Emergency General Contractor Services Houston: 24/7 Storm & Water Damage Repair

When disaster strikes your Houston home—whether it's hurricane damage, severe storms, water intrusion, or fire—you need an emergency general contractor who responds immediately. Tell Projects provides 24/7 emergency services throughout Houston and surrounding areas with rapid response times, comprehensive damage mitigation, and expert insurance claims assistance.

As a licensed general contractor specializing in emergency response and disaster restoration, we understand that every minute counts when your property is damaged. Our emergency crews are on call around the clock, ready to protect your home, prevent further damage, and begin the restoration process immediately.

What Qualifies as an Emergency Requiring a General Contractor?

Not every home repair constitutes an emergency, but certain situations demand immediate professional response to prevent catastrophic damage, protect safety, or make your property habitable:

Life-Safety Emergencies (Immediate Response Required)

• Structural damage threatening collapse (walls, roof, foundation)
• Gas leaks from damaged gas lines
• Electrical hazards (exposed wiring, water contact with electrical systems)
• Fire damage with ongoing smoke/chemical exposure
• Sewage backups creating health hazards
• Fallen trees on occupied structures

Property Protection Emergencies (Response Within Hours)

• Active water intrusion (burst pipes, roof leaks, flooding)
• Storm/hurricane damage with breached roof or siding
• Broken windows/doors exposing interior to weather
• HVAC failures during extreme weather (heat waves, freezes)
• Major plumbing failures flooding interior spaces
• Vandalism or break-ins requiring immediate security

Urgent Repairs (Response Within 24-48 Hours)

• Minor roof leaks during rainstorms
• Foundation cracks worsening with rain
• Mold growth from recent water damage
• Partial structural damage not immediately life-threatening
• Pest intrusions through storm damage openings

If you're unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, call Tell Projects at (832) 591-7991 for a free phone assessment. Our emergency coordinators can evaluate your situation and dispatch crews if needed.

Houston's Most Common Emergency Contractor Situations

Houston's unique climate and weather patterns create specific emergency scenarios requiring specialized contractor response:

1. Hurricane and Tropical Storm Damage

Houston faces hurricane threats annually from June through November, with major events like Hurricane Harvey (2017), Hurricane Ike (2008), and Hurricane Beryl (2024) causing billions in damage. Hurricane-force winds and torrential rains create multiple emergency needs:

Common Hurricane Damage Requiring Emergency Response:

• Roof damage: Shingle blow-off, roof membrane tears, structural damage
• Window/door failures: Broken glass, blown-in doors, shattered windows
• Siding damage: Vinyl siding torn off, brick veneer failure
• Flooding: Storm surge, flash flooding, prolonged rain accumulation
• Fallen trees: Trees on roofs, through walls, blocking entry
• Power disruption: Extended outages requiring generator setup

Hurricane Emergency Response Timeline:

Houston Hurricane Insurance Claims: Most homeowners policies include separate hurricane deductibles (typically 1-5% of dwelling coverage) that apply when the National Weather Service declares a hurricane watch or warning. Tell Projects documents all emergency services with detailed photo evidence and itemized invoices to streamline your insurance claim process.

2. Severe Storm and Hail Damage

Houston experiences frequent severe thunderstorms with high winds (50-80 mph), large hail, and intense rainfall throughout spring and summer months. These storms cause rapid-onset damage requiring immediate response:

Typical Storm Damage Scenarios:

• Hail damage: Roof shingle granule loss, punctures, guttering dents
• Wind damage: Blown-off shingles, damaged soffits, siding tears
• Tree damage: Fallen limbs, uprooted trees striking structures
• Flash flooding: Rapid water accumulation overwhelming drainage
• Lightning strikes: Electrical system damage, fire ignition

3. Water Damage Emergencies

Water damage is the #1 emergency call for Houston contractors, with causes ranging from plumbing failures to weather events. Houston's high humidity accelerates secondary damage (mold growth) making rapid response critical:

Common Water Emergency Sources:

• Burst pipes: Freeze damage (rare but catastrophic), age deterioration, pressure surges
• Water heater failures: Tank ruptures releasing 40-80 gallons instantly
• Washing machine hose failures: High-pressure water flooding laundry areas
• Slab leak detection: Foundation leaks causing structural undermining
• Roof leaks: Storm damage, age deterioration, flashing failures
• HVAC condensate overflow: Drain line clogs causing water damage

Water Damage Response Time Criticality:

Tell Projects Water Damage Emergency Response: We arrive with industrial-grade water extraction equipment, commercial dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture detection technology to halt damage progression within the critical first 24-hour window.

