{"id":5311,"date":"2025-09-23T18:09:49","date_gmt":"2025-09-23T18:09:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/unitedwaterorlando.hqdmagencystaging.com\/?p=5311"},"modified":"2025-12-11T22:15:39","modified_gmt":"2025-12-11T22:15:39","slug":"post-storm-home-checklist-what-to-do-and-what-not-to-do-after-heavy-rainfall-in-orlando","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/unitedwaterrestoration.hqdmagencystaging.com\/us\/florida\/orlando\/post-storm-home-checklist-what-to-do-and-what-not-to-do-after-heavy-rainfall-in-orlando\/","title":{"rendered":"Post-Storm Home Checklist: What to Do (and What Not to Do) After Heavy Rainfall in Orlando"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Do you ever ask yourself what you should do immediately after heavy rain to protect your home and avoid causing permanent damage?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many Orlando homeowners are left to deal with the aftermath of severe thunderstorms, flooding, and roof leaks or other resulting structural damage that the storm may have caused. When you are not familiar with the proper way to handle these issues, you are putting your health, the well-being of your family, and the integrity of your property at risk. Many people make common mistakes after a storm, which can make matters worse. This is why a checklist of what to do after a storm can be so important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This blog will provide you with some of the necessary steps to take after a storm, the common mistakes people often make, and the reasons why you might need a local <\/a><\/mark>storm damage restoration company in Orlando<\/mark><\/strong><\/a> <\/mark>to return your property to a safe and habitable state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The First Thing I Should Do After a Storm<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your first objective after a storm is protection and safety. Heavy rainstorms have likely created unsafe hazards, and you might not be able to see them instantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Take a Look Around You<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check for downed power lines, fallen trees, and unstable structures around your property. Make sure your family and pets are only in a safe area, and if there is a risk, stay away from the property altogether.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Do Not Enter Flooding or Water Areas<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even shallow water can hide electrical hazards, debris, or contaminated water. Do not walk or drive through flooded areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Mold and Mildew<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check for any signs of mold or mildew, as this growth can increase rapidly inside closed walls if moisture is present. Mold may be brown, green, or black and may produce an unpleasant smell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Any Damaged Items<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beginning in one room and working your way around the house, take stock of any personal items that were damaged and\/or need to be thrown away. Also, take note of any furniture that may be damaged or need disposal. If the water came from a flood, you may want to allow the professional service teams to do this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Cleaning<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you assess the damage, it makes sense to begin addressing the wet and water damage while you wait for professional services to clean and ensure the safety of the home. This may take several days to schedule, but the shorter the amount of time contents and your home are exposed to water infiltration, the more you can limit additional damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Electrical System<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carefully look for any water damage in outlets and circuit breakers. If you think there is a chance water has infiltrated the electrical system, immediately have a professional come inspect to avoid a risk of electrocution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Flooring and Carpet<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visually check hardwood, tile, or carpeted areas for any standing water. Even if there is no standing water, moisture can be trapped underneath these living surfaces, risking damage by warping the flooring, creating mold, and damaging structural materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Basements and Crawl Space<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

These types of areas are especially susceptible to flooding. Be sure to remove standing water as soon as possible. However, please also be sure to avoid contact with contaminated floodwaters. A professional Storm Damage Restoration Company in Orlando<\/mark><\/strong><\/a> <\/mark>can safely remove the water and dry out the areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Not To Do After a Storm<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After a storm, you may feel the urge to begin repairs; however, some things can cause more harm than good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Don’t Enter Flooded Areas<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooms with standing water should not be entered until a professional is able to tell you it is safe. There may be live electrical wires in the water or weakened walls and ceilings that can result in serious injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Don’t Use Damaged Appliances<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Electric appliances that were exposed to floodwaters, whether briefly or immersed in the water, can be dangerous or not function properly. It is best to only use appliances that have been inspected by an expert to ensure safety for you and others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Don’t Delay Calling for Professional Help<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Residential property owners are likely to take the approach of trying to repair the damage themselves. This can lead to inadequate repair, mold, and\/or a code violation. Once the damages have been confirmed, it is best to contact a Storm Damage Orlando<\/strong> professional to assist in the repair, in addition to documenting the repairs for your insurance claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Don’t Ignore Mold<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mold will begin to develop within 24\u201348 hours based on heat and humidity. Do not think that since you have not seen signs, it is safe to say it is not growing. Not addressing the repairs will lead to future health issues and more costly remediation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Prioritizing Repairs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once the inspection has concluded, and you have taken immediate actions to minimize hazards, you can begin to prioritize the repairs in terms of urgency and impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Roof and Structural Repairs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Repair leaks or structural damage as soon as possible for immediate water intrusion. If you lose shingles or there are loose or weakened areas, your ability to remain safe during the next storm may be compromised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Water Extraction and Drying<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use pumps, wet vacs, and dehumidifiers to dry out the area after your repairs. Professionals know how to use specialized equipment designed to perform deep extraction to avoid potential hidden moisture issues and mold growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Window and Door Sealing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You need to repair or replace any damaged or inoperative windows and doors to help seal off insulation and prevent water entry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Electrical and HVAC System<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

HVAC systems are compromised due to water exposure, and any electrical devices or systems plugged into HVAC or appliance outlets may also need certified inspection or repair to operate safely and effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Using Storm Damage Repair Orlando<\/mark><\/strong><\/a> <\/mark>assures that these essential repairs are performed safely and properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Insurance and Documentation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It is important to document everything related to the storm to ensure you can file a claim with your insurance company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n