Phone answered 24/7 · Bonita Springs, FL and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (239) 441-2877
Imperial River Water Damage HelpBonita Springs, FL · Answered 24/7

Storm Damage Emergency: Who to Call and in What Order

Last updated October 25, 2026

Call Now (239) 441-2877

The short answer

First Call for Safety

If the storm has caused injuries, downed power lines, or a gas leak, call 911 before anything else. Your safety and the safety of your household come first. Do not enter a room with standing water if the power is on, and avoid touching wet electrical panels.

Once the immediate danger is over, shut off your main water valve if pipes have burst and you see active leaking. If you smell gas, leave the building and call the gas company from outside. Check for structural damage like sagging ceilings or cracks before you go back inside.

  • Call 911 for injuries, fire, or gas leaks
  • Shut off water main if pipes burst
  • Turn off electricity at the breaker if safe
  • Avoid flooded rooms with electronics
  • Leave the building if you smell gas

Contact Your Insurance Company

After you are safe, call your insurance company to report the storm damage. Have your policy number and a list of damaged items ready. Take photos of the damage before any cleanup begins, as this helps with your claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Ask your insurance company what steps they need from you, such as keeping receipts for temporary repairs. Document everything, including the date and time of the storm and any conversations you have. This record will be useful if you have questions later.

Call the Pros for Emergency Tarping

If your roof is damaged or a window is broken, get emergency tarping to keep water out. Local water damage pros can cover the opening quickly to prevent further water from entering your home. This is a temporary fix until permanent repairs are made.

Emergency tarping is a common first step after a storm, especially if rain is forecast. The pros will secure the tarp over the damaged area and check for other entry points. Acting fast can reduce the amount of water that soaks into your walls and floors.

  • Tarp covers roof holes and broken windows
  • Prevents rain from entering your home
  • Helps reduce water damage inside
  • Held down with straps and nails
  • Temporary until roof repair is done

Emergency Cleanup and Drying

Once the area is tarped, the next step is water removal and drying. The pros use pumps, wet vacuums, and dehumidifiers to extract water and lower humidity. This helps prevent mold growth and further structural damage.

The longer water sits, the more damage it causes. Wood floors can warp, drywall can crumble, and insulation loses its effectiveness. Starting the drying process within the first day makes a big difference, so do not wait to make these calls.

Call Trades for Specific Repairs

After the initial emergency is handled, you may need a plumber to fix burst pipes, an electrician to check wiring, or a roofer to repair the roof. These trades handle the permanent fixes that restore your home to normal. You can arrange these after the immediate water threat is controlled.

Keep a list of emergency numbers in a waterproof container. If you live in Bonita Springs, keep your shutoff valve location written down. A clear plan helps you act fast during a stressful storm event. The pros can also perform a water damage inspection to assess hidden damage.

Water damage does not wait

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

Call Now (239) 441-2877

Frequently asked questions

Should I call my insurance company before or after the pros?

Call your insurance company first to report the damage and get guidance. They may ask for photos and a list of damaged items. Then you can call the pros for emergency tarping and cleanup. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

What if I cannot see any damage from the outside?

Hidden damage, like water in walls or under floors, is possible. After the storm, schedule a water damage inspection to check for moisture and mold. The pros use moisture meters and thermal cameras to find problems you cannot see.

Can I do the cleanup myself?

You can remove small amounts of water with towels and a bucket, but large flooding or contaminated water is dangerous. The pros have pumps and protective gear to handle sewage or floodwater. For safety, call for help if the water is deep or has been sitting for more than a day.

Call Now (239) 441-2877