The short answer
Initial Safety Steps
Before you start, make sure the power is off in any areas with standing water. Wear rubber boots and gloves to protect yourself from contaminated water. If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave the property and call the gas company from a safe distance. Do not enter a flooded crawlspace until the water has been drained and the structure is deemed safe.
Take photos of the damage for your insurance records before moving anything. Open windows and doors to start airing out the space, but be aware that floodwater can carry bacteria. If you feel unwell or have any open wounds, avoid contact with the water. See a doctor if you develop any symptoms after exposure. Avoid entering any flooded area until the water has receded and you have confirmed the structure is safe.
Removing Water and Drying
Standing water needs to be pumped out and the space dried thoroughly. Use a submersible pump for deep water and a wet-dry vacuum for shallow areas. After the bulk water is gone, run dehumidifiers and fans to pull moisture from walls and floors. Drying can take days or weeks, depending on the extent of the flooding and the materials involved.
The longer materials stay wet, the higher the risk of mold growth. Remove soaked carpet, padding, and upholstered furniture that cannot be cleaned. Drywall and insulation that have been saturated should be cut out and discarded. Keep the indoor humidity low and continue drying until the structure is fully dry.
- Use a submersible pump for deep water
- Run dehumidifiers and fans continuously
- Remove soaked carpet and padding
- Cut out saturated drywall and insulation
- Discard items that cannot be cleaned
Cleaning and Sanitizing
After drying, clean all surfaces that came into contact with floodwater. Use a solution of bleach and water or a commercial disinfectant to kill bacteria and prevent mold. Scrub walls, floors, and hard surfaces thoroughly. Pay attention to cracks and crevices where contaminants can hide.
Wash all clothing and linens that were exposed, and discard any food that came into contact with floodwater. For items you want to keep, consider professional cleaning for electronics and delicate fabrics. If mold has already started to grow, you may need to consult a mold professional to assess the extent and recommend safe removal methods.
Repairing and Rebuilding
Once the space is dry and clean, you can begin repairs. This may involve replacing drywall, insulation, flooring, and electrical systems that were damaged. Work with a qualified electrician to inspect and repair wiring before you turn the power back on. A plumber can check your water lines and sewer connections for damage.
Structural elements like wooden beams and supports may need to be inspected for rot or warping. Local building codes and permits may be required for major repairs, so check with your local building department. If the damage is extensive, consider hiring water damage pros to handle the restoration work. They have the equipment and experience to dry, clean, and rebuild safely.
Working with Pros
Hurricane cleanup is often too big for one person to handle alone. Water damage pros can handle the heavy work of water extraction, drying, and debris removal. They also have industrial-grade equipment and knowledge of how to prevent secondary damage like mold. If you choose to hire them, ask about their process and what they will do first.
Before hiring, get a clear written description of the work they will do and the cost. Prices typically depend on the size of the affected area, the amount of water, and the level of contamination. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what your insurance covers and for how long.
- Ask about their drying and sanitizing process
- Get a written description of the work
- Confirm the cost before work begins
- Check your insurance policy for coverage details
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
How long does hurricane cleanup take?
The timeline varies widely. Drying a flooded home can take several days to weeks, and repairs can take months. The extent of the water damage and the materials involved are key factors. Acting quickly to remove water and start drying can shorten the overall process.
Can I clean up flood damage myself?
You can handle small, minor flooding with basic cleaning supplies. But hurricane floodwater often carries contaminants, and the drying and sanitizing require special equipment. For large areas or if mold develops, it is safer and more effective to hire the pros.
What should I throw away after a hurricane?
Discard anything that absorbed water and cannot be cleaned, such as drywall, insulation, carpet, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. Also throw away all food that came into contact with floodwater. Hard surfaces like metal and plastic can be cleaned and kept, but check for damage.