When a Houston storm moves on, the real work begins. You’re juggling safety, utilities, cleanup, and insurance while trying to protect your home’s value. This guide gives you a clear, step‑by‑step checklist for the first 48 hours through the months ahead, plus key Houston contacts and programs. Use it to make good decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and move forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.
First 48 hours: safety and documentation
Check for immediate hazards
- If you smell gas, leave on foot, call 911, then CenterPoint’s emergency line at 888-876-5786. Review CenterPoint’s safety guidance and treat any downed lines as live until professionals clear them. CenterPoint post-storm safety
- Do not operate electrical switches or generators indoors. If the structure looks unsafe, wait for a qualified inspector before re-entering.
Manage utilities and water
- If a boil-water notice is issued, boil or use bottled water until the utility and TCEQ confirm the advisory is lifted. TCEQ boil-water notice guidance
- Only connect generators using a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician.
Document everything for insurance
- Take wide and close‑up photos and video of all damage before moving items. Keep receipts for hotels, cleanup, and temporary repairs. TDI storm claim tips
- For flood losses, start your NFIP claim right away and note Proof of Loss deadlines. How to start an NFIP flood claim
Register for assistance and report damage
- If there’s a disaster declaration, apply for FEMA Individual Assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362. FEMA assistance overview
- Report debris and city service needs via Houston 311 at 713-837-0311 or the app/website. Houston debris reporting and guidance
Days 2–14: cleanup and mold control
Move water out and dry fast
- Mold can start within 24–48 hours on wet materials. Pump out standing water, run fans and dehumidifiers if safe, and ventilate.
- Remove and discard soaked porous items that cannot be fully dried and cleaned, like carpet, padding, insulation, and saturated drywall. CDC cleanup and mold guidance
What you can clean yourself
- For small areas, wash hard surfaces with detergent and water, then disinfect. Wear PPE: N95 respirator, gloves, and goggles.
- If floodwater was contaminated (sewage or surge), treat it as hazardous and discard anything that cannot be sanitized.
When to bring in pros
- Call IICRC‑trained restoration teams for large losses or contaminated water. Reputable firms document moisture readings, drying goals, and decontamination for insurers.
Health precautions
- People with asthma, severe allergies, or compromised immunity should avoid cleanup tasks. Keep kids and pets away from work areas.
Permits, contractors, and utilities in Houston
Know what needs a permit
- Temporary measures like tarping and board‑ups are usually fine right away. Structural, electrical, plumbing, or floodplain work typically requires permits and inspections.
- Before permanent repairs, contact the City of Houston Permitting Center to confirm what’s required and keep all permit receipts for your claim file.
Vet contractors and avoid scams
- Verify a local address and phone, check references and insurance, and get everything in writing with a clear scope and payment schedule.
- Never sign over insurance checks and avoid large upfront cash payments. FEMA does not certify contractors; report suspected fraud to the National Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. BBB tips to avoid storm chasers
Electrical, gas, and utility reconnection
- In Texas, licensed professionals must handle most electrical, plumbing, and gas work. Utilities may require permits and inspections before reconnection.
- Coordinate among your contractor, inspector, and utility, and keep copies of permits, inspections, and invoices.
Debris, assistance, and local programs
Debris pickup and reporting
- Sort and stage debris by type per city guidance. Expect delays after major events and report issues through Houston 311 so crews can plan routes. City debris guidance and 311
FEMA, SBA, and NFIP options
- FEMA grants can help with temporary housing and essential repairs. SBA offers low‑interest disaster loans; representatives often staff Disaster Recovery Centers. How to apply for FEMA aid
- NFIP policyholders should file claims immediately and track deadlines for Proof of Loss. Start an NFIP claim
County floodplain and buyout programs
- If your home sits in a mapped floodplain, additional permits or elevation requirements may apply. Harris County Flood Control District also runs voluntary buyout programs for repeatedly flooded properties. HCFCD Storm Center and resources
Plan ahead for next time
Flood insurance and mitigation
- Most homeowners policies don’t cover flood. Many flood policies have a 30‑day waiting period, so do not wait for the next storm to review coverage.
- Consider elevating key systems, using flood‑resistant materials, and installing backflow prevention. Confirm any changes with the city before you start.
Watch flood map updates
- FEMA and Harris County are updating flood models and maps. New maps can change floodplain designations and insurance requirements, especially in low‑lying areas. Stay informed so you can plan permits and coverage accordingly. Updates on Harris County FEMA flood maps
Quick checklist: from hours to months
0–48 hours
- Leave immediately if you smell gas; call 911 and CenterPoint at 888-876-5786.
- Follow any boil‑water notice; use bottled or boiled water for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth.
- Photograph and video all damage before moving or discarding items.
- Contact your insurer and start an NFIP claim if applicable.
- Report urgent debris and city issues through Houston 311 at 713-837-0311.
Days 3–14
- Pump out water and start drying to limit mold; remove unsalvageable porous items.
- Make temporary repairs only until your adjuster inspects. Save all receipts.
- Vet contractors carefully; avoid large upfront payments and do not sign over insurance proceeds.
Weeks to months
- Apply for FEMA assistance and consider SBA loans if needed.
- Pull required City of Houston permits for structural, electrical, plumbing, and floodplain work.
- Explore mitigation: elevate systems, use flood‑resistant materials, and ask HCFCD about buyout eligibility if you’ve flooded repeatedly.
Recovering quickly and wisely protects your health, your home, and your equity. If you want a second set of eyes on repair decisions that affect resale, timing your next move, or which improvements matter most in Houston’s inner‑loop market, reach out to Gayle G. Kennedy. You’ll get clear, local guidance tailored to your home and goals.
FAQs
What should Houston homeowners do first after a storm if there’s a gas smell?
- Leave the home on foot, call 911, then CenterPoint at 888-876-5786. Do not use switches, phones, or generators indoors until you’re in a safe location.
How do boil-water notices work in Houston after storms?
- If system pressure drops or contamination is suspected, utilities issue a boil‑water notice. Boil water or use bottled water until the utility confirms the notice is lifted after required testing.
When should I hire a professional for water damage and mold?
- Bring in pros for large areas, sewage or surge (contaminated) water, or if anyone in the home is at higher health risk. Pros should document moisture readings and drying progress for your insurer.
Do I need a permit for storm repairs in the City of Houston?
- Temporary tarps and board‑ups are usually fine, but structural, electrical, plumbing, and floodplain work generally require permits and inspections. Confirm requirements with the City before permanent repairs.
How do I avoid contractor scams after a Houston storm?
- Verify licenses and insurance, get written contracts, compare multiple bids, avoid large upfront payments, and never sign over insurance checks. FEMA does not certify contractors.
What local resources can help with debris and flood information in Harris County?
- Use Houston 311 for debris reporting and guidance, and visit Harris County Flood Control District’s resources for floodplain information and any buyout program updates.
