by Matt Valvano In the wake of a hurricane, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between assessing damage, dealing with repairs, and navigating insurance claims, knowing where to start is often the most difficult part. Hurricanes can leave behind extensive damage, from water intrusion to structural problems, and the cleanup process requires a systematic approach to ensure the safety of your home and family.
This guide will walk you through what to do after a hurricane, covering everything from initial safety measures and damage assessments to repairs, insurance, and cleanup. If you’re considering selling your home—either before or after dealing with insurance claims—there’s also an option to sell to a trusted buyer who can take it off your hands in any condition.
1. Safety Comes First
The first and most important step after a hurricane is ensuring the safety of everyone in your household. Before returning home, wait for the green light from local authorities, as there can still be hidden dangers even after the storm has passed. Flooded areas, downed power lines, and unstable structures can create hazardous situations, and it’s crucial to follow official guidance.
Once it’s deemed safe to go home, inspect the property carefully for any immediate risks. If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and notify the utility company. Power should be shut off at the breaker if there’s any water inside your home to avoid electrical shocks. Wearing protective gear such as gloves, sturdy boots, and long sleeves is also essential, as debris like sharp objects or contaminated materials may be present.
2. Assessing the Damage
After ensuring your safety, it’s time to assess the damage. This step helps you understand the extent of repairs needed and allows you to prioritize the most urgent tasks. Walk around both the interior and exterior of your home, paying close attention to the roof, windows, and walls. Look for missing or damaged shingles, leaks, cracks, or signs of water infiltration. Also, check for broken windows, warped doors, or structural issues.
Here is a video about what we had to do after the last hurricane. We did this walkthrough on all of our properties to assess the damage. This video goes over what we look for after a major storm:
Inside, water damage is usually the most immediate concern. Flooding or standing water can lead to mold growth and further deterioration if not addressed promptly. If the foundation has visible cracks or shifts, it might signal a larger structural issue. It’s also essential to check your electrical systems, especially if the property has been flooded. Any sign of electrical damage will require a licensed electrician’s evaluation before it’s safe to turn the power back on.
3. Documenting Damage for Insurance Claims
Once you’ve taken stock of the damage, it’s crucial to document everything thoroughly before starting the cleanup process. Photographs and videos of all the affected areas are essential, especially when filing an insurance claim. Ensure your documentation is comprehensive—cover all aspects of the home, including damaged possessions inside, like electronics, furniture, and appliances.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to list each damaged item along with an estimated value. This will come in handy during discussions with your insurance company. Don’t forget to keep track of any receipts for emergency expenses, such as temporary lodging, food, or immediate supplies. Every communication with contractors, including estimates and repair details, should also be saved.
4. Starting the Cleanup Process
Once you’ve documented the damage, you can begin the arduous task of cleaning up. The sheer scale of hurricane cleanup can be overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps will make it easier. Begin by removing large debris from around the house and yard, such as fallen trees or broken branches. Be mindful of hazardous objects like sharp metal or broken glass that may be hidden among the debris.
If your home has standing water, it’s crucial to remove it as quickly as possible. Mold can begin to form within 24-48 hours in wet environments, so ventilate your home by opening windows and using fans or dehumidifiers. Water-soaked items, including carpets, drywall, and insulation, will likely need to be discarded.
After clearing away debris and removing water, clean and disinfect the affected areas. This is essential not just for removing visible dirt but also for eliminating potential health hazards such as bacteria and mold spores. For large-scale mold infestations or water damage, it’s wise to consult a professional cleanup service.
5. Handling Temporary and Permanent Repairs
While it may be tempting to start on permanent repairs right away, it’s important to make temporary fixes first to prevent further damage. For example, tarps should be used to cover any holes in the roof to stop more water from getting inside, and broken windows should be boarded up. These quick, temporary repairs are necessary to secure your home while you plan the more significant, permanent work.
