When bad weather hits, damage can happen fast, but not all damage is treated the same. At First Response Restoration, we often get calls from homeowners in Newton, Brookline, Boston, and Providence asking the same question: “Is this storm damage or flood damage?” The answer matters, especially when it comes to insurance coverage and how quickly you need to act.
What Is Storm Damage?
Storm damage refers to the destruction caused directly by high winds, heavy rain, hail, snow, or fallen trees. This includes:
- Shingles blown off your roof
- Broken windows from debris
- Water intrusion caused by roof or siding damage
- Tree limbs crashing through your home
If the damage occurred because of wind-driven rain or roof damage during a Nor’easter, that falls under storm damage. It’s usually covered by most homeowners’ insurance policies, as long as the damage was sudden and unpreventable.
What Is Flood Damage?
Flood damage, on the other hand, is caused by water that enters your home from rising water levels—usually from rivers, overwhelmed storm drains, or flash floods. Common signs include:
- Water is entering through the basement walls or windows
- Pooling on the ground outside that flows into your home.
- Saturated carpets and walls with no structural breach above
The big catch? Standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage. You need a separate flood insurance policy for that kind of protection.
Why the Difference Matters
We’ve helped homeowners all over Boston and Providence deal with both types of emergencies. Insurance companies handle storm damage and flood damage claims very differently, so it’s important to document everything and call professionals immediately.
What Should You Do?
If you’re unsure what type of damage you’re dealing with, don’t guess. Call First Response Restoration at 774-670-5912. Our certified team will inspect the situation, stop further damage, and help you navigate the insurance claim properly. We respond within 30 minutes—24/7—so you’re never stuck waiting while water makes things worse.
Whether it’s storm damage or flood damage, we’re here to restore your home and peace of mind.
This post was written by a professional at First Response Restoration. First Response Restoration provides Flooded Basement Cleanup Brookline MA, mold removal near you, and emergency restoration services throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New England. We’re licensed, bonded, insured, and fully certified to handle residential and commercial restoration projects.
