How Do I Know If My Home Is Safe After a Storm?

Your first priority is to spot hazards that could hurt you or your family. Look for downed power lines, especially near water or metal objects. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate immediately and contact your gas utility from outside. Do not touch anything that looks damaged or wet near electrical sources.

Check the structure itself from a safe distance. Look for sagging ceilings, cracked walls, or leaning chimneys. If the roof or walls look unstable, stay out. For minor issues, take photos for your records. Remember, your safety comes before any cleanup or inspection work.

• Downed power lines or sparking wires
• Smell of gas or hissing sounds
• Sagging ceilings or leaning walls
• Standing water in contact with electrical outlets
• Cracks in the foundation or chimney
• Debris blocking exits or entryways

Mold can start growing within a day or two of water exposure. Look for discoloration on walls, ceilings, or furniture, and any fuzzy or slimy patches. A strong earthy odor is another warning sign. If you see or smell mold, avoid touching it, as it can irritate your lungs and skin.

If you or anyone in your home feels unwell, like coughing or headaches, leave the area and see a doctor if symptoms persist. For small mold patches on hard surfaces, you might clean them with soap and water, but for larger areas or if you have health concerns, call a mold professional. They can test air quality and recommend safe removal methods.

Do not attempt to clean mold on porous materials like drywall or insulation; those often need to be removed and replaced.

• Visible discoloration or spots on surfaces
• Musty or earthy smell in the air
• Soft or crumbling drywall or wood
• Health symptoms like coughing or sneezing indoors
• Mold behind furniture or appliances
• Condensation on windows or pipes

Some storm damage is obvious, but much of it is hidden. If you see any signs of water damage, structural issues, or mold, it is wise to have a professional inspection. Local water damage pros can use tools like moisture meters to find damp spots you might miss. They can also help with debris removal and structural drying.

The pros usually start by assessing the damage and explaining what work is involved. They can then help with water extraction, drying out walls and floors, and repairing drywall. The cost depends on the extent of the damage, the materials involved, and how quickly you act.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what storm damage protection you have, and document everything with photos.

• Visible water stains or damp spots
• Structural cracks or shifting
• Persistent musty smell
• Mold growth on any surface
• Electrical system issues
• Debris that is too heavy or dangerous to move yourself