Storm and hurricane water damage combines roof leaks, wind driven rain and sometimes flooding. Document damage, tarp openings, call early before crews fill up, and separate wind and flood losses for insurance.
What storm and hurricane water damage involves
Gulf storms bring several kinds of water damage at once. Wind tears roofing and breaks windows, rain enters through the openings, and storm surge or rising bayous can flood ground floors.
Houston's hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Hurricane Beryl in July 2024 caused widespread power outages and wind damage across the metro, and the 2017 Harvey flood remains the benchmark for rainfall driven damage.
Signs you may need this service
- Missing shingles or damaged roof decking
- Water at windows, doors or garage thresholds
- Ceiling stains after wind driven rain
- Water entering during a storm surge or street flooding
- Damp insulation in the attic
What happens step by step
- Stay safe and wait for the all clear
- Photograph damage before temporary repairs
- Tarp or board up openings to stop more rain
- Call early because demand spikes after storms
- Separate wind and rain damage from flood damage in your records
- Remove wet materials and dry the structure
Why this matters in Houston
Houston properties can face wind, rain and flood in the same event. Insurance treats these differently, so notes and photos that show how water entered help your claim. Check the National Weather Service Houston and Galveston office for live warnings.
Mistakes that make damage worse
- Waiting until the storm passes to call when crews fill up fast
- Throwing away damaged items before they are photographed
- Mixing wind and flood damage in one claim description
- Skipping emergency tarping and letting the next storm in
Cost considerations
After widespread storms demand rises and pricing can vary. Ask for a written scope, confirm what the insurer will pay and keep receipts for temporary repairs, which are often reimbursable.
How this connects to the rest of your recovery
Most Houston losses involve more than one issue, so read this alongside flood damage cleanup and roof and ceiling leak water damage. Our main page on Houston water damage cleanup shows every situation we cover and how the process works.
Property owners in Cypress, Friendswood and Webster regularly ask about this kind of loss. Local conditions in each area differ, so check the page for your city to see ZIP codes and the causes we see most often there.
Storms can also cause fires from downed power lines and generators. See fire and smoke damage restoration, and read mold remediation if wind driven rain soaked the structure.
Helpful guides
- Hurricane Season Water Damage Prep for Houston Homes
- Flood Damage vs Water Damage Insurance in Houston
Related services
Flood Damage Cleanup
Cleanup, removal and drying after rising water enters a Houston property.
Learn more
Roof and Ceiling Leak Water Damage
Drying and cleanup after leaks through the roof, attic or ceiling.
Learn more
Water Extraction
Pumping out standing water and pulling moisture from carpet, pad and floors.
Learn more
Emergency Water Damage Restoration
Active leaks, flooding and sudden water loss that needs a crew now.
Learn more
Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration
Soot, smoke odor and structural cleanup after a house, kitchen or business fire.
Learn moreFrequently asked questions
When should I call after a hurricane?
As soon as it is safe. Crews fill quickly after major storms.
Is wind driven rain covered by homeowners insurance?
Often yes if the wind created an opening, but policies vary. Flood is generally excluded from standard policies.
What is the difference between wind damage and flood damage?
Wind damage comes from storm winds and rain entering through damage above. Flood damage comes from rising water entering at ground level.
Do you help after Houston storms?
Yes. Call 24/7 with your ZIP code.
Can I make temporary repairs myself?
Yes when safe. Keep receipts and photos. Do not climb on a wet roof.
How long do I have to report a storm claim in Texas?
Policies set their own deadlines, so report as soon as you can. Ask your insurer for the exact filing window.
Water Damage Restoration Houston is not the contractor. The independent company that arrives sets its own pricing, licenses and terms and does the work. See our disclaimer.