Northeast Oklahoma sees frequent severe thunderstorms, including heavy rain, strong winds, and hail. Storm-related water damage comes from two directions: from above, when roofs, flashing, or windows are damaged, and from ground level, when runoff finds a way in.
What storm water damage involves
Storm water damage service often starts with temporary protection, such as tarping a damaged roof or boarding a broken window, followed by water removal and drying. Roof repair is usually a separate trade.
Whether storm water is treated as clean or contaminated depends on where it came from. Rain through a roof is generally cleaner than surface runoff that crossed yards and streets.
Common causes
- Hail and wind roof damage
- Damaged shingles, flashing, or decking let rain into the attic and ceilings.
- Wind-driven rain
- Rain forced around windows, doors, and siding during high winds.
- Runoff and poor drainage
- Water flowing toward the foundation, into garages, or through door thresholds.
- Clogged gutters and downspouts
- Overflowing gutters can dump water against walls and foundations.
- Fallen trees and limbs
- Can puncture roofs and open the home to rain.
What to do right now
- Wait until the storm passes and it's safe to go outside or into the attic.
- Watch for downed power lines; stay far away and report them to your electric utility.
- Place buckets and towels under active drips; move belongings away from leaks.
- Photograph roof, window, and interior damage for insurance.
- Arrange temporary protection for open roof areas or broken windows.
What to avoid
- Don't climb onto a wet or damaged roof.
- Don't go into an attic with wet insulation and exposed wiring without caution; step only on framing.
- Don't sign contracts with door-to-door storm contractors on the spot. Take time to verify who you're dealing with.
- Don't delay reporting storm damage to your insurer; many policies have time limits.
After a big storm in the Tulsa area
Widespread storms can create high demand for roofers, tarping, and water removal all at once. Door-to-door solicitation often follows. Verify any contractor's identity, license, and insurance before signing, and be cautious of anyone asking for large payments up front.
Flooding vs. storm damage
Insurers often treat rain entering through storm-damaged roofs differently from outside flooding that rises into the house. The distinction can affect coverage. See flood cleanup and the insurance basics guide.
Reducing the next storm's damage
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear, with extensions directing water away from the foundation.
- Check that soil slopes away from the house.
- Inspect the roof and attic after hail, even if nothing is dripping yet.
- Know where your main water shutoff and breaker panel are.
Damage it can cause
- Wet attic insulation and ceiling drywall
- Water inside exterior walls around windows
- Soaked flooring near doors and in garages
- Mold growth in attics and walls that stay damp
When professional help may be appropriate
- Water came through the ceiling or attic
- Insulation or drywall is wet
- Runoff entered living areas
- The roof or a window needs emergency protection
If any of these apply, it may be time to talk to a provider.
Request HelpQuestions to ask a provider
- Do you provide emergency tarping or board-up, or should I call a roofer?
- Will you check attic insulation and wall cavities for moisture?
- Is this water clean or contaminated, and how does that change the plan?
- Can you provide proof of license and insurance, and a local contact? (Verify independently.)
Providers you reach through this site are independent. Verify licensing, insurance, and pricing directly with them before authorizing work.
Storm Water Damage: common questions
Is storm water damage covered by insurance?
Rain entering through storm-damaged roofs or windows is often covered under homeowners policies, while rising outside floodwater usually isn't. Coverage depends on your policy and the cause; ask your insurer.
What should I do if my roof is leaking during a storm?
Contain the drip with buckets, move belongings, keep away from wet ceilings and light fixtures, and wait until the storm passes before arranging tarping and water removal.