Property Damage
Storm Response Active. If your property sustained damage during the severe weather, take the steps below. Last updated: August 13, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Immediately contact your insurance carrier if you believe your property sustained damage. Most policies have deadlines for reporting claims. Have your policy number ready when you call.
Property Damage Steps
Immediately contact your insurance carrier if you believe your property sustained damage.
Request a list of preferred contractors from your insurance carrier, the Better Business Bureau, or a specialized organization.
Make sure the contractor is registered with the Ohio Secretary of State.
Contact multiple contractors and obtain more than one estimate.
Document Your Damage First
Before you begin cleanup or repairs, document all damage if it is safe to do so.
Take photos and video of every damaged area, inside and outside. Note the date and time.
Keep all receipts for emergency supplies, temporary repairs, and any professional services you hire.
This documentation is required for insurance claims and for any assistance programs that may become available.
Do not throw away damaged items until your insurance carrier tells you it is acceptable to do so.
Verify Your Contractor
After severe weather, fraudulent contractors often go door to door offering fast repairs. Protect yourself before you hire anyone.
Verify registration with the Ohio Secretary of State at ohiosos.gov.
Check the contractor with the Better Business Bureau at bbb.org.
Request the preferred contractor list from your insurance carrier.
Obtain more than one estimate. Contact multiple contractors before you decide.
Get a written contract before any work begins.
Do not pay in full upfront. A deposit is standard. Full payment before work is complete is not.
To report suspected contractor fraud, contact the Ohio Attorney General at 1-800-828-0348 or visit ohioattorneygeneral.gov.
Before You Enter a Damaged Building
Do not enter a building with visible structural damage until it has been cleared by a professional. Call 911 if you believe a structure is at risk of collapse.
Do not use electrical equipment that has been wet until a licensed electrician has inspected it.
Do not step in standing water if electrical equipment may be submerged nearby.
If you smell gas, leave immediately. Do not turn any lights or switches on or off. Once you are safely outside and away from the building, call Columbia Gas at 1-800-282-7820.
For information on power and electrical safety, visit Columbus Water and Power.
Report Storm Damage to 311
Call 311 at 614-645-3111 or visit 311 on Columbus.gov to submit service requests on issues including:
A tree blocking the street. Basement flooding caused by sewer backup. Street flooding.
311 handles damage on public property and public right of way. Damage entirely on private property is the responsibility of the property owner and their insurance carrier.
Cleanup Safety
Cleanup after severe weather carries real risk. Take your time and protect yourself.
Wear closed toe shoes, work gloves, and eye protection. Only use chainsaws and power tools you are trained to operate. Never work alone.
Take breaks in a cool place and drink water. Heat exhaustion during cleanup is a real risk when the power is out.
Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, or in any enclosed space. Carbon monoxide from generators is deadly. Place generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from your home.
Wounds from debris or floodwater: Wash wounds immediately with soap and water and cover them. Keep your routine 10 year tetanus booster up to date. For deep, dirty, or puncture wounds, a booster may be needed if it has been more than 5 years. Seek medical care within 24 to 48 hours for wound cleaning or an expedited booster.
Mold prevention: Begin drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Open windows if weather permits. Use fans and dehumidifiers if available.
For complete guidance on staying safe during and after a natural disaster, visit CDC Natural Disaster Safety.
If You Cannot Stay in Your Home
The American Red Cross activated an emergency shelter for neighbors whose homes have been impacted by the severe weather at the Scioto Southland Community Center, 3901 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43207.
For shelter information, call 1-800-RED CROSS at 1-800-733-2767.
View full emergency shelter information
Insurance Questions
If you need help understanding your policy or have a dispute with your insurer, contact the Ohio Department of Insurance at 1-800-686-1300 or visit insurance.ohio.gov.
Call 911 for life threatening emergencies, including downed live power lines, structural collapse, fire, or medical emergencies.
Call 311 at 614-645-3111 for all non-emergency storm needs.
Questions? Call 311 at 614-645-3111.
Page last updated: August 13, 2026, 9:00 a.m. | Content owners: Mayor's Office / Columbus Department of Public Service | Publisher: Department of Technology | The City of Columbus does not endorse specific contractors. Verify any contractor before hiring.