Hurricane and Storm Damage Checklist for Hampton Roads

Hampton Roads is one of the most storm-exposed metropolitan areas on the East Coast. The region's geography — low elevation, coastal exposure, tidal rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay — makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricane surge flooding, nor'easter damage, and severe thunderstorm damage that would be far less impactful in most inland areas.

Before the Storm

• •Document your property's pre-storm condition with photos and video — this establishes a baseline for your insurance claim
• •Locate your insurance policy number and your agent's contact information
• •Shut off electricity to flood-prone areas of the home if flooding is anticipated
• •Know your evacuation zone and follow official instructions from local authorities
• •Move important documents, medications, and irreplaceable items to a safe location

Immediately After the Storm — Before You Enter

• •Wait for local authorities to declare the area safe before re-entering
• •Be aware that downed power lines and flooded roads may still be present
• •Check for visible structural damage from outside before entering — a sagging roofline or shifted foundation is a warning sign
• •Do not enter if you smell gas — leave immediately and call 911 from a safe distance

What to Document

• •Roof damage — missing shingles, punctures, displaced materials
• •Standing water inside the property — depth and affected rooms
• •Exterior damage — siding, fencing, outbuildings
• •Fallen trees or debris on or near the structure
• •All window and door damage
• •Damage to HVAC equipment, electrical panels, or water heaters

Temporary Protection — Board-Up and Roof Tarping

If your property has openings — broken windows, damaged doors, or roof penetrations — temporary protection prevents further weather damage while permanent repairs are scheduled. Emergency board-up and roof tarping are typically covered under the mitigation portion of a homeowners policy.

Working With Your Insurance Company After a Storm

Storm events create high claim volumes across the region, and adjusters become busy quickly. File your claim as soon as possible and get a claim number. Provide your documentation to the adjuster and request a written estimate from a licensed restoration company. Do not begin major cleanup or demolition until your adjuster has visited — or until you have written authorization to proceed.