After the East Coast Storm: What You Need to Know

Severe storms, like the ones on September 2nd and 3rd, 2026, can leave behind more than fallen trees and power outages. From roof damage and water intrusion to damaged vehicles and flooded basements, the aftermath can be overwhelming—and can leave many wondering what their storm damage insurance may cover. While you can’t prevent every storm, you can take steps before and after a storm to better protect your home, belongings, and finances.

After a Storm:

• Prioritize safety. Stay away from downed power lines, unstable trees, and damaged structures.
• Document damage. Take photos and videos before beginning cleanup, when it is safe.
• Prevent additional damage. Take reasonable temporary measures to protect the property from further damage.
• Contact your insurance agent. Don’t wait until everything is cleaned up to ask what you should do next.
• Keep receipts. Save receipts for emergency repairs, temporary measures, and cleanup.

Don’t Assume You’re Covered for Flooding

One of the biggest misconceptions about insurance is that a standard homeowners or renters policy automatically covers flooding. In most cases, it does not. Flood insurance is a separate coverage designed specifically for flood-related losses and you don’t necessarily have to live in a traditional flood zone to experience flooding. In Pennsylvania, more than 40% of flood insurance claims occur outside high-risk areas.

As Pennsylvania (and other areas) experiences periods of heavier rainfall and more extreme winds, understanding your property’s flood risk is becoming increasingly important. Flooding doesn’t only mean a river overflowing its banks; heavy rainfall, rapid runoff, rising waterways and overwhelmed drainage systems can all contribute to flooding. It’s also important to understand that the source of the water matters when determining which insurance coverage may apply. For example, water entering through a roof damaged by wind may be treated differently than water that rises from outside and enters a home.

Most importantly, don’t wait until the next storm to think about flood insurance. Flood policies can have waiting periods before coverage takes effect, so planning ahead is key. Whether you own a home, rent an apartment or operate a business, it’s worth reviewing your coverage and talking with your insurance professional about your potential flood exposure. A property that has never flooded before isn’t necessarily a property that never will.

Read more about myths and fact of flood insurance here: www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/myths-and-facts-about-flood-insurance. You can also read a previous flood insurance blog we shared following another significant storm: https://www.greatlakesins.com/importance-of-flood-insurance/

Fallen Trees: Coverage for tree removal can vary depending on the circumstances and what was damaged, so it’s best to check with your insurance professional rather than assume what is covered.

Roof Damage: With high winds, roof damage is very common. If you suspect your roof has been damaged, don’t get on the roof yourself – instead, document what you can safely see from the ground and contact your insurance agent. Temporary measures may be appropriate to help prevent additional damage, but major repairs should generally be handled by qualified professionals. Your agent can also help explain the claims process and what documentation may be needed.

Our team may be able to point you toward trusted local professionals for storm-related repairs and cleanup, helping you avoid some of the uncertainty that can come with finding a contractor after a major storm.

Simple Ways to Prepare for the Next Storm

A little preparation can go a long way when severe weather is approaching:

• Trim trees and branches around your property.
• Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
• Check your roof and gutters for visible damage or debris.
• Know where your utility shutoffs are in case they’re needed.
• Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, water, and basic supplies.
• Charge phones and backup battery packs before the storm.
• Create all home inventory.
• Keep your insurance information handy.