How Do You Inspect Your Home After a Tornado Passes?
Last updated October 23, 2026
The short answer
Ensure Safety Before Entering
Wait for official clearance that it is safe to return to your neighborhood. Before going inside, walk around the exterior to look for obvious hazards like fallen trees, damaged power lines, or gas odors. Do not enter if you see major structural compromise, such as a collapsed wall or roof. Your personal safety is the most important consideration after a severe storm.
If you smell natural gas, leave the area immediately and call the utility company from a safe distance. Check that the main electrical panel is not submerged in water before touching it. Be cautious of debris that could hide broken glass, nails, or other sharp objects. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and gloves during your initial inspection to protect yourself from injury.
Examine the Roof and Exterior
Inspect your roof from the ground using binoculars if possible. Look for missing shingles, torn flashing, or holes that could allow water inside. Check gutters and downspouts for damage or blockages that could cause drainage issues. Siding and windows should also be examined for cracks, breaks, or signs of being forced out of alignment.
Damage to the roof or siding often leads to hidden water intrusion. Even a small opening can let in significant rain, leading to problems in your attic and walls. In any climate, quick action is key to prevent secondary damage from future rains. Note any exterior damage for your insurance claim.
- Missing, cracked, or lifted shingles.
- Dented or detached gutters and downspouts.
- Cracked or broken windows and window frames.
- Holes or tears in siding or brickwork.
- Damage to chimneys, vents, or skylights.
- Signs of structural shifting in walls or the foundation.
Check for Interior Water Damage
Once inside, check ceilings, walls, and floors for water stains, sagging, or bubbling paint. These are clear signs that water has entered your home. Pay close attention to areas under known roof damage or around windows and doors. Feel carpets and rugs for dampness, and look for warping in hardwood or laminate flooring.
Water damage can spread quickly and lead to mold growth. Move furniture and belongings away from wet areas if it is safe to do so. Ventilate the space by opening windows if the weather permits. This initial assessment helps you understand the scope of damage before contacting your insurance company and local water damage pros for a detailed inspection.
Inspect Plumbing and Appliances
Check all visible plumbing lines for leaks, especially near water heaters, under sinks, and around toilets. A tornado's shifting forces can loosen pipes and fittings. Run water in sinks and flush toilets to ensure drains are clear and functioning. Listen for unusual sounds in the walls that might indicate a hidden leak.
Inspect appliances like your washing machine, dishwasher, and water heater for physical damage or disconnected hoses. Turn off the main water valve if you discover a significant leak. This can prevent extensive flooding while you wait for a professional plumber or water damage restoration professionals to assess and make repairs.
- Look for drips or pooling under sinks and around the toilet base.
- Check the water heater for dents, rust, or moisture on the tank.
- Inspect washing machine supply hoses for cracks or leaks.
- Ensure refrigerator water lines and ice makers are intact.
- Expose the main water shutoff valve and ensure it works.
- Check for moisture around bathtubs and shower enclosures.
Document Damage and Next Steps
Take extensive photographs and video of all damage, both inside and outside your home. Make detailed notes, including the date and a description of what you see. This documentation is crucial when you file a claim with your insurance company. Do not throw away damaged items until an insurance adjuster has seen them, as they are part of your evidence.
Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. For water damage from storm intrusion or broken pipes, local water damage pros can provide the necessary drying, cleaning, and repair services. They have the equipment to find hidden moisture and prevent mold, which is a common result of delayed action.
Talk to someone now
Call (480) 526-4676 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (480) 526-4676Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I find standing water in my home?
Avoid contact with standing water, as it may be electrically charged or contaminated. Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if you can do so safely. Contact local water damage pros who have pumps and extractors to remove the water properly and begin the drying process to save your structure and belongings.
How soon should I address water damage after a storm?
Act quickly. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. Prompt drying is essential to limit structural damage and health risks. The first step is stopping the water source, then removing water and increasing ventilation while you arrange for a professional assessment and drying services.
Does homeowners insurance cover tornado water damage?
Most standard policies cover sudden water damage from a storm, like a roof leak. Damage from flooding, such as water rising from the ground, typically requires separate flood insurance. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy details and document all damage thoroughly when you file your claim.
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