How Do You Assess Tornado Damage After the Storm Passes?

Do not go outside until emergency officials say the tornado threat has passed. Be extremely careful when you first return, watching for downed power lines, broken glass, and unstable debris. Avoid standing near damaged walls or ceilings that could collapse. Your personal safety is the most important step. Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and long pants to protect yourself.

A common result of tornado damage is a breach in your home's envelope, allowing water inside. Check ceilings, walls, and floors for wet spots, stains, or sagging. Pay close attention to areas under damaged roofs or around broken windows. If you find water, it is crucial to address it quickly to prevent mold growth and structural rot. Moisture can seep into building materials fast, so rapid action is important.

• Standing water in any room.
• Wet or discolored drywall or plaster.
• Warped or buckling wood floors.
• Damp insulation in attics or crawlspaces.
• A musty odor, signaling hidden moisture.
• Damaged pipes from shifted foundations.

If you have any structural concerns, electrical issues, or significant water intrusion, you need experts. A roofer can address major roof damage, and an electrician can handle downed wires. For water inside your home, contact the pros. They have the equipment to dry your property properly and can help with the next steps for repair. The cost for their services often depends on the extent of damage and the size of the affected area. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

• The roof has a large hole or is sagging.
• You smell gas or see sparks from wiring.
• Several inches of water cover floors.
• Walls are bowing or ceilings are cracking.
• Sewage lines appear to be damaged.
• You are unsure about the stability of any structure.