Hurricane Recovery
Safe first, documented second, dried third.
A calm order of operations after a storm: safety checks, documentation for your claim, moisture control, and honest decisions about what can be saved.
Why this matters: The first 72 hours determine both what can be saved and how smoothly the claim goes.
6 steps · The first several days
- Step 1
Check safety before anything else
Power, gas, structural damage, and standing water.
Do this: Do a careful exterior-then-interior safety walkthrough.
Nothing else matters until the home is safe to be in.
- Step 2
Document everything before moving it
Photos and video of every damaged room and item.
Do this: Photograph rooms and items, then update My Home.
Claims are decided on evidence captured before cleanup started.
- Step 3
Control moisture fast
Airflow, dehumidification, and removing saturated materials.
Do this: Start drying and monitor indoor humidity.
Mold begins within 24–48 hours in Florida humidity.
- Step 4
Triage furniture honestly
What can be cleaned, what can be restored, what is unsafe to keep.
Do this: Assess piece by piece.
Some water-damaged pieces — especially mattresses and upholstery — should not be saved.
- Step 5
Bring in the right professionals
Remediation, electrical, roofing, and restoration.
Do this: Request introductions to trusted professionals.
Hidden moisture and wiring damage are not DIY assessments.
- Step 6Optional
Replace thoughtfully, not urgently
Measure, plan, and choose materials that handle humidity better.
Do this: Start the buying furniture journey when you're ready.
Rushed replacement is how the same loss repeats next season.
Maria's tips
- Keep every receipt from the recovery — many are reimbursable.
- Photograph serial numbers and labels on damaged appliances before disposal.
Common mistakes
- Cleaning up before documenting.
- Drying a soaked mattress or upholstered piece and continuing to use it.