A storm put water inside my home. What should I do first?
Wait until the storm has passed and it is safe. Then move belongings out of the water, take photos of every affected room before you clean, and call (000) 000-0000 to describe what you are seeing. If water is still entering through the roof, say so on the call.
Who fixes the roof?
A roofer repairs the roof itself and any covering work. The restoration provider handles the water that got inside: extraction, drying, cleaning and repair of wet rooms. Roof damage and water damage are two scopes — many homeowners need both after a big storm.
Does insurance cover storm water damage?
Rain coming through a storm-damaged opening is commonly covered as storm damage; water rising from the ground outside is usually flood, which needs a separate flood policy. Report the loss early, take photos and keep receipts. Your adjuster decides your case.
Should I clean up before my insurer sees the damage?
Take photos and video first — that record matters more than leaving the mess in place. Reasonable steps to limit further damage, like drying and removing soaked material, are usually expected, not penalized. Keep invoices for anything you pay for during the first days.
How long does storm cleanup take?
Extraction and drying usually run several days, like other water work. Repairs depend on what the storm damaged — roofing, ceilings, floors. After a widespread storm, all trades are busy at once, so timelines stretch; that is normal, and it is another reason to call early.
Can I stay in the home after storm damage?
Often yes, if the damage is limited and the home is safe. A damaged roof, no power, or water across many rooms can make a short stay elsewhere sensible. Ask the provider about your situation on the first call.
Local facts
- DFW Airport recorded 9.19 inches of rain in 24 hours in August 2022 — heavy-rain intrusion is a real local pattern.
- Southlake sits in the North Texas hail corridor — hail damage is the usual doorway for roof-leak water entry.
- After a wide storm, every trade is busy at once — calling early is a practical advantage, not a sales line.
This website connects callers with independent local water damage providers. It is a referral service and does not perform the work itself.