Boston's storm events — nor'easters, tropical storm remnants, summer thunderstorms, and ice storms — cause real structural damage to buildings. The steps you take in the first 24–72 hours after storm damage significantly affect both the extent of damage and your insurance claim.
Safety first: before assessing damage, confirm the building is structurally safe to enter — significant structural damage, electrical hazards from downed lines, and gas leaks are all possible after severe storms. If there's any question about structural safety, contact Boston Fire Department or a licensed structural engineer before entering. Once safe, document everything before any cleanup — photograph and video all damage, all affected surfaces, and any damaged personal property. Then take reasonable steps to prevent further damage: tarp damaged roofing, board broken windows, place buckets under active leaks. Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency →
Most Massachusetts property insurance policies require prompt notice of loss — typically within 24–72 hours for significant damage. Delaying notification can jeopardize your claim. When you call, have your policy number ready and provide a general description of the damage. The insurer will schedule an adjuster inspection. Do not make permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects — temporary protective measures (tarping, boarding) are appropriate and expected, but permanent repairs before inspection can be used to dispute the claim. Massachusetts Division of Insurance →
Proper restoration addresses all damage — not just what's visible on the surface. Water that entered through a storm-damaged roof or window infiltrates wall cavities, insulation, and structural members. A proper restoration assessment opens affected areas to inspect for moisture penetration, mold growth, and structural damage beyond the obvious. Patching the roof without addressing water-damaged wall framing produces a building that looks repaired but continues to deteriorate from the inside. We provide comprehensive damage assessments that identify all affected areas, not just the surface damage. FEMA storm damage resources →
Water that enters a Boston building during a storm and isn't fully dried within 24–48 hours creates conditions for mold growth. In Boston's humid climate, wet insulation, damp drywall, and wet framing members can develop mold quickly — particularly in warm months. After any storm water infiltration, the priority is getting moisture levels down: remove soaked insulation, deploy dehumidifiers, and verify that structural framing is drying to below 15% moisture content before closing walls. We will not close up water-damaged wall assemblies until moisture levels confirm no active mold risk. EPA mold cleanup guidance →
Storm damage events attract unlicensed contractors who appear in affected areas soliciting work — offering quick, low-cost repairs that frequently fail within months. In Boston, any contractor performing home improvement work over $1,000 requires an HIC license from Massachusetts. Verify license status before signing any contract. We maintain all required licenses and insurance, provide written contracts specifying all work and materials, and do not ask for full payment before work is complete. Verify MA contractor license →
Need Storm Damage Repair in Boston?
AURA Painting Inc serves all Boston neighborhoods. Licensed MA #193121, fully insured, 2-year warranty. Free estimates — most jobs scheduled within the week.
Call (617) 777-7700 ← Back to Storm Damage Repair