The short answer
First Steps After the Storm
Your safety comes before checking on your belongings. Tornadoes can snap gas lines, topple chimneys, and weaken floors without any visible signs from outside. Local officials need time to clear roads and shut off utilities. Listen to a battery-powered radio or your phone for official guidance on when it is safe to return.
Even after the all-clear, walk carefully. Watch for nails, splintered wood, and shattered glass. Look up for dangling wires or sagging ceilings. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave immediately and report it to the utility company. Do not light matches or turn on lights until you are sure there is no leak.
- Wear heavy boots and gloves
- Carry a flashlight, not candles
- Take photos of damage for your records
- Avoid touching downed power lines
- Stay away from weakened porches and overhangs
When to Call in the Pros
After a tornado, many homeowners face a mix of water damage, structural issues, and debris removal. You can handle small cleanup like sweeping up broken glass, but bigger problems need professional help. A structural engineer or a local building inspector can assess whether your home is safe to occupy. For water damage, local water damage pros can help with extraction and drying.
For example, if you have soaked carpets, wet drywall, or standing water in the basement, a water damage inspection can identify hidden moisture. If you live in Redmond, keep your shutoff valve location written down, and know where your electrical panel is. That way, you can act quickly after any disaster.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Gas leak smell or hissing
- Visible sag in roof or ceiling
- Cracks in walls or foundation
- Water stains spreading on drywall
- Doors that stick or won't close
Cleaning Up Safely
Once you get the green light, start with the basics. Remove debris from walkways and entry points. Wear a dust mask to avoid breathing in mold spores or dust from insulation. Use a wet-dry vacuum for standing water, but never use it if you suspect live electricity. Turn off the main power at the breaker if you can do so without touching water.
Dry out the home as much as possible. Open windows, run dehumidifiers, and remove soaked rugs and furniture. If the water came from a storm, treat everything as contaminated and discard porous items like mattresses or pillows. For non-porous surfaces, clean with soap and water, then disinfect.
Long-Term Repairs and Health
Tornado damage can leave behind more than mess. Hidden water in walls can lead to mold growth, which may cause breathing problems. If you or anyone in your home feels unwell after returning, see a doctor. For mold issues, a mold professional can test and recommend safe removal methods.
For structural repairs, you may need a contractor to rebuild walls or replace a roof. Water-damaged drywall often needs to be cut out and replaced. If your flooring is warped or buckled, removal may be necessary. These are jobs for the pros, as they have the right tools and training to handle them safely.
Need help right now?
Call (425) 407-5186 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
How soon can I go back inside?
Wait for local officials to declare the area safe. That could be hours or days. Never rush in, as hidden dangers like gas leaks or unstable structures can be deadly. Your safety matters more than any possession.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Leave the house immediately and go far away. Do not flip any switches or light matches. Call the gas company from a neighbor's phone or your cell phone once you are outside. Do not re-enter until they say it is safe.
Can I clean up water damage myself?
Small spills you can handle, but after a tornado, water may be contaminated or mixed with debris. For large areas, it is safer to call local water damage pros. They have pumps, dryers, and moisture meters to do the job right.