What Should I Do After a Tornado Hits My Home?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Secure Your Safety First
After a tornado, do not enter your home until authorities say it is safe. A structure can look intact but have hidden damage that makes floors or ceilings unstable. Listen for any announcements regarding gas leaks or downed power lines in your neighborhood. Keep a safe distance from damaged areas and avoid any standing water that could be electrically charged.
If you must go inside for an essential item, wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and gloves to protect against debris. Bring a flashlight, not a candle, to avoid igniting any gas. Check on your neighbors if it is safe to do so, especially the elderly or those with mobility issues. Your personal safety is more important than saving possessions at this moment.
Protect Your Home from Further Damage
Once safe to do so, take steps to prevent additional damage. This is often a requirement in your insurance policy. Cover broken windows, holes in walls, or sections of a damaged roof with heavy-duty tarps or plywood. This stops rain and wind from causing more water damage inside your home, which can quickly lead to mold.
Shut off your home's main water valve if you suspect broken pipes. Also, turn off electricity at the main breaker if there is any standing water or if wiring is exposed and damaged. If you live in Federal Way, keep your shutoff valve location written down.
- Cover broken windows and doors with plywood or plastic sheeting.
- Tarp over holes in the roof to keep out rain.
- Move undamaged furniture and belongings to a dry area.
- Remove soaked carpets or rugs to prevent floor damage.
- Place buckets under active leaks if safe to access.
- Document these protective steps with photos for your insurer.
Document All Damage Thoroughly
Create a detailed record for your insurance claim by taking extensive photos and video. Walk through your property and capture images of all damaged areas, both inside and out. Get wide shots to show context and close-ups to show specific destruction. Include damaged personal belongings, appliances, and structural elements in your documentation.
Make a written list of all damaged or lost items, including descriptions, brands, and approximate ages. Keep receipts for any materials you buy for temporary repairs, like tarps or plywood. Do not dispose of damaged items until your insurance adjuster has seen them, unless they pose a health hazard.
Address Water Damage Quickly
Water intrusion is a common issue after a tornado due to roof damage or broken pipes. Standing water can warp floors, ruin drywall, and create ideal conditions for mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. If you have significant water inside, local water damage pros can help with extraction and drying to save your home's structure.
They use specialized equipment like industrial dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out walls, floors, and subfloors. This process, called structural drying, is critical to prevent secondary damage. Mold can start growing on wet materials very quickly, so a swift, professional response is key to a full recovery.
Talk to someone now
Call (253) 785-9361 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (253) 785-9361Frequently asked questions
What if I smell gas after a tornado?
Leave the area immediately and call your gas company or 911 from a safe distance. Do not turn lights on or off, and do not use anything that could create a spark. Let professionals check for leaks before you return.
Will insurance cover tornado damage?
Most standard homeowners policies cover wind and tornado damage to the structure and personal property. However, policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Flood damage typically requires separate flood insurance. Review your policy details carefully.
How long does water damage restoration take?
The timeline depends on the extent of the damage. Simple drying may take a few days, while repairs for severe structural damage can take weeks or months. The drying process itself must be complete before any rebuilding can start to prevent mold.
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