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Emergency Storm Damage Repairs: What Comes First

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First Steps

Your safety is the priority after storm damage. If water has reached electrical outlets or appliances, shut off the main breaker only if you can do so without standing in water. Have an electrician check the system before restoring power.

Avoid entering rooms with sagging ceilings or exposed wires. Wear rubber boots and gloves. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the building and contact the gas company from outside. See a doctor if you feel unwell from any exposure.

Stop Active Water Entry

The next step is to stop more water from coming in. If the roof has a hole, use a tarp to cover it temporarily. For broken windows, board them up with plywood. These are emergency measures to reduce further soaking.

The pros can handle emergency tarping and board-up services. You can also place buckets under drips and move furniture away from wet areas. Every hour of continued water entry adds to the damage.

  • Turn off electricity at the main panel if safe
  • Shut off the main water valve to stop internal leaks
  • Move rugs, furniture, and valuables to dry areas
  • Use tarps or plywood to cover roof and window openings
  • Document all damage with photos and notes

Remove Standing Water

Standing water soaks into drywall, wood, and insulation within hours. Use a wet/dry vacuum or pump to remove as much water as you can. The longer water sits, the more structural and mold damage you risk.

For heavy flooding, the pros have industrial pumps and extraction equipment. They can remove water from carpets, subfloors, and crawl spaces quickly and safely.

Dry Out the Structure

After removing standing water, the goal is to dry the building thoroughly. Open windows and use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air. Remove wet drywall and insulation if they are saturated, as they will not dry properly and can harbor mold.

The pros can assess which materials need removal and which can be dried in place. They will set up drying equipment and monitor moisture levels. This step is critical to prevent secondary damage like warped floors or mold growth.

  • Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed drying
  • Pull up wet carpet and padding
  • Cut out saturated drywall in large pieces
  • Remove wet insulation from walls and attics
  • Wipe down surfaces with a mild detergent

Document and Contact Your Insurer

Take photos and videos of all damage before any cleanup. Keep receipts for emergency supplies and temporary repairs. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what is included. Have a list of damaged items and their approximate value ready. This documentation helps you and the pros plan the full repair work.

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Frequently asked questions

How soon should I call for help after a storm?

Act quickly after ensuring safety. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes. The pros can begin extraction and drying within hours, which reduces the chance of mold and structural issues. Do not wait for insurance approval before starting emergency measures.

Can I do the emergency repairs myself?

You can handle simple tasks like tarping a small hole or removing wet rugs. However, major water extraction, electrical safety checks, and structural drying require professional equipment and knowledge. Attempting complex repairs without training can be dangerous. Call the pros for anything beyond basic cleanup.

What should I do with soaked drywall and insulation?

If drywall or insulation is wet, it usually needs to be removed because it will not dry properly and can grow mold. Cut out affected sections and discard them. The pros can assess how much to remove and will help with proper disposal and replacement after the area is dry.

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