How Do You Safely Re-Enter a Home After Hurricane Damage?

Do not rush back after the storm passes. Floodwater can hide dangers, and roads may be blocked or washed out. Listen to local emergency broadcasts and follow evacuation orders. Only return when authorities say it is safe to enter your area.

Even then, approach your home with caution. Look for sagging roofs, cracked walls, or doors that stick. If you see downed power lines, stay at least 30 feet away and call the utility company. If you smell gas, leave immediately and contact the gas provider from outside.

Before you walk through the door, inspect the outside. Look for cracks in the foundation, leaning walls, or a shifted roofline. If the porch or stairs feel unstable, do not use them. Enter through the safest route, even if it means a window.

Inside, move slowly and test each step. Look for ceiling tiles that are wet or bulging, and avoid rooms where the floor feels spongy. If you hear creaking or see visible sagging, back out and call a structural professional. Do not try to move heavy debris alone.

Once you are safely inside, take photos and videos of every damaged area, including walls, floors, ceilings, and personal belongings. Capture the extent of water lines and any visible mold. This documentation helps with your insurance claim, though policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Do not throw away damaged items until you have recorded them. Keep a list of what is ruined and what might be salvageable. If you need help assessing the full scope, local water damage pros can inspect the property and guide you on next steps. Their work usually involves a thorough evaluation and cleanup plan.