Big winter storms rarely cause just one problem. A roof leak soaks an attic, wind drives rain past a window, and runoff pours into the crawlspace, all on the same night. Restoration providers deal with the water inside; roofers and other trades fix the openings.
After the storm passes
- Check for hazards first: downed lines, gas smell, sagging ceilings. Call 911 or PG&E as needed.
- Find every entry point you can see: ceilings, window sills, door thresholds, the crawlspace hatch.
- Photograph inside and out before any cleanup.
- Get openings covered. A roofer can tarp a damaged roof.
- Call a restoration provider to extract and dry, and notify your insurer.
Crawlspaces get missed
Water under the house is out of sight, but it raises humidity in the home and soaks insulation and framing. Look through the hatch with a flashlight after big storms. Standing water there usually needs pumping and professional drying.
Stay informed during storms
Sign up for SoCoAlert, which sends evacuation notices and flood warnings, and keep an eye on National Weather Service Bay Area forecasts. Our El Niño flood prevention guide has a full prep checklist.
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Where we connect homeowners
- Water damage in Santa Rosa
- Water damage in Petaluma
- Water damage in Rohnert Park & Cotati
- Water damage in Windsor
- Water damage in Healdsburg
- Water damage in Sebastopol
- Water damage in Sonoma
- Water damage in Glen Ellen & Kenwood
- Water damage in Cloverdale
- Water damage in Guerneville & the lower Russian River
- Water damage in Forestville
Other services
- Water damage restoration
- Emergency water removal
- Flood cleanup
- Burst pipe water damage
- Sewage backup cleanup
Frequently asked questions
Is wind-driven rain covered by insurance?
Water that comes in through storm damage, like a roof opening torn by wind, is often covered. Rising floodwater from outside usually isn't, unless you have flood insurance.
Should I wait for the adjuster before cleanup?
Don't wait to prevent more damage. Document everything with photos first, then start mitigation. Insurers generally expect you to protect the property.