Storm Damage · What To Do Now
Storm Flooding in My Home — What Do I Do?
Floodwater from a storm is usually contaminated (Category 3) — it carries whatever it flowed over. Treat it as a health hazard, not just water.
Call (660) 216-6521 — 24/7Do This First
Work through these in order — the first few minutes decide how much damage spreads.
- 1
Stay out of floodwater near electrical outlets/panels until power is off — but never touch the panel while standing in water.
- 2
Assume the water is contaminated; keep kids and pets away.
- 3
Once safe and the water recedes, document everything before removing anything.
- 4
Get professional extraction and disinfection started quickly.
- 5
Don’t use appliances or HVAC that got wet until inspected.
Careful
What to Avoid
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Don't wade into an energized flooded area.
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Don't try to save carpet, pad, or drywall soaked by floodwater — Category 3 materials usually must go.
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Don't run fans through contaminated water before extraction and disinfection.
When to Call a Pro
Binnacle follows IICRC S500 for Category 3 water — safe extraction, removal of unsalvageable materials, antimicrobial treatment, structural drying, and documentation — so your home is dried and disinfected, not just pumped out.
Common Questions
Storm Flooding in My Home
Is storm floodwater dangerous?
Yes — it typically carries sewage, chemicals, and debris (Category 3), which is why porous materials it soaks usually must be removed and the space professionally disinfected.
Does homeowners insurance cover storm flooding?
External flooding usually requires separate flood insurance; a wind-created opening that lets rain in may fall under homeowners. Coverage varies — we document it either way.
More Storm Damage Guides
Don't wait it out — water and damage spread.
Talk to a real person now. We're here 24/7 and document everything for your claim.
Call (660) 216-6521