4. Fire and Smoke Damage

Fire emergencies require specialized contractor response addressing both structural damage and smoke/soot contamination. Even small fires create extensive smoke damage requiring professional remediation:

Fire Damage Emergency Services:

• Emergency board-up of fire-damaged openings (windows, doors, roof breaches)
• Structural stabilization of fire-weakened walls, roof trusses, floors
• Smoke and soot remediation throughout affected and adjacent areas
• Water damage mitigation from firefighting efforts
• Debris removal and site cleanup for safety access
• Odor neutralization using specialized equipment and treatments
• Insurance documentation coordinating with fire marshals and adjusters

24/7 Emergency General Contractor Services in Houston

Tell Projects provides comprehensive emergency services addressing all aspects of property damage, from immediate mitigation through complete restoration:

Emergency Roof Tarping and Leak Repair

When your roof is compromised, water intrusion causes exponentially increasing damage every hour. Our emergency roof services protect your property immediately:

Emergency Roof Services Include:

• Heavy-duty roof tarping: Industrial-grade tarps secured with battens and fasteners
• Leak source identification: Thermal imaging and moisture detection
• Temporary patching: Emergency repairs to stop active water entry
• Interior water extraction: Removing water that already entered
• Attic inspection: Assessing insulation damage, structural integrity
• Gutter and downspout repairs: Ensuring proper drainage

Emergency Roof Tarping Cost: $500-$2,500 depending on roof size, pitch complexity, and accessibility. Insurance typically covers emergency tarping as necessary mitigation to prevent further damage.

Emergency Board-Up Services

Broken windows, damaged doors, and structural breaches expose your home to weather, theft, and wildlife intrusion. Our board-up crews secure your property within hours:

Board-Up Services Include:

• Window board-up: 3/4" plywood secured over broken windows
• Door reinforcement: Temporary doors or heavy-duty board-up
• Structural breach coverage: Large openings from fallen trees, vehicle impacts
• Security assessment: Identifying all vulnerable entry points
• Weatherproofing: Tarps and sealing to prevent weather intrusion

Board-Up Pricing: $300-$1,500 per opening (window/door) depending on size and materials required. Larger structural breaches quoted individually based on scope.

Emergency Water Extraction and Drying

Active water damage requires immediate extraction and professional drying to prevent mold growth, structural deterioration, and permanent damage:

Water Damage Emergency Response:

• Water source identification and shutoff: Stopping ongoing water entry
• Emergency water extraction: Industrial pumps and vacuums removing standing water
• Salvage and content protection: Moving furniture, electronics, valuables
• Commercial dehumidification: Industrial dehumidifiers running 24/7
• Air mover placement: High-velocity fans promoting rapid drying
• Moisture monitoring: Daily readings tracking drying progress
• Antimicrobial treatment: Preventing mold growth during drying

Water Extraction Cost: $1,000-$5,000+ depending on affected area, water category (clean/gray/black), and equipment needed. Most homeowners insurance covers water damage from sudden accidents (burst pipes, appliance failures) but not gradual leaks or flood events requiring separate flood insurance.

Emergency Structural Stabilization

When structural integrity is compromised by storm damage, fire, flooding, or foundation issues, immediate stabilization prevents catastrophic failure:

Structural Emergency Services:

• Temporary shoring: Supporting damaged walls, roof structures, floors
• Structural assessment: Licensed engineer evaluation of damage severity
• Load redistribution: Transferring weight from damaged to intact structures
• Foundation stabilization: Emergency piers or shoring for foundation failures
• Roof truss support: Bracing damaged trusses pending replacement

Emergency Debris Removal and Site Cleanup

Storm debris creates safety hazards and prevents access for repairs. Tell Projects provides rapid debris removal to clear pathways and prepare for restoration:

Debris Removal Services:

• Tree removal from structures: Careful extraction preventing further damage
• Roofing material removal: Clearing blown-off shingles, flashing, gutters
• Damaged siding and trim removal: Clearing hazardous hanging materials
• Broken glass cleanup: Safe removal and disposal of window/door glass
• Interior water-damaged materials: Removing wet drywall, insulation, flooring
• Dumpster placement and haul-off: Providing debris containers and disposal

Houston Emergency General Contractor Response Times

When disaster strikes, response time directly impacts total damage and restoration costs. Tell Projects maintains emergency crews on call 24/7/365 with the following response targets:

During Major Storm Events: When hurricanes or severe storms impact Houston, emergency contractors face overwhelming demand. Tell Projects prioritizes responses based on life-safety threats, active water intrusion, and structural stability issues. Pre-storm relationships with existing clients receive priority scheduling.

