Post-Storm Recovery Checklist

Start Here: Your Roadmap to Post-Storm Recovery

In the aftermath of a hurricane or tropical storm, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. The recovery process can take time, but knowing what steps to take—and in what order—can help you protect your property, document your losses, and get the help you need. This checklist is your guide through every phase of post-storm recovery in Volusia County.

PHASE 1: Immediate Safety and Damage Control (First 24–48 Hours)

1. Check Yourself, Your Family, and Neighbors

• Ensure everyone is accounted for and safe from injury.
• Administer basic first aid, and call 911 for serious injuries.
• Check on neighbors, particularly the elderly or those with disabilities.

2. Avoid Hazards and Re-enter with Caution

• Do not enter flood-damaged buildings until they are declared structurally safe.
• Avoid standing water—it may contain chemicals, sewage, or be electrically charged.
• Be alert for wildlife that may have entered your home (snakes, fire ants, rodents).
• Use flashlights—not candles—for lighting to reduce fire risk if the power is off.

3. Turn Off Utilities if You Suspect Damage

• Electricity: If there’s water damage, turn off the power at the main breaker.
• Gas: If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate and call your gas company.
• Water: Shut off water lines if pipes are broken or leaking.

PHASE 2: Initial Property Assessment and Documentation

4. Conduct a Thorough Walkthrough of Your Property

• Inspect the roof, walls, windows, doors, and foundation for visible damage.
• Look for water stains, sagging ceilings, warped floors, and mold growth.
• Examine detached structures like garages, sheds, fences, and carports.

5. Take Detailed Photos and Video of All Damage

• Document every room and affected area from multiple angles before you start any cleanup efforts as insurance adjusters and FEMA will need this documentation.
• Take close-ups of major damage (roof shingles, fallen trees, broken windows).
• Include photos of household items like furniture, appliances, and electronics.

6. Start a Written Inventory of Damaged Belongings

• List each item with brand name, model/serial number, approximate age, and estimated value.
• Save receipts if you have them.
• Take pictures of your receipts and store everything digitally.

PHASE 3: Reporting Damage and Starting Cleanup

7. Report Property Damage to Volusia County

This report is not a request for emergency services or insurance claims. It helps determine the scale of damage across the area and supports the County’s efforts to qualify for FEMA assistance for the community.

Submit a Residential Damage Report

You’ll be asked to provide:

• Contact info
• Address of affected property
• Type of structure (single-family, manufactured home, rental, etc.)
• Description and estimated extent of damage
• Upload photos if available

8. Sort and Place Storm Debris Properly

Debris is required to be sorted into specific categories to be eligible for public removal.

Sort debris into the following piles:

• Vegetative Debris: Tree limbs, leaves, branches
• Construction & Demolition Debris: Drywall, wood, carpet, insulation, siding
• Appliances: Refrigerators, washers, stoves (remove doors)
• Electronics: TVs, computers, phones
• Hazardous Waste: Paint, motor oil, propane tanks (do NOT place curbside—take to a disposal site)

Photograph all piles before pickup. This documentation may support reimbursement or aid eligibility.

9. Use Safety Precautions While Cleaning

• Wear heavy-duty gloves, eye protection, and boots.
• Use an N95 mask when cleaning mold or water-damaged drywall.
• Disinfect anything that comes into contact with floodwaters.
• Be mindful of heat exhaustion; take breaks and hydrate.

PHASE 4: Repairs, Insurance, and Permitting

10. Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately

• Report all damage and begin the claims process.
• Ask your adjuster what documentation is needed.
• Don’t discard high-value items until advised by your insurer.
• Keep a log of all communication with your insurance provider.

11. Understand What Requires a Permit

Certain repairs may not begin without a building permit.
 

Visit the Permitting & Rebuilding Page

Permits are typically required for:

• Roof repair or replacement
• Electrical panel/service changes
• Structural repairs or reconstruction
• Plumbing replacement
• HVAC system installation

Minor repairs like replacing broken windows or removing carpet may not require a permit—but always check first.

12. Use Only Licensed Contractors

• Ask for a state license and insurance proof.
• Check license status at www.myfloridalicense.com
• Avoid contractors who show up unsolicited or demand immediate cash.

PHASE 5: Accessing FEMA and Other Recovery Assistance

13. Monitor for Federal Disaster Declarations

A disaster declaration enables access to FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program. The County will notify residents once this occurs.

14. Apply for FEMA Assistance

• Apply Online
• Call 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Use the FEMA app to apply and upload documents

You may be eligible for:

• Temporary housing or rental assistance
• Grants for essential repairs not covered by insurance
• Reimbursement for storm-related medical, dental, or funeral costs
• Personal property replacement (appliances, furniture, clothing)

15. Follow Up and Track Your Claim

• Save your FEMA application number
• Upload requested documents promptly
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center if you need in-person assistance
• Check DRC Locations

Special Considerations for Renters

16. Communicate with Your Landlord

• Document and report damage in writing
• Landlords are responsible for structural repairs
• Renters may be responsible for damaged personal items only
• Reminder- renter’s insurance can help protect your personal items located within the dwelling.

17. Document Your Losses

• Take photos and create an inventory of damaged property
• Renters insurance may cover personal belongings
• If uninsured, apply for FEMA aid for personal loss and temporary housing

18. Seek Shelter or Temporary Housing Assistance

If your unit is uninhabitable:

• Seek shelter through Volusia County’s emergency shelters if they are still operating
• Apply for FEMA rental assistance or hotel reimbursement

PHASE 6: Stay Informed and Connect with Recovery Resources

19. Stay Informed through the County

• Sign up for AlertVolusia
• Sign up for the County’s newsletter
• Download the Emergency Management app
• Call the Citizens Information Center at 866-345-0345

20. Know Who to Contact

• FEMA Helpline: 800-621-3362
• Florida Division of Emergency Management: 850-815-4000
• United Way 2-1-1: Food, shelter, and local resources
• Red Cross: 800-733-2767