How to report severe storm, wind, flooding and landslide damage 

After a series of atmospheric rivers caused widespread flooding across western Washington over the last two weeks, multiple counties have established how to report damage from the recent, devastating weather.

Pierce County

Pierce County has established a centralized webpage for damage reporting and recovery information.

“Recovering from a disaster is the most important part of any emergency response,” Pierce County stated. “Pierce County Emergency Management is dedicated to developing a comprehensive and coordinated system to facilitate the recovery of the county. Our goal is to ensure our communities and residents become more resilient to the impact from future emergencies and disasters.”

The site includes reporting options and recovery resources for residents, businesses, and public entities. Through this portal, residents can report damage suffered to homes and personal property. Residents affected can also learn about potential disaster assistance programs when losses are not covered by insurance.

Businesses can use the website to help assess economic impacts and support eligibility for state or federal recovery assistance.

“The purpose of these forms is to collect information on physical damages to residential structures from emergencies and major disasters,” Pierce County stated. “Voluntarily submitting this information is not part of a claims process. The information below will help you report damage to your home or property, and understand the resources that may become available to help you.”

Pierce County Emergency Management will use submitted information to better understand the scope of damage, support recovery planning, and advocate for additional resources.

King County

At this county government website, King County officials outline all of its resources to those affected by the floods.

For those reentering flooded or previously flooded property, county officials recommend turning off utilities before re-entering, not touching electrical equipment while in water, avoiding flood water as much as possible, and wearing an N95 mask, gloves, goggles, and protective gear when cleaning.

“Open windows and doors and pump out water after flood waters recede. Mold can grow within 24-48 hours after a flood,” King County stated. “Throw away any garden produce and food that has touched flood water. Food in sealed containers can be used if washed before opening. If you have a flooded septic system, don’t use your septic system during a flood. Disinfect your septic system after the flood. After flooding subsides, contact an on-site sewage system maintainer to check that the flooding did not damage your septic system.”

To report residential damage in King County, click here. For business damage, click here.

Levels of damage from flooding

Affected — waterline in the crawl space or unfinished basement. Damage suffered to attached structures, gutters, landscaping, or downed trees that do not block access, but no damage to essential living spaces or mechanical systems

Minor Damage — waterline below electrical outlets on the lowest floor with essential living space. Damage or contamination to a private well or septic system.

Major Damage — waterline at or above electrical outlets in essential living spaces. Waterline on the first floor, even if the basement is fully submerged.

Destroyed — Collapse of major structural components (foundation, walls, roof). Waterline at or above the ceiling of a living space. Only the foundation remains, or the home is at immediate risk of landslide, mudslide, or sinkhole.

“Note: Damage may be considered major even if water stays below electrical outlets when flooding lasted a long time, water contained sewage, fuel, or chemicals, or mechanical systems in the basement were damaged, “King County stated.

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