Working with Insurance on Emergency Services

Understanding insurance coverage for emergency services helps homeowners make informed decisions and maximize claim recovery:

What Insurance Typically Covers

Most homeowners policies cover emergency mitigation services necessary to prevent further damage:

• Emergency tarping and board-up (covered as "reasonable and necessary" repairs)
• Water extraction and drying (covered under water damage provisions)
• Debris removal (typically limited to $500-$1,000 without additional coverage)
• Temporary repairs (covered to prevent additional damage)
• Additional living expenses (if home uninhabitable, covers hotels/meals)

What Insurance May Not Cover

• Flood damage requires separate flood insurance through NFIP or private carriers
• Gradual deterioration or maintenance issues (roof leaks from age/neglect)
• Hurricane deductibles apply separately (1-5% of dwelling coverage)
• Code upgrade requirements (unless you have building code coverage)
• Cosmetic damage not affecting structural integrity or weather protection

How Tell Projects Helps with Insurance Claims

As experienced emergency contractors working with insurers daily, we streamline the claims process:

• Detailed photo documentation of all damage before and during repairs
• Itemized emergency service invoices clearly showing mitigation necessity
• Direct communication with adjusters explaining emergency actions taken
• Estimates in Xactimate format matching insurance industry standards
• Scope of damage reports documenting all affected areas and systems
• Progress documentation showing mitigation prevented further damage

Insurance Claim Timeline After Emergency:

1. Immediate (Day 1): Contact your insurance company reporting the emergency and actions taken
2. 24-48 Hours: Insurance adjuster assigned and initial contact made
3. 3-7 Days: Adjuster inspects property, reviews emergency services provided
4. 7-14 Days: Initial claim settlement for emergency services (often issued quickly)
5. 2-4 Weeks: Full claim assessment and settlement for complete restoration

Hurricane Preparedness and Pre-Storm Services

Houston homeowners can minimize emergency damage by preparing before storms arrive. Tell Projects offers pre-storm preparation services:

Pre-Hurricane Preparation Services

• Window and door board-up (24-48 hours before landfall)
• Roof inspection and minor repairs (addressing vulnerabilities)
• Gutter cleaning and securing (preventing water backup)
• Tree trimming near structures (removing hazardous limbs)
• Generator installation and testing (ensuring backup power)
• Securing loose outdoor items (patio furniture, equipment)
• Drainage system checks (ensuring proper water flow)

Post-Storm Safety Assessment

After storms pass, DO NOT enter damaged properties without professional assessment. Tell Projects provides post-storm safety inspections checking:

• Structural integrity (walls, roof, foundation)
• Electrical hazards (wet outlets, damaged wiring)
• Gas leaks (smell of gas, damaged gas lines)
• Water contamination (sewage backup, floodwater)
• Mold growth (especially in hidden areas)
• Pest intrusion (snakes, rodents entering through damage)

Common Houston Emergency Scenarios and Solutions

Scenario 1: Hurricane Damages Roof at 2 AM

Situation: Hurricane-force winds tear off shingles and damage roof deck. Rain pours into attic and ceiling.

Tell Projects Emergency Response:

1. Hour 1: Dispatch emergency crew with heavy-duty tarps and equipment
2. Hour 2-3: Assess damage, deploy tarps secured with battens and fasteners
3. Hour 4-6: Extract water from attic, place dehumidifiers, assess ceiling damage
4. Hour 6-12: Interior water extraction, fan placement, antimicrobial treatment
5. Day 2-3: Monitor moisture levels, adjust drying equipment, begin insurance documentation
6. Week 1-2: Coordinate with roofer for permanent repairs, complete interior restoration

Cost Range: Emergency tarping $1,500, Water extraction/drying $3,000, Interior repairs $5,000-$15,000 (Total: $9,500-$19,500). Typically covered by homeowners insurance minus deductible.

Scenario 2: Burst Pipe Floods Home on Christmas Eve

Situation: Frozen pipe bursts releasing hundreds of gallons into living areas. Family out of town returns to flooded home.

Tell Projects Emergency Response:

1. Hour 1: Emergency crew arrives, shuts off main water supply
2. Hour 2-4: Extract standing water with industrial equipment
3. Hour 4-8: Remove wet flooring/carpet, extract water from walls
4. Day 1-3: Deploy dehumidifiers and air movers, monitor moisture daily
5. Day 3-7: Antimicrobial treatment, assess drywall/insulation damage
6. Week 2-4: Replace damaged materials, restore finishes, final inspection

Cost Range: Water extraction $2,000, Drying equipment (5 days) $1,500, Material replacement $8,000-$20,000 (Total: $11,500-$23,500). Covered by homeowners insurance (sudden pipe burst) minus deductible.

Scenario 3: Tree Falls Through Roof During Thunderstorm

Situation: Large oak tree crashes through roof creating 15-foot opening. Active rain entering home.

Tell Projects Emergency Response:

1. Hour 1-2: Emergency crew assesses structural safety, cordons off dangerous areas
2. Hour 2-6: Tree service removes tree from structure (coordinated by Tell Projects)
3. Hour 6-12: Heavy-duty tarping of large opening, temporary structural support installed
4. Day 1-2: Water extraction, drying equipment deployment, debris removal
5. Day 3-7: Structural engineer assessment, insurance adjuster inspection
6. Week 2-8: Roof structural repairs, sheathing replacement, shingle installation
7. Week 6-12: Interior ceiling repairs, painting, final restoration

Cost Range: Tree removal $2,500-$5,000, Emergency tarping/stabilization $3,000, Structural roof repairs $15,000-$35,000, Interior restoration $8,000-$15,000 (Total: $28,500-$58,000). Typically covered by homeowners insurance for sudden tree falls.

Why Choose Tell Projects for Emergency Services in Houston?

When emergencies strike, homeowners need contractors who respond immediately, work professionally, and deliver quality results under pressure. Tell Projects has built Houston's trust as emergency response specialists:

✅ True 24/7/365 Emergency Response

Many contractors claim "24/7 service" but forward calls to voicemail after hours. Tell Projects maintains dedicated emergency dispatch with crews on standby 24 hours daily, 365 days yearly including holidays. Call (832) 591-7991 anytime for immediate response.

✅ Rapid Response Times (1-4 Hours)

We maintain strategically located crews throughout Greater Houston enabling response within 1-4 hours for true emergencies. Our emergency vehicles carry comprehensive equipment enabling immediate mitigation upon arrival.

✅ Licensed, Insured, and Experienced

Texas Registered General Contractor with comprehensive liability and workers compensation insurance protecting homeowners from liability during emergency work. Our crews have extensive experience with Houston's unique emergency scenarios from hurricanes to flooding.

✅ Insurance Claims Expertise

We work with insurance adjusters daily and understand claims processes thoroughly. Tell Projects provides detailed documentation, industry-standard estimates, and direct adjuster communication streamlining your claim and maximizing recovery.

✅ Full-Service Restoration Capabilities

Unlike companies handling only emergency mitigation then referring restoration elsewhere, Tell Projects provides complete emergency response through final restoration. One contractor, one point of contact, seamless project completion.

✅ Houston-Based and Houston-Focused

As a Houston-based contractor, we understand local building codes, insurance requirements, weather patterns, and permit processes. We're invested in our community and committed to helping Houston homeowners recover from disasters.

✅ Transparent Emergency Service Pricing

We provide upfront estimates for emergency services before beginning work. No hidden fees, no price gouging during disasters, no surprise charges. Our emergency service rates are fair and competitive while maintaining rapid response capabilities.

Emergency Preparedness Tips for Houston Homeowners

While you can't prevent emergencies, preparation reduces damage severity and speeds recovery:

Create Emergency Contractor Contacts List

• General contractor (Tell Projects: 832-591-7991)
• Insurance agent (company and adjuster phone numbers)
• Utility companies (gas, electric, water emergency numbers)
• City services (building inspections, permitting)

Document Your Property

• Photo inventory of all rooms, contents, finishes
• Video walkthrough showing condition before damage
• Receipts and documentation for major improvements
• Serial numbers of appliances, electronics, HVAC equipment

Know Your Insurance Policy

• Coverage limits for dwelling, contents, additional living expenses
• Deductible amounts (standard and hurricane deductibles)
• Exclusions (flood, earthquake, gradual damage)
• Claims filing deadlines (usually 1 year but verify your policy)

Prepare Emergency Supplies

• Tarps and plastic sheeting for emergency coverage
• Battery-powered flashlights and radios
• Water and non-perishable food (3-7 days supply)
• First aid kit and medications
• Important documents in waterproof container
• Cash (ATMs may not work during power outages)

Frequently Asked Questions: Emergency General Contractor Services Houston

What qualifies as an emergency requiring a general contractor in Houston?

