When the wind dies down and the rain stops, the instinct for many property owners is to rush outside and begin the cleanup. However, the period immediately following a major weather event is often more hazardous than the storm itself. This is no time for second best. Assessing your home or business requires a calm, methodical approach to ensure your safety and the integrity of your property.

At Paul Davis, we specialize in the aftermath. Before you pick up a shovel or climb a ladder, follow these essential steps to safely evaluate your situation.

Prioritize Personal Safety

Before inspecting the building, look up and look down. Your primary goal is to identify immediate hazards that could lead to injury.

Immediate Safety Action: Check for downed power lines or leaning trees. If you smell gas or hear a "hissing" sound, evacuate the premises immediately and contact your utility provider. Never enter a flooded basement if the power is still on, as standing water can be energized.

Conduct a Perimeter Walk

Once you are certain the area is stable, perform a visual inspection from the ground. Avoid climbing onto the roof, as storm damage can weaken structures in ways that aren't visible from the surface.

Proactive Documentation: Walk the perimeter and look for missing shingles, damaged siding, or broken windows. Take detailed photos and videos of everything you see—this documentation is vital for your insurance claim. Note any granules in your gutters or "bruising" on shingles, which are signs of significant hail impact.

Identify Interior Warning Signs

Storm damage isn't always external. Water can find its way into your attic or behind walls long before a drip appears on the ceiling.

Hidden Damage Check: Look in your attic for damp insulation or daylight peeking through the roof deck. Check for "yellowing" spots on ceilings, bubbling paint, or a sudden musty odour. These are clear indicators that your building's envelope has been compromised and moisture is beginning to settle.

Professional Intervention

Minor debris cleanup can often be handled by a homeowner, but structural or water-related issues require a professional touch to prevent long-term mould growth or rot.

The Paul Davis Standard: If you discover structural shifting, large fallen trees on the building, or any significant water intrusion, it is time to bring in the experts. Paul Davis professionals use specialized thermal imaging and moisture meters to find hidden damage that the naked eye simply misses.

When the storm clears, the road to recovery starts with a single, safe step. If you are unsure of the extent of the damage, we are ready to provide the professional assessment and empathy you need to move forward.

You can Call Paul Davis for 24/7 emergency service or find your local restoration experts to begin your property’s recovery today.