Phone answered 24/7 · Oakland, CA and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (510) 318-3798
Lake Merritt Water ResponseWater Damage Help · Oakland, CA

What Should a Property Manager Do After Storm Damage?

Last updated October 26, 2026

Call Now (510) 318-3798

The short answer

Safety First

After a storm, walk the property carefully before anyone enters. Look for fallen branches, broken glass, or standing water near electrical outlets. If you smell gas or see sparking wires, keep everyone away and contact the utility company right away.

Do not enter rooms with sagging ceilings or visible structural damage. Turn off the main water supply if pipes are broken. If anyone feels unwell from fumes or exposure, see a doctor. Your priority is preventing injuries, not saving belongings.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of every affected area, including close-ups of water lines on walls and floors. Note the time and date of the storm and when you first noticed the damage. Keep receipts for any emergency supplies you buy, like tarps or fans.

Write down a list of damaged items, their approximate age, and their condition. This record helps you track what needs repair and what might be replaced. Store all documentation in a safe, dry place, and keep digital copies as backup.

  • Photograph each room from multiple angles
  • Record water levels and visible stains
  • List damaged furniture and appliances
  • Note any odors or signs of mold
  • Save all receipts for temporary fixes
  • Keep a log of every conversation

Stop Further Damage

Once it is safe, take simple steps to limit the harm. Place buckets under leaks, move furniture off wet carpets, and use boards to cover broken windows. If you can, lift soaked rugs and prop up wet upholstery so air can reach it.

Do not attempt major repairs yourself. The pros have the right equipment to dry out walls and floors properly. Your quick actions can reduce the scope of the work, but professional help is still needed to prevent hidden moisture from causing rot or mold.

Contact Your Insurance

Check your policy to see what storm damage coverage you have. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the claim and ask about next steps. They may require an inspection before any work begins.

Share your documentation with the adjuster and keep copies for yourself. Do not throw away damaged items until told it is okay. Your insurer can guide you on what to keep and what can be discarded, so ask before you clean up too much.

Call in the Pros

After the immediate hazards are handled, contact local water damage pros to assess the property. They can check for moisture in walls, under floors, and in crawl spaces that you cannot see. Their evaluation helps you understand the full extent of the damage and what repairs are needed.

If you live in Oakland, keep a list of emergency contacts handy for future storms. The pros can also handle water damage documentation and structural repairs if needed. Their work typically involves drying, cleaning, and restoring affected areas, but the exact process depends on the damage.

  • Ask for a written assessment of the damage
  • Request a plan for drying and repairs
  • Confirm what you need to do yourself
  • Keep records of all professional visits
  • Check that the work area is safe before reopening
  • Follow up on any lingering moisture issues

Plan for the Future

Once the immediate crisis is over, think about how to prevent similar damage next time. Trim trees near the building, check roof shingles, and clean gutters regularly. Make sure your property manager file includes a list of trusted contractors and your insurance policy details.

Review your emergency plan with residents or tenants, so everyone knows what to do during a storm. Keep important documents in a waterproof container. A little preparation can save time and stress when the next storm hits.

Talk to someone now

Call (510) 318-3798 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

Call Now (510) 318-3798

Frequently asked questions

How soon should I act after a storm?

Act within the first 24 to 48 hours if possible. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes. Start documenting and protecting the property right away, and call the pros soon after.

Can I clean up the water myself?

You can remove small amounts of surface water with towels or a wet vacuum, but do not attempt to dry out walls or subflooring yourself. Hidden moisture can lead to mold and structural damage. Let the pros handle the heavy drying.

What if I find mold after the storm?

If you see mold or smell a musty odor, avoid disturbing it. Mold can spread when touched. Contact a mold professional for testing and removal. Your health and the safety of residents come first.

Call Now (510) 318-3798