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What Should I Do When I Return Home After a Hurricane?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Approach Your Property with Extreme Caution

Walk around the exterior first to look for obvious hazards. Check for damaged gas lines, unstable trees, or downed electrical wires that could pose immediate danger. Do not enter if you smell gas or see significant structural compromise to walls or the roof. Wait for authorities to declare the area safe before proceeding inside your home.

Look for signs of flooding or water intrusion from the outside. High water marks on siding or windows indicate potential interior damage. Check if doors are jammed, which could signal foundation shifting or water pressure. Storm surge or heavy rain can cause water to pool around your foundation, even after the storm has passed.

Initial Steps Inside Your Home

Enter carefully and avoid using open flames or electrical switches if you suspect a gas leak. Wear sturdy boots, gloves, and a mask to protect yourself from contaminants and debris. Your first task is to ensure the main utilities are safe to use or need to be shut off by a qualified professional.

If the power is out, use a battery-powered flashlight, not candles. Check your electrical panel and main water valve. If any wiring is submerged or the panel is damaged, contact an electrician before restoring power. Shut off the main water supply if you find broken pipes to prevent further flooding.

  • Document all damage with clear photos and video before touching anything.
  • Move undamaged, valuable items to a dry, safe area if possible.
  • Avoid contact with any standing water, which may contain sewage or chemicals.
  • Increase ventilation by opening windows if it is safe and dry outside.
  • Begin removing soaked, porous items like carpets and upholstery.
  • Place aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent staining wet floors.

Addressing Water Damage Quickly

Standing water and soaked materials must be removed promptly to limit structural damage and mold growth. Mold can begin to develop within 24 to 48 hours in a humid environment. Do not attempt to pump out deep floodwater yourself if the electrical system is compromised. Local water damage pros have the equipment to extract water and assess hidden moisture in walls and floors.

Start drying the home by using fans and dehumidifiers if electricity is safe and available. Focus on removing moisture from the air to protect wood framing and drywall. Pull back wet carpeting and remove padding, which cannot be effectively dried. Discard saturated items that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried, such as mattresses and particleboard furniture.

Contact your insurance company to report the damage and start the claims process. Provide the documentation you collected and keep a detailed list of damaged or lost items. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Do not dispose of major damaged items until an adjuster has seen them, unless they pose a health risk.

For significant water intrusion, professional assessment and drying are critical. Water can wick up drywall and soak insulation, leading to hidden problems. The pros use moisture meters and infrared cameras to find all affected areas. They follow industry standards for drying to help prevent secondary damage and costly future repairs.

Preventing Health Hazards and Mold

Assume all floodwater is contaminated. Wear personal protective equipment when handling debris or wet items. Hard surfaces can be cleaned with a bleach solution, but porous materials that have been soaked may need disposal. If you develop respiratory issues or feel unwell after cleaning, see a doctor. Mold professionals can test for and remediate mold if it becomes a visible problem.

The humid environment after a major storm can slow natural drying and encourage mold. Maintain airflow with fans and dehumidifiers running continuously during the initial recovery phase. Monitor for a musty odor or discoloration on walls, which are signs of hidden mold growth. Addressing moisture completely now is the best defense against future indoor air quality issues.

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Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to prevent mold after a flood?

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours on wet materials. Rapid water removal and drying are essential. The humid environment after a storm accelerates this timeline, making professional-grade drying equipment important for preventing widespread contamination.

Will my homeowner's insurance cover hurricane flood damage?

Standard policies often exclude flood damage from storms or rising water. You likely need a separate flood insurance policy for this coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy documents and speak directly with your insurance agent.

Can I clean up the water damage myself?

For small amounts of clean water, you may handle it with wet vacuums and fans. Extensive flooding, contaminated water, or water inside walls requires professional equipment and expertise to dry properly and prevent structural rot or mold.

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