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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

Safety First: Your Initial Approach

Wait for an official all-clear before attempting to return to your neighborhood. Roads may be blocked or flooded, and hidden hazards like submerged debris are common. Do not drive through standing water, as it can be deeper than it appears and may hide road washouts. Your safety is more important than reaching your home quickly.

Inspect the exterior from a distance first. Look for obvious signs of danger such as a shifted foundation, missing roof sections, or trees leaning on the structure. Downed power lines are extremely hazardous; always assume they are live. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the area immediately and call the utility company from a safe distance.

Securing the Property and Utilities

If the structure appears sound and it is safe to enter, shut off the main utilities. Turn off the electricity at the main breaker panel to prevent shock, especially if there is standing water inside. Locate the main gas shutoff valve and turn it to the off position. If you live in Nashville, keep your shutoff valve location written down for quick access.

Shut off the main water valve to prevent additional flooding from broken pipes. Open windows and doors if it is safe to do so to promote air circulation and begin drying the interior. Be aware that interior hazards like sagging ceilings or buckling floors may not be immediately visible. Move slowly and test floors before putting your full weight on them.

Documenting the Damage for Insurance

Before you move or disturb anything, create a comprehensive visual record. Use your phone or camera to take clear, well-lit photos and videos of all affected areas and damaged possessions. Capture wide shots of rooms and close-ups of specific damage to walls, floors, and appliances. This documentation is crucial for your insurance claim process.

Write detailed notes to accompany your photos. List each damaged item, its approximate age, and its value if known. Note the source of water if it is visible, such as a roof leak or broken window. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep all receipts for temporary repairs or supplies you purchase, as they may be reimbursable.

  • Photograph structural damage to roofs, walls, and foundations.
  • Video pan across entire rooms to show the full scope.
  • Take close-up shots of water lines on walls and damaged personal items.
  • Document serial numbers on major appliances and electronics.
  • Note the date and time on all photos and videos.
  • Keep a separate list of damaged items with descriptions.

Initial Cleanup and Mitigation Steps

Remove standing water as soon as it is safe to do so. Use a wet-dry vacuum, pumps, or buckets, but only if the electrical system has been confirmed off. Extract as much water as possible to limit further saturation of building materials. Move wet furniture and rugs to a dry area, and prop up upholstered cushions to aid drying.

Begin removing unsalvageable, saturated items like cardboard boxes and ruined carpets to prevent mold growth. Wipe down metal surfaces and furniture legs to prevent rust. Do not use household fans if visible mold is already present, as this can spread spores. For significant water intrusion, the drying process requires professional equipment to prevent hidden moisture and mold.

When to Call for Professional Help

For any major flooding, structural compromise, or if water has been present for over 24 hours, contact local water damage pros. They have the tools for thorough water extraction, structural drying, and moisture mapping to find hidden dampness. Attempting a large-scale dry-out yourself often misses moisture inside walls and under floors, leading to mold and rot.

Specialized situations also require experts. Historic homes need careful techniques to preserve original materials. Contaminated water from sewers or floodwaters requires specific safety protocols. If you see or smell mold, a mold assessment by a qualified professional is needed before reconstruction. The pros can help secure your home and guide the restoration process.

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Frequently asked questions

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

Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. Your priority is to remove water and increase airflow quickly. For extensive flooding, professional structural drying is often needed to dry wall cavities and subfloors thoroughly enough to prevent mold.

Will my homeowner's insurance cover hurricane damage?

Coverage depends entirely on your specific policy. Wind damage is often covered, but flood damage typically requires a separate flood insurance policy. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy documents and contact your insurance company to start a claim.

Is it safe to stay in my home after water damage?

It may not be safe if there is structural damage, electrical hazards, or contaminated water. Significant moisture can also make air quality poor. If in doubt, stay elsewhere until a professional can assess the safety and dryness of the structure.

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