Document first, then inspect from the ground: gutters, screens, siding, trim, fences and drainage. What to fix, what to photograph and who to call.
After a storm, stay clear of downed lines, photograph the damage before you move anything, then check the outside from the ground: roof edges, gutters, siding, trim, screens, fences and the ground near the foundation. Report insurance-level damage first. Do small repairs and cleanup after that.
What should I do first after a storm?
FEMA's guidance, in its fact sheet Don't Wait to Clean Up or Make Repairs, says to do the following before you start cleaning:
- Take photos of the damage, inside and out, and label them by room before moving anything.
- Save all repair receipts.
- If you have insurance, separate damaged items from undamaged ones, because an adjuster may need to document them.
- If the house needs a tarp to prevent more damage, put it up as quickly as possible.
- Before entering a house after serious damage, look around the outside for damaged power lines, gas lines and structural damage.
Keep clear of any downed lines and call the utility. The FEMA page is written for flood events, but its documentation steps apply after wind and hail too. Call your insurance company if you are unsure what your policy covers.
What should I inspect from the ground?
You can learn a lot without a ladder. Walk the property slowly and look at:
- Roof edge and roof surface: missing or lifted shingles, flashing that looks bent, debris on the roof. Do not climb up. Report any of this to a licensed roofer.
- Gutters and downspouts: sagging sections, loose brackets, joints pulled apart, overflow marks on the wall.
- Siding and trim: loose, cracked or missing pieces, and gaps where water could get behind.
- Window and door screens: torn mesh, bent frames, popped corners.
- Fences and gates: leaning posts, loose rails, latches that no longer line up.
- Sheds and detached garages: doors that no longer close, damaged trim.
- Ground near the house: pooling, washouts or soil that has shifted near the foundation.
Photograph every item with something for scale.
How do I check gutters after a storm?
The EPA's mold and moisture guide lists cleaning and repairing roof gutters regularly and making sure the ground slopes away from the foundation as basic moisture control. After a storm, look for:
1. Debris in the troughs and at the downspout openings.
2. Sections that hold standing water.
3. Downspouts that have come loose or disconnected.
4. Water marks or staining on siding below the gutters.
Lake Forest's City site notes that about 20 percent of its parkway trees are ash, so tree cover is heavy there and leaves and twigs end up in gutters. A handyman can clear gutters, re-fasten loose sections and reconnect downspouts. Large sections that have pulled off the house may need replacement.
Do storm repairs need a permit?
It depends on the town and the job. Examples from the towns we serve:
- Kenilworth: replacing gutters and downspouts and painting do not need a permit, but structural repairs and fence repairs do.
- Glencoe: the building permit application covers facade changes, new siding and gutters. Roof replacements use a separate roof permit.
- Winnetka: removing and replacing 100 square feet or more of drywall or plaster needs a permit. Painting, refinishing and trim replacement do not.
- Lake Forest: the City says to assume a permit for anything except flooring, painting or planting.
Check with the village or city before you start. Our permit guide for North Shore towns lists contact numbers.
What can a handyman fix after a storm?
- Re-hang or replace screens.
- Re-fasten loose siding and trim, and re-caulk the joints.
- Clear gutters, re-hang sections and reconnect downspouts.
- Repair fence rails, boards and gates. Check your village first if the fence repair is large.
- Re-hang doors and gates that no longer close.
- Patch and paint interior drywall damaged by a leak, once it is dry.
What should go to someone else?
- Roof damage, flashing and leaks: licensed roofer.
- Downed or damaged electrical service, outlets that got wet: licensed electrician and your utility.
- Burst or leaking pipes, sewer backup: licensed plumber.
- Large fallen trees or limbs on the structure: a tree service. Do not remove them from the roof yourself.
- Mold over about 10 square feet or hidden mold: see the EPA's mold guide and consult an experienced professional.
Enhaus refers plumbing, electrical and roofing to licensed independent contractors.
What if the damage is inside?
Dry wet materials fast. The EPA says drying water-damaged areas within 24 to 48 hours prevents mold in most cases. FEMA advises removing drywall and insulation that have been in contact with floodwater, and throwing away porous items that cannot be cleaned. Take photos before removing anything.
A short storm checklist you can save
1. Stay clear of power lines. Check the outside before going in.
2. Photograph and list everything. Keep receipts.
3. Call insurance if the damage may be covered.
4. Tarp or board openings.
5. Walk the gutters, siding, trim, screens, fence and gates.
6. Send the list to the right trades.
7. Book the small repairs in one visit. See how to get more done in one handyman visit.
FAQ
Should I clean up before the adjuster sees the damage?
Photograph everything first and keep damaged items for inspection if possible. FEMA advises documenting damage before cleanup. Ask your insurer what it needs.
Can I climb on the roof to check for damage?
Look from the ground first. Roof work is a licensed-roofer and safety job, and a fall or a missed hole can hurt you or the roof.
Do I need a permit to repair a storm-damaged fence?
Possibly. Kenilworth, for example, requires a permit for new or repaired fences. Check with your village.
Is a bent gutter an emergency?
Usually not, but water spilling onto siding or toward the foundation can cause damage. Re-fasten or replace it soon.
To send your list and photos, call or text (847) 877-1877.
