What to Do After a Flood in Texas

Flooding is among the most common and costly natural disasters in Texas. Whether you live along the Gulf Coast, near a river, or in a rapidly growing city with stressed drainage systems, floods can strike with little warning.

Knowing what to do after a flood in Texas can help keep your family safe, protect your property, and make recovery smoother.

Listen to local officials for updates, instructions, and the “all-clear” to return to your home
Check in with your family and friends to ensure their safety
Watch out for and avoid downed power lines and other dangerous debris
Stay out of damaged buildings and homes until officials say it is safe to return
Extensively photograph and video damage to your property to make filing an insurance claim easier

Immediate safety steps after a flood

The first priority after flooding is always safety. If you evacuated, do not re-enter your home until local officials say it is safe. Floodwaters can compromise structural integrity, cause gas leaks, or leave behind dangerous electrical hazards.

Here are key flood safety tips:

Avoid downed power lines and report them immediately.
Stay away from standing floodwaters, which may contain chemicals, sewage, or sharp debris.
Check for the smell of gas or hissing sounds—signs of a possible leak.
Call 911 or local emergency services if you see immediate hazards such as live wires, collapsed structures, or medical emergencies.
Wear sturdy shoes to protect your feet. Cuts and punctures from debris are among the most common injuries after disasters.
Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns when inspecting buildings instead of candles. This reduces fire risk, especially if gas leaks or flammable materials are present.

From personal safety to long-term recovery, taking the right actions after a flood can make the process less overwhelming and more manageable. Knowing where to start helps you prioritize what matters most: protecting your health, preventing further damage to your home, and connecting with the right resources for support.

Documenting flood damage for insurance claims

Once it’s safe to return, start documenting the damage for insurance claims before cleanup begins. This step is critical to maximize what you can recover.

Take photos and videos of every damaged area, including flooring, walls, appliances, and personal belongings.
Keep receipts for any temporary repairs, supplies, or services.
Notify your insurance company right away.

If you have flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private provider, contact them immediately. The Texas Department of Insurance also offers resources to help you navigate claims.

Cleaning and disinfecting your home after flooding

Flood cleanup in Texas requires urgency and caution. With the state’s hot, humid climate, mold can begin to grow within 24–48 hours. Protect yourself and your family by taking the following steps:

Remove waterlogged carpet, drywall, insulation, and furniture.
Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to speed up drying.
Wear protective gloves, boots, and masks during cleanup.
Disinfect hard surfaces with bleach or specialized cleaners to kill bacteria.
Discard food that has come in contact with floodwater. Even canned goods should be thrown out if dented, rusted, or damaged.
If drinking water is questionable, boil it, disinfect with bleach, or distill it before use. Private wells that were submerged should be pumped out and tested for safety before being used again. Contact your local public health office for support.
Pump out flooded basements gradually—about one-third of the water per day—to prevent structural damage. Draining it too quickly can cause walls to buckle or collapse.
Repair damaged septic tanks or leaching systems promptly, since compromised sewage systems pose major health risks.

Thorough cleaning and careful disinfection not only protect your home but also safeguard your family’s health. Once the immediate hazards are addressed, you’ll be in a much stronger position to move on to the next stages of recovery.

Restoring utilities and electrical systems

Never attempt to restore utilities on your own after a flood. Water and electricity are a deadly combination. Always wait for clearance from licensed electricians and plumbers.

Do not turn the power back on until inspected by a professional.
Have gas lines checked for leaks or blockages.
Work with local water providers to ensure your water supply is safe before using it again.

Getting utilities back online is a major milestone in flood recovery, but it should always be done with caution and professional guidance. Once your home’s essential systems are safely restored, you can shift your focus to protecting your health and addressing the hidden risks that often come with flooding.

Health and safety concerns after Texas flooding

Floodwaters often carry hidden health risks. Beyond sewage and chemical contamination, stagnant water can also spread mosquito-borne illnesses. Protect yourself and your family by following these guidelines:

Throw out any food that has touched floodwater.
Use bottled or boiled water until your supply is declared safe.
Watch for signs of mold exposure, such as headaches, coughing, or skin irritation.
Seek medical help if wounds become infected or symptoms worsen after cleanup.
Stay alert for displaced wildlife. Snakes and other animals can take shelter in flooded homes or debris. Use a stick or tool when moving items instead of reaching in by hand.

Staying alert to these health risks can make recovery safer and less stressful. Once you’ve taken steps to protect your family’s well-being, the next priority is finding the financial and community resources that can help you rebuild.

Financial and disaster assistance resources in Texas

Recovering from flooding often requires outside support. Texans may be eligible for several programs, including:

FEMA disaster assistance for temporary housing and repairs.
Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses.
Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) resources to connect residents with recovery help.

Apply for aid as soon as possible, since many programs operate on strict timelines and limited funding. Keep detailed records of every application you submit, along with receipts, photos, and any correspondence with agencies or insurers. Staying organized not only helps speed up the approval process but also ensures you have the documentation you need if questions or disputes arise later on.

Preparing for future floods in Texas

Flooding is becoming more frequent in Texas, but taking preventative steps now can reduce damage later. Consider these improvements:

Elevate electrical systems and appliances above flood level.
Install sump pumps and backflow valves.
Review flood insurance coverage every year.
Check FEMA and Texas Flood Maps to understand your local risk.

Taking proactive steps today can make a major difference the next time severe weather strikes. Just as important, staying informed about your flood zone and community resources gives you the confidence to act quickly when storms approach. Preparation doesn’t prevent floods, but it does put you in control of how well you can withstand and recover from them.

Recovering from Texas flooding

Flood recovery takes time, patience, and persistence. In the days and weeks after a disaster, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but taking each step carefully makes the process more manageable. Prioritize safety at every stage, from inspecting your home to restoring utilities, and don’t hesitate to lean on professional guidance when repairs or inspections are needed. Just as important, stay connected with local and state resources that can provide financial aid, health support, and community assistance. By approaching recovery with caution and preparation, you can protect your family, restore your home, and build resilience for the future.

Written by Graham Lumley

Graham Lumley, Digital Marketing Manager at BKV Energy, leads digital and traditional marketing strategies, focusing on educating Texans about the state's deregulated energy market. With over 8 years of marketing experience, he creates content to help consumers understand and save on their energy bills, bringing a fresh and dynamic approach to the industry.