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What Should You Do Immediately After Storm Damage?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First After a Storm

Your first step is to keep yourself and your family out of harm's way. Do not enter a room where water has reached electrical outlets or where you see frayed wires. If the ceiling is sagging or walls are bulging, that area is not safe to walk under. Turn off the power at the breaker if you can do so without stepping in water.

Watch for slippery floors and hidden debris, especially if the storm broke windows or tore off roofing. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the house and call the gas company from outside. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure to floodwater, which can carry bacteria or chemicals.

Stop the Water at the Source

If the storm caused a leak through the roof or a broken pipe, shut off the main water valve to stop more water from entering your home. Keep a written note of where that valve is located, so you can find it quickly in the dark. If the water is coming from outside, such as through a foundation crack, you may not be able to stop it yourself.

Move valuable items to a dry spot on a higher floor or on top of tables and counters. Lift rugs and furniture off wet carpet to prevent staining and to allow air to reach the flooring. If you live in Newark, keep your shutoff valve location written down near the meter for easy reference.

  • Turn off the main water valve if safe
  • Move electronics and documents to high ground
  • Lift rugs and furniture off wet carpets
  • Open windows for ventilation if weather allows
  • Do not use electrical appliances near water

Document the Damage for Insurance

Take photos and videos of every wet area, including the ceiling, walls, floors, and any personal belongings. Capture the water level and any visible cracks or missing shingles. Write down the date and time the storm hit and when you first noticed the damage. This record helps your insurance adjuster understand the situation.

Keep receipts for any emergency purchases, like a wet vacuum rental or a tarp to cover a broken roof. Do not throw away damaged items until your insurance company has had a chance to review them. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so check your policy for deadlines on filing a claim.

Start Drying and Cleaning Safely

Once you have documented everything, begin removing standing water with a mop, towels, or a wet vacuum. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the area, but only if it is safe to use electricity. Open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation, which helps reduce moisture and slows mold growth.

Wear rubber gloves and a mask while cleaning, especially if the water may be contaminated. Throw out porous items like soaked mattresses, pillows, and cardboard boxes that cannot be dried thoroughly. Wash hard surfaces with soap and water, and disinfect them with a bleach solution if the flooding came from outside.

Know When to Call the Pros

Some damage is too extensive for a homeowner to handle alone. If water has soaked into drywall, insulation, or structural wood, it needs professional drying to prevent mold and rot. If you are unsure about the extent of the damage, a professional inspection can help you understand what is hidden behind walls and under floors.

The pros can assess the moisture level, document the loss for your insurance claim, and begin the cleanup process. They have industrial-grade equipment that dries materials faster and more thoroughly than household fans. For storm-related water damage, calling for help early can reduce the long-term impact on your home.

  • Water has soaked into drywall or insulation
  • Standing water is deeper than a few inches
  • You smell a musty odor, indicating mold
  • The power is out and you cannot dry safely
  • You are unsure how to safely remove debris

Water damage does not wait

Call (973) 846-1705 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to file a storm damage claim?

Most insurance policies set a deadline for filing a claim, often within a few days to a year. Check your policy documents or call your agent to confirm the exact timeframe. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so act quickly to protect your rights.

Can I clean up storm water myself?

You can handle small, clean water spills with towels and fans. But if the water comes from outside, it may be contaminated and require professional cleaning. If the damage is extensive or involves drywall or wood, the pros have the right equipment to dry and sanitize properly.

What should I do with wet furniture?

Move wet furniture to a dry area if possible, and remove cushions and drawers to let air circulate. Do not try to dry wooden pieces too fast, as that can cause warping. A furniture restoration professional can often save items that seem beyond repair, depending on the material and water type.

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