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What Are the Steps to Assess Damage After a Hurricane?

Last updated October 23, 2026

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The short answer

Prioritize Safety First

Before you assess any damage, your personal safety is the most important concern. Wait for local authorities to declare it safe to return. Look for obvious structural dangers like unstable walls, cracked foundations, or a damaged roof from the outside. Be extremely cautious of downed power lines, standing water that could be electrified, and the potential smell of natural gas.

If you suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately and call the utility company from a safe distance. Do not turn on lights or use any electrical switches if there is standing water inside. Wear protective clothing, including sturdy boots, gloves, and a mask, when you do enter, as debris can be sharp and floodwater is often contaminated.

Conduct an Initial Exterior Walkthrough

Start your assessment by walking the perimeter of your property. Look for damage to the roof, siding, windows, and doors. Check for fallen trees, broken branches, or debris that has impacted the structure. Note any signs of foundation movement, such as new cracks or sections that appear to have shifted.

Pay close attention to your home's drainage systems. Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear and still attached, as blockages can lead to future water problems. Inspect any external utilities, like your electrical meter or HVAC units, for visible damage. Document every issue you see with clear photographs or a video as you walk around.

Systematically Inspect the Interior

Enter carefully and proceed room by room. Look for signs of water intrusion, which may include wet drywall, sagging ceilings, soaked carpets, or standing water. Check for mold growth, which can start within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. Use a flashlight to inspect dark areas like closets, crawl spaces, and behind appliances.

Test electrical outlets and switches cautiously with a plug-in circuit tester if the power is confirmed to be off at the main panel. Check plumbing fixtures for leaks. Open cabinets and feel along baseboards for moisture. Make a written list of damaged items and structural issues as you go, supplementing your photographic evidence.

  • Check ceilings and walls for stains, bulges, or soft spots.
  • Feel carpets and flooring for dampness or buckling.
  • Inspect furniture, especially upholstered items, for water absorption.
  • Look under sinks and around toilets for plumbing leaks.
  • Examine personal belongings in basements or storage areas.
  • Note any unusual odors, which can indicate hidden mold or sewage.

Document Everything for Insurance

Thorough documentation is essential for your insurance claim. Take wide shots of entire rooms and close-ups of specific damages. Capture serial numbers on major appliances and electronics if possible. Keep all receipts for any temporary repairs you make, such as buying tarps or plywood. Your notes should include the date and time of your inspection.

Contact your insurance company to start the claims process as soon as you have your initial documentation. They will guide you on their specific requirements. Remember, policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Do not dispose of damaged items until an insurance adjuster has seen them, unless they pose a health hazard.

When to Call Water Damage Professionals

If you discover significant water intrusion, lingering moisture, or suspect hidden damage behind walls, it's time to call the pros. They have the tools, like moisture meters and infrared cameras, to find water you cannot see. They can assess the full scope and develop a drying plan to prevent secondary damage like mold.

Acting quickly is important. Mold can begin growing rapidly in damp materials. These professionals can also help with content restoration and structural drying. For commercial properties like a hotel or a store, this rapid assessment is crucial to resume operations safely.

Water damage does not wait

Call (503) 224-3149 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

What if I find mold during my inspection?

If you see or smell mold, limit exposure. Do not attempt to clean large areas yourself, as disturbing it can spread spores. Contact a qualified mold assessment professional to test and recommend a remediation plan. People with respiratory issues should avoid the area entirely.

How do I handle a flooded basement?

Do not enter a flooded basement until electricity is confirmed off. Assume the water is contaminated. Pumping it out too quickly can cause structural damage if the groundwater outside is still high. The pros have pumps and can safely extract the water while stabilizing the environment.

Can I stay in my home if there's damage?

It depends on the extent of the damage. If there is significant structural compromise, a gas leak, no safe water supply, or widespread mold, you should find alternative lodging. Your safety and health are the priority. An electrician or building inspector can help determine if the structure is sound.

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