Once your home is stable, you can move forward with long-term repairs. For large or specialized repairs, hiring professional contractors will be necessary. However, before committing to any contractor, make sure to get multiple estimates to compare prices and timelines. Verify that your chosen contractor is licensed and insured. Be cautious—unfortunately, storm-ravaged areas often attract scammers posing as contractors, so research any company thoroughly before signing a contract.
6. Managing Water and Mold Damage
One of the most pressing issues after a hurricane is dealing with water damage. Whether it’s from rainwater, storm surges, or broken plumbing, water can cause lasting harm to your home. The longer moisture is left unattended, the higher the chance of mold growth, which can begin within just a day or two of exposure.
The first step in managing water damage is to dry out your home completely. Pumps, wet/dry vacuums, and professional drying services can help remove standing water. Once the water is gone, dehumidifiers and fans should be used to ensure everything dries out properly. Be especially vigilant for signs of mold—these can appear on walls, ceilings, and floors.
If mold growth has already occurred, you should consult a professional mold remediation service. Mold can be a serious health hazard, and attempting to clean it up without the proper equipment and expertise can lead to further issues. Use mold-resistant cleaning products when sanitizing any hard surfaces that have come into contact with water.
7. Dealing with Insurance Companies
One of the most frustrating aspects of recovering from a hurricane is working with insurance companies. Filing a claim promptly is the first step—don’t wait too long to notify your insurer of the damage. Familiarize yourself with your policy so that you understand what is covered, and be prepared to advocate for the full compensation you’re entitled to.
When the insurance adjuster visits your home, walk them through every area of damage. Be thorough in explaining the scope of repairs needed, and provide them with the documentation you’ve gathered. Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company, and follow up regularly to ensure your claim is moving forward.
8. Understanding the Scope of Repairs
Repairing a hurricane-damaged home is a major undertaking, and it’s important to understand the full scope of work required. The extent of repairs will depend on the severity of the damage, but common areas to focus on include:
- Roof repairs: High winds and flying debris can easily damage roofs, making them a top priority. Missing shingles, holes, and sagging are all signs that your roof may need to be repaired or replaced.
- Structural repairs: If your home has suffered significant damage to its foundation or walls, these repairs will be crucial for safety. Structural issues should always be handled by professionals with experience in disaster recovery.
- Electrical and plumbing systems: If your home was flooded, it’s essential to have both your electrical and plumbing systems inspected. Floodwaters can short out wiring and damage pipes, leading to potentially dangerous conditions.
- Interior finishes: Flooring, drywall, and insulation are often the most visibly damaged parts of a home after a hurricane. Once the structural and electrical systems have been repaired, these interior finishes can be addressed.
9. Considering Selling Your Hurricane-Damaged Home
While some homeowners may prefer to restore their homes, others may find the prospect of managing the repairs, insurance claims, and contractors overwhelming. If you feel that way, you might consider selling your home as-is. Many buyers specialize in purchasing homes that have suffered hurricane damage, providing you with an alternative option to the long, costly repair process.
Selling your hurricane-damaged home offers several benefits. It can save you the hassle of coordinating contractors and dealing with insurance companies. Additionally, it allows you to sell quickly—often in a matter of weeks—without making any repairs. This is a particularly attractive option for homeowners who need to relocate or are looking for a fresh start after the disaster.
Call to Action: Sell Your Home in Any Condition—Before or After Dealing with Insurance
Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane can be overwhelming. From navigating insurance claims to managing extensive repairs, the process can be long and stressful. However, there’s an alternative. If you’re thinking of selling your home—whether it’s before you’ve handled insurance or after—our team can help.
We buy homes in any condition, which means you don’t have to worry about making repairs or waiting for long insurance settlements. Whether you’re looking for a quick sale to move on from the devastation or just want to avoid the stress of the cleanup process, we’re here to provide a fast, hassle-free solution.
Contact us today to discuss how we can make an offer on your home, regardless of its current condition. Let us take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on moving forward.