Have you ever looked around your neighborhood after a storm and wondered what to do next? When a powerful storm hits, the damage can be overwhelming, especially for homeowners. Whether you live in Brentwood or anywhere else across the U.S., knowing how to respond safely and effectively after the storm clears can make a big difference. Home recovery isn’t just about fixing visible damage —it’s also about making sure your family is safe, your home is livable, and your future is protected.
In this article, we will share helpful tips for getting your home and life back on track after a storm.
Start with Safety First
Your safety and your family’s safety come before anything else. After a storm, hazards might not be obvious. Broken glass, sharp debris, exposed wires, and even gas leaks can all pose serious risks. Before entering your home, make sure it is safe. If there’s standing water, wear boots to avoid harmful bacteria. Avoid turning on electrical systems if you suspect water damage inside. Call professionals if you’re unsure.
If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the area immediately and call the gas company or emergency services. Avoid using candles or matches until you know there are no gas leaks. Once you confirm your home is safe to enter, move slowly and check for any weak spots in the floors, ceilings, or walls. If anything feels unstable, don’t go near it. Safety always comes first.
Check for Hidden Damage
After confirming your home is safe, begin checking for hidden damage. Even if everything looks fine on the surface, storms often cause problems inside walls, ceilings, or under floors. Start with the roof. Look for missing shingles or leaks. Check the attic for water stains or insulation that feels damp. Storms can cause roof damage that isn’t always easy to spot.
Storm restoration in Brentwood usually looks like dealing with wind damage, water intrusion, and mold growth. Windows and doors might look fine, but could have broken seals or small cracks. Water could seep in and create mold if left unnoticed. Also, check outdoor systems like HVAC units, fencing, and siding. Taking photos of all the damage is important if you plan to file an insurance claim. Documenting it now will save you stress later.
Call Your Insurance Company Quickly
Once you’ve gathered details about the damage, it’s time to reach out to your homeowner’s insurance company. Most policies require you to notify them soon after a loss. Don’t wait too long. Provide them with photos and notes you took about the damage. Be clear and organized when you explain what happened. If repairs are urgent, like a broken window or a hole in the roof, ask the insurance provider about what to do before you make fixes.
Your insurance company might send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Walk them through the areas you checked and show them the pictures. Ask questions if you’re unsure about your coverage or next steps. This process can feel overwhelming, but staying calm and organized will help move it along. Keep copies of all communication with the insurance company in case you need to refer to them later.
Start Cleanup and Remove Damaged Items
Cleaning up after a storm can be physically and emotionally draining. Begin by removing damaged items like soaked carpets, wet furniture, and broken objects. These can hold moisture and become breeding grounds for mold. Be careful not to throw everything away too quickly. Your insurance adjuster may need to see some of the items before you dispose of them.
Sort items into categories — what can be cleaned, what needs to be thrown out, and what might be covered by insurance. Use gloves and face masks when dealing with mold or dirty water. Bag up debris safely and follow your city’s disposal guidelines. In some cases, there may be special instructions for disposing of certain materials, like electronics or hazardous waste. If your home feels too overwhelming to clean alone, reach out for local help or hire cleanup services. In some cases the damage is well beyond what one person can deal with alone, such as when using Tree Tech Inc. to remove fallen lumber from your garden space, tangled in with parts of the damaged property.
Prevent Mold from Spreading
Mold grows quickly after water damage, especially in warm, damp places. After a storm, you’ll want to dry out affected areas as fast as possible. Open windows if the weather allows. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners to help dry the space. Pull up wet carpets and remove baseboards if needed. Pay close attention to places behind furniture or inside cabinets where moisture can hide.
If mold has already started to grow, you might need professional help. Mold can spread through the air and cause health problems, especially for people with asthma or allergies. Don’t try to bleach mold-covered surfaces without proper protection. Use cleaners approved for mold removal and wear gloves and masks. Keep kids and pets out of moldy areas until they’re safe again. Controlling mold early can save time, money, and stress later.
Repair What’s Needed and Hire Reliable Help
Once cleanup is under control, start repairs. Small things like patching drywall or replacing broken windows might be doable on your own. But for major repairs — like fixing roofs, replacing siding, or working on electrical systems — it’s smart to hire licensed professionals. Ask for referrals, read reviews, and make sure the contractor is insured and experienced with storm repairs.
Be cautious about people who show up offering services after a storm. Some may not be trustworthy. Always ask for written estimates and don’t pay everything upfront. A reliable company will explain its process, give you a timeline, and work with your insurance if needed. Getting the right help now will make sure your home stays strong and safe in the future. Take your time to choose who you trust to work on your home.
Restock Emergency Supplies
After a storm, you might notice that your emergency kit is missing items or was never fully prepared. Now is a great time to restock or build a better emergency kit. Include flashlights, batteries, first-aid items, bottled water, canned food, phone chargers, blankets, and copies of important documents. Think about your family’s needs—include pet supplies, baby items, or medication as necessary.
Keep your emergency kit in a place that’s easy to grab. You never know when the next storm might hit. Teach your family where it is and how to use the items inside. Having a kit ready brings peace of mind. You won’t have to scramble in the middle of an emergency. Being prepared can help you feel more in control if another storm heads your way.
Recovering from a storm is never easy. It brings stress, hard work, and emotional moments. But taking clear, careful steps can help you regain control and rebuild stronger than before. Focus on safety first, follow through with cleanup and repairs, and think ahead for future protection. Your home is more than just walls and windows — it’s your safe place. Keeping it strong, clean, and ready for the future helps everyone feel more secure. Take each step with patience, and remember that recovery is a process that moves forward one day at a time.