Safety, Clean-Up, and Documenting Damage

• Before you begin the clean up, take photos and videos of all damage to your home as soon as it is safe.
• You may clean up mud, water, and debris, but do not begin major repairs or tear anything down until after your FEMA inspection and insurance inspection. 
• Make a list of everything that is damaged or destroyed and take photos and videos. Take photos of serial numbers on electronics (e.g., TV, computer, laptop).
• Unless they are dangerous, do not remove damaged furniture or appliances until after your FEMA inspection.  Take photos and videos of anything you have to throw away.
• If you are cleaning out things like clothes, dishes, rugs, and toys that were damaged, do not throw them away until after your FEMA inspection and insurance inspection.
• Save receipts for cleanup costs and supplies, such as generators, dehumidifiers, and chainsaws. 
• You should take steps to protect your home from more damage, like putting a tarp on the roof or boarding up broken windows.

Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and get an itemized estimate from a mechanic for labor and replacement parts. Do not get rid of your vehicle until it is inspected by your insurance company and FEMA. If your vehicle is a total loss, you will need to get a salvage title.