The short answer
Secure Your Yard and Exterior
Walk around your home and look for anything that could become a projectile in high winds. Bring in patio furniture, grills, potted plants, and children's toys. Tie down larger items like sheds or trampolines if you cannot move them inside. These simple steps reduce the chance of broken windows and siding damage.
Trim tree branches that hang over your roof or near power lines. A storm can snap weak limbs and send them through your home. Check gutters and downspouts for leaves and debris so rainwater flows away from your foundation. Keep a written note of your water shutoff valve location in case you need to stop water quickly.
- Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture and decor
- Trim dead or overhanging branches
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Inspect roof and window seals for damage
- Move vehicles into a garage or away from trees
- Store important documents in a waterproof container
Create an Inside Plan
Decide ahead of time which room you will use as a safe spot during severe weather. Choose an interior room on the lowest level, away from windows. Move electronics, documents, and sentimental items to higher shelves or upstairs if you have them. This keeps them dry if water seeps in.
Keep a supply of flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit in that room. Have a battery-powered radio for weather updates. Also, know where your main water valve and electrical breaker are located. Turning these off quickly can reduce water damage and electrical hazards.
- Choose a safe room and keep it stocked
- Locate your water shutoff valve and breaker panel
- Check your floor drain and clean the pit if you have one
- Move valuables to higher ground or upper floors
- Have a plan for pets and family members with mobility needs
Protect Your Home's Interior
If you know a storm is coming, move furniture away from windows and exterior walls. Use plastic sheeting or tarps to cover electronics and upholstered furniture if you expect flooding. Place important documents in waterproof bags or a safe that can withstand water.
Consider installing a backflow valve on your sewer line to prevent sewage from backing up during heavy rain. This is a job for a plumber. Also, seal any cracks in your foundation or crawl space walls with hydraulic cement or a masonry sealant. This helps keep groundwater out.
- Move furniture away from windows and doors
- Use plastic sheeting to cover electronics
- Store documents in waterproof containers
- Seal foundation cracks
- Install a backflow valve with a plumber's help
- Keep a wet/dry vacuum ready for minor leaks
Know What to Do After a Storm
After the storm passes, check your home for water entry points. Look for wet spots on ceilings, walls, and floors. Take photos of any damage for your insurance records. If you see standing water, do not walk into it if you suspect electrical wires are down. Turn off the electricity at the breaker if it is safe to do so.
Dry wet areas quickly to prevent mold growth. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows if the weather allows. Remove soaked carpets and padding, as they can harbor mold. If water damage is extensive, the pros can help with water extraction and structural drying. A thorough inspection can identify hidden moisture.
- Document damage with photos and notes
- Turn off electricity and water if safe
- Remove standing water with a pump or wet/dry vacuum
- Begin drying within 24 to 48 hours
- Call the pros for extensive water extraction and drying
Plan for Insurance and Costs
Review your homeowners insurance policy before storm season to understand what is covered for wind, hail, and flooding. Standard policies often exclude flood damage, so you may need separate flood insurance. Contact your insurance company to clarify your coverage and any deductibles.
If you file a claim, document all damage with photos and keep receipts for any emergency repairs you make. The cost of cleanup and restoration depends on the extent of the damage, the materials affected, and the drying time needed. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Review your policy for wind and flood coverage
- Take photos of damage before cleanup
- Keep receipts for emergency supplies and repairs
- Contact your insurance company promptly
- Ask about deductibles and claim limits
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Euless and nearby communities.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
What should I do right before a storm hits?
Bring in outdoor items, secure windows and doors, and move valuables to higher ground. Have your emergency kit ready and know where your shutoff valves are. If you have time, place sandbags or towels at door thresholds to block water. Stay tuned to weather alerts.
How can I prevent mold after a storm?
Act quickly to dry wet areas. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows if safe. Remove soaked carpets, drywall, and insulation. If mold appears, a mold professional can help. Drying within 48 hours reduces mold growth.
Is flood damage covered by homeowners insurance?
Standard homeowners policies usually exclude flood damage. You may need separate flood insurance. Check your policy and talk to your insurance company. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Document all damage and file a claim promptly.