Typhoons are a part of life in the Philippines, but recent storms like Typhoon Tino and Typhoon Uwan both packing Signal No. 4 to 5 winds remind us how quickly things can turn destructive. Roofs torn off, power lines down, flooding in low-lying areas the damage isn’t always visible right away, but it can seriously affect a home’s structure and safety.

If your area was hit by either of these storms, now’s the time to act fast. Even if your house looks fine, hidden cracks, loose beams, or water-logged walls can develop into bigger and costlier issues later. Here’s a full post-typhoon home inspection checklist tailored for Filipino homeowners and why hiring a professional home builder or architect for assessment could save you thousands.

Step-by-Step Post-Typhoon Inspection Checklist

1. Check Your Roof and Exterior Walls

Start with the most exposed parts. Look for:

• Missing or dislodged roofing sheets or tiles.

• Rusted or loose gutters.

• Cracked walls or chipped paint (signs of water seepage).

• Leaks near ceiling corners or eaves.

• Broken windows or misaligned frames.

Tip: Don’t climb on the roof right away. Wait until the winds fully subside, and if unsure, let professionals do it especially for high or steep roofs.

2. Inspect the Foundation and Structural Frame

Signal No. 4–5 winds like those from Typhoon Tino or Uwan can shift soil and stress the base of your home.
Check for:

• Uneven floors or new cracks on concrete walls.

• Water pooling near foundations.

• Erosion on the sides of your property, especially for hillside homes.

• Doors or windows that suddenly don’t close properly this could mean structural shifting.

If anything looks off, don’t ignore it these signs often indicate deeper damage.

3. Check Inside for Water Damage

Flooding and roof leaks can quietly wreck interiors.

• Look for discolored ceilings, damp spots, or peeling paint.

• Feel the walls for soft or bulging areas.

• Inspect floor tiles or wood planks that have lifted or warped.

• Sniff for musty odors an early sign of mold growth.

If floodwater entered your home, disinfect all affected areas. Contaminated water can carry bacteria and weaken materials over time.

4. Electrical and Plumbing Safety

Never switch the power on until you’re sure everything is dry.

• Look for frayed or exposed wires.

• Check outlets near the floor for water damage.

• If your home was submerged, call a licensed electrician for a full system inspection.

Also, make sure your plumbing isn’t leaking. Burst pipes or clogged drains often follow flooding.

5. Yard and Surroundings

• Clear fallen branches, metal sheets, or debris.

• Check perimeter fences and gates for leaning or loose sections.

• Inspect your water tank, satellite dish, or solar panels these are often damaged in high winds.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Home Builder or Architect After a Typhoon

After extreme storms like Typhoon Tino or Typhoon Uwan, a professional inspection isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Here’s why:

1. Hidden Structural Damage Is Hard to Spot

Even if your home looks fine, high winds can cause hairline cracks in beams, slabs, and foundations. A professional home builder uses tools and technical knowledge to detect stress points you might miss preventing costly collapse or repair later.

2. They Know the Local Building Codes and Storm Standards

Professionals understand the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP) and can check if your house still meets safety standards after a Category 4 or 5 typhoon. If you’re planning repairs, they’ll make sure materials and methods meet code to resist future storms.

3. Safety Comes First

Climbing roofs, testing electrical systems, and inspecting structural cracks are risky jobs. Builders and engineers have the right equipment and training to do this safely, so you don’t put yourself or your family in danger.

4. Professional Reports Help with Insurance and Aid Claims

Many insurance companies require an official damage assessment report from a certified builder or engineer. Hiring one not only ensures accurate documentation but also helps speed up claims or government assistance.

5. They Can Recommend Long-Term Fixes

Beyond patch-up repairs, architects and builders can suggest design improvements like reinforced roofing, flood-resistant materials, or better drainage systems, so your home can stand stronger against the next typhoon season.

What to Do If Damage Is Found

• Minor: Patch roof leaks or repaint damp walls, but still consult a pro for confirmation.

• Moderate: Cracked beams, warped flooring, or sagging roofs need immediate inspection.

• Severe: Evacuate if necessary. Don’t risk staying inside until a professional confirms safety.

Build Back Better

Every typhoon season teaches a lesson. Whether you’re in Bacolod, Iloilo, Dumaguete, or Negros, working with a trusted home builder after storms ensures your home remains safe, strong, and storm-ready.

Investing in professional assessment now can prevent total rebuilds later and that’s a smart move for any Filipino homeowner.