button on this page and tell us what happened, where, and how much water is involved. We pass your request to an independent restoration company that serves your area so they can call you back and arrange a visit. Flood Rescue Pros is a free referral service: we don't do the work ourselves, and the company you're matched with sets its own prices, schedule and terms. Ask any company for its licensing, insurance and IICRC certification before you sign anything.