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What Are Property Manager Responsibilities for Storm Damage?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

First Steps After a Storm

When a storm hits your property, your first responsibility is safety. Check for obvious hazards like downed power lines, broken glass, or standing water near electrical outlets. If anyone feels unwell or is injured, see a doctor or call emergency services right away.

After ensuring safety, document the damage thoroughly. Take photos and videos of every affected area, including walls, floors, ceilings, and personal belongings. This record helps your insurance company understand the scope of the loss. Also, note the date and time of the storm and any actions you take afterward.

Protecting the Building

Your next responsibility is to prevent additional damage. If it is safe, cover broken windows with plywood or tarps to keep rain out. Move valuable items to a dry area, and if water is still entering, try to stop the source, like turning off the main water valve if a pipe burst.

Be careful with electricity. If water has reached outlets or appliances, turn off the power at the breaker only if you can do so without standing in water. Otherwise, call an electrician. Your priority is to stabilize the situation until the pros begin water extraction and drying.

  • Take photos of all damage before cleanup
  • Shut off water or electricity if safe
  • Move furniture and valuables to dry areas
  • Cover openings to keep out rain
  • Save receipts for any emergency supplies

Contacting Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the storm. Provide them with your documentation and a clear description of the damage. They will guide you on what to do next, including whether to wait for an adjuster before making permanent repairs.

Keep a log of all communications with your insurer, including names, dates, and what was discussed. This helps if questions come up later. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Be honest about the extent of the damage, and ask about your deductible and any deadlines for filing a claim.

Coordinating Repairs and Cleanup

Once the immediate dangers are handled, you need to arrange for water damage restoration. Local water damage pros can extract standing water, dry out the building, and prevent mold growth. You do not need to do this work yourself, but you should coordinate access and communicate with the building owner.

Before any work begins, get a clear plan from the pros about what they will do and how long it may take. Ask about their process for drying, cleaning, and sanitizing affected areas. Also, discuss how they will handle disposal of damaged materials like drywall or carpet. This keeps everyone on the same page.

  • Schedule water extraction and drying quickly
  • Ask about mold prevention steps
  • Confirm access times with occupants
  • Keep the owner informed of progress
  • Review the scope of work before it starts

Managing Tenant Communication

If the property has tenants, you are the main point of contact. Tell them about the storm damage, what steps are being taken, and any temporary disruptions like water shutoffs or power outages. Clear communication reduces confusion and helps everyone stay safe.

Provide tenants with instructions on what to do and what not to touch. For example, warn them to avoid flooded areas and to report any additional damage they notice. Also, let them know who to contact for questions. Keeping tenants informed can also help you spot issues early, such as a leak that was not obvious at first.

Water damage does not wait

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Frequently asked questions

How soon should I call the pros after storm damage?

Act quickly. The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause, including structural weakening and mold growth. Call the pros as soon as you have documented the scene and ensured safety. Early action can reduce the extent of repairs needed.

What should I do with wet personal belongings?

Remove items that can be saved, like clothing or books, and dry them if possible. Do not throw away anything until your insurance company has been notified, as they may need to assess the loss. Keep a list of damaged items for your claim.

Can I do the cleanup myself?

You can handle small, safe tasks like moving furniture or drying surfaces. However, major water damage requires professional equipment and expertise. Attempting to dry out a building yourself can lead to hidden mold and structural issues. Let the pros handle the heavy work.

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