SAFETY FIRST AFTER A STORM
Before thinking about cleanup, make sure everyone is safe. Storm damage can leave hazards that are not always obvious, and rushing back into a damaged property can put people at risk.
Wait until conditions outside are safe, and follow the guidance of local officials. If you smell gas, see sparking or exposed wiring, or notice signs of structural damage, keep away and contact the appropriate emergency services or utility provider. Downed power lines should always be treated as dangerous.
Standing water can also hide hazards. It may be contaminated, and it can conceal debris or come into contact with electrical equipment. Avoid walking through it unnecessarily.
Before entering a storm-damaged property, consider:
- Downed power lines
- Gas odours
- Exposed wiring
- Structural damage
- Standing water
- Broken glass
- Unstable trees
- Loose debris
If a building looks unsafe, it is better to wait for a professional assessment than to enter. Belongings can usually be dealt with later, but personal safety cannot.
ASSESSING AND DOCUMENTING THE DAMAGE
Once it is safe to do so, walk the property and note what has been affected. Storm damage is not always limited to what is visible from the ground, so it helps to look carefully at the roof, siding, windows, eaves, fences, and surrounding areas from a safe position.
Wind damage restoration often involves shingles, siding, fences, and areas where debris has struck the building. Hail can dent or crack roofing, siding, and windows, and the effects are not always obvious at first glance. Rain that enters through damaged areas can soak insulation, ceilings, and walls, sometimes without leaving immediate signs.
Take photographs or videos of damage before moving or cleaning anything, and keep a list of affected belongings. This record can be useful when communicating with an insurance provider.
Areas worth checking include:
- Roof
- Siding
- Windows
- Ceilings
- Attic
- Basement
- Fences and decks
- Trees and debris
Moisture can remain in hidden places long after the storm has passed. Damp insulation, wet drywall, and water trapped beneath flooring may not be noticed until odours, staining, or mould appear, which is why a thorough moisture check is often part of professional assessment.
CLEANUP AND RESTORATION STEPS
After the property has been assessed, the priority is to prevent additional damage. Temporary measures such as covering openings or protecting exposed areas can help limit further water entry while permanent repairs are arranged.
From there, storm damage cleanup usually moves through removing debris, extracting water, drying affected areas, and repairing or replacing damaged materials. Porous materials that have absorbed water may not be salvageable, while others may dry successfully when they are treated promptly.
Professional storm cleanup may include:
- Damage assessment
- Emergency board-up
- Temporary covering
- Debris removal
- Water extraction
- Structural drying
- Moisture testing
- Repairs and rebuilding
Property owners can take a few simple steps in the meantime. Move undamaged belongings away from wet areas if it is safe, keep records of any temporary repairs and their costs, and avoid discarding damaged items until they have been documented.
Acting promptly matters because water and moisture can continue to affect a property over time. For emergency storm cleanup or hail damage cleanup in Calgary, contact 24/7 Restoration for professional storm restoration. A careful assessment can help determine what needs attention first and how to restore your property safely and thoroughly.
FAQs
Q: WHAT SHOULD I DO FIRST AFTER A STORM DAMAGES MY PROPERTY?
A: Make sure everyone is safe, avoid hazards such as downed power lines and standing water, and document the damage once it is safe. Then contact a restoration company to help limit further damage.
Q: CAN HAIL AND WIND DAMAGE BE HIDDEN?
A: Yes. Hail and wind can damage roofing, siding, and windows in ways that are not immediately obvious, and water can enter unnoticed. A professional assessment can help identify hidden damage and moisture.
Q: SHOULD I WAIT FOR MY INSURANCE PROVIDER BEFORE STARTING CLEANUP?
A: Contact your insurance provider early and document the damage first. Reasonable steps to prevent further damage are often appropriate, and a restoration company can help with storm restoration and records.
