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Water Damage Restoration: The Complete GuideTopic 23 of 23 · Bigger and unusual losses

Disaster Response and Coordination

Evacuations, returning home, working with adjusters and FEMA, and getting a crew when everyone needs one. How to get through the first weeks after a disaster.

Green Planet Restoration teamReviewed by our water damage crew Updated October 1, 202615 articles in this topic
Disaster Response and Coordination

In this topic

  • Document before you clean, even in a disaster.
  • Keep receipts for everything you spend.
  • A written plan with your contractor keeps the claim moving.

After a large event, the order you do things in matters. Safety first, then documentation, then mitigation to stop further damage, then repairs.

This topic is part of our complete guide to water damage restoration. The articles for this topic are listed at the end of the page.

Before a disaster

  • Keep photos or video of your home and belongings stored online.
  • Keep your policy numbers and agent contacts with you.
  • Know how to shut off water, gas and power.
  • Have a restoration company's number saved.

After a disaster

  1. Get everyone safe and follow official instructions.
  2. Report the claim as soon as you can.
  3. Stop further damage: tarp, board up, extract water.
  4. Keep a log of calls, visits and receipts.
  5. Review the estimate with your contractor and adjuster before repairs start.

All 15 articles in this topic

0 published · 15 coming soon
  1. Who Do You Call First During a Major Flooding Emergency?Coming soon
  2. How Do Emergency Shelters Operate During a Major Flood Event?Coming soon
  3. What Should You Do Before an Evacuation Order Due to Flooding?Coming soon
  4. What Should You Do When Returning Home After a Flood Evacuation?Coming soon
  5. How Do Restoration Companies Use Portable Pumping Stations During Large Floods?Coming soon
  6. What Is a Mutual Aid Agreement Between Restoration Companies During Disasters?Coming soon
  7. How Do Emergency Generators Support Water Damage Response During Power Outages?Coming soon
  8. What Certifications Exist for Disaster Restoration Response Specifically?Coming soon
  9. How Do First Responders and Restoration Companies Coordinate During Active Flooding?Coming soon
  10. What Emergency Board-Up and Tarping Services Are Available After Storm Damage?Coming soon
  11. How Do You Verify a Restoration Company's Disaster Response Capacity Before a Storm Hits?Coming soon
  12. What Should a Family Emergency Water Disaster Plan Include?Coming soon
  13. How Do Community Emergency Response Teams Assist With Flood Cleanup?Coming soon
  14. What Risks Do Volunteers Face During Disaster Flood Cleanup Efforts?Coming soon
  15. How Do National Restoration Networks Respond to Regional Water Disasters?Coming soon
Need help after a disaster?

A local crew can be on site in about 45 minutes, 24/7, and we document everything for your insurer.

Don't let damage linger.

Mold and structural damage can start within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. Get a free estimate and immediate dispatch.

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