10/09/2026
The storm passed. You're ready to clean up. Wait.
Before you start moving debris or making repairs, take a few important steps:
• Document the damage. Take wide photos, close-ups, and video of your home, belongings, vehicles, fences, sheds, and anything else affected.
• Save your receipts. Keep records of temporary repairs, supplies, hotel stays, meals, contractor estimates, and other expenses that may be relevant to your claim.
• Contact your insurer. Get your claim number, adjuster information, and instructions for documenting and repairing the damage.
• Make temporary repairs when necessary. Cover a broken window or damaged roof to prevent further damage, but photograph it first and keep your receipts.
• Hold off on permanent repairs. When possible, let the insurer inspect the damage before making major repairs.
• Know what caused the damage. Wind and flood damage may fall under different policies. Storm surge and other flooding are generally not covered by a standard homeowners policy.
And most importantly: don't put yourself in danger for the sake of your property. Downed power lines, floodwater, gas leaks, and unstable structures can remain dangerous long after a storm has passed.
The cleanup can wait. Your safety and your documentation come first.