How to Survey Your Home For Storm Damage

By Rowan Guthrie

June 01, 2018

Major storms, such as hurricanes, tornadoes and blizzards, can wreak havoc on homes, causing damage that may not be obvious. Once the immediate danger has passed and your loved ones are safe, your primary concern is probably to assess the damage to your home.

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While a professional inspection is often necessary for a full evaluation, you can also conduct a preliminary survey to identify potential issues and prioritize repairs. This might be something you have no experience with, so here’s a step-by-step guide to help you survey your home for storm damage.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Home Has Suffered Damage in a Storm?

Think safety first. Don’t enter your home until you know it’s reasonably safe. From a safe distance, visually check for downed power lines, fallen trees and structural instability. If you see any immediate hazards, contact emergency services right away. Don’t begin the inspection until you’re sure it’s okay to proceed.

Step by Step: How to Survey Your Home for Damage After a Storm

Every inspection begins outside before moving indoors. Let’s look at each stage in more detail.

Exterior Inspection

  • Roof: Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, cracks or holes. Look for signs of windblown debris lodged in the gutters or on the roof itself. Be mindful that damaged flashing around chimneys or vents might indicate potential leaks.

  • Siding and windows: Check your siding for cracks, dents or loose panels. Inspect windows and doors for broken glass, warped frames or difficulty opening or closing. Be careful when moving doors as they might be on the verge of collapse and your actions could dislodge them.

  • Foundation: Look for cracks in the foundation and signs of water seepage. Pay close attention to areas around basement windows and crawl spaces.

  • Garage, sheds and outbuildings: Examine any detached structures for damage to the roof, walls or doors. As previously mentioned, be careful when moving bigger debris to avoid causing it to collapse. If in doubt, don’t touch it.

Interior Inspection

  • Each room in your home: Walk through every room, checking for water stains on ceilings, walls and floors. Look for warped floorboards, cracks in the drywall and signs of mold growth. Pay close attention to areas near windows and doors, where these signs may be more apparent.

  • Attic and basement: Inspect your attic and basement for signs of water intrusion. Common signs include dampness, mold and visible leaks. Listen for running water, as it may be out of sight but still there.

  • Appliances: Check major appliances, such as your washer, dryer, water heater and HVAC system, for signs of water damage. If it’s safe to do so, test them to see if they're malfunctioning.

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Signs of Storm Damage You May Not See Right Away

While some storm damage is readily apparent, other signs may be more subtle and emerge over time. Here are a few things to watch out for:

  • Water damage: Even small leaks can lead to significant water damage if left unchecked. Look for discoloration on walls and ceilings, peeling wallpaper and warped floorboards.

  • Mold growth: Damp environments caused by leaks or poor ventilation can create ideal conditions for mold growth. Take note of musty odors or visible mold colonies.

  • Structural issues: Cracks in the foundation are often serious, so don’t ignore them. Sagging ceilings and uneven floors can indicate structural damage caused by wind or falling debris.

  • Electrical issues: Power surges or downed power lines can damage electrical wiring. Be cautious of flickering lights, sparks from outlets and any electrical variances that seem strange.

  • Damaged trees: It’s not unusual for fallen trees to damage roofs and driveways. However, trees still standing may be at risk of collapse, so check them out and call a professional if they need to be removed.

Remember, even seemingly minor damage can worsen over time. It's important to address potential issues promptly to prevent further problems and ensure the safety and integrity of your home.

Additional Tips

  • Take pictures of all the damage you find before making any repairs, as you’ll need this documentation when filing an insurance claim.

  • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and initiate the claims process.

  • If you suspect significant structural damage, consult a qualified professional for a thorough evaluation.

By following these steps and remaining vigilant, you can effectively survey your home for storm damage and take the necessary actions to ensure a safe and swift recovery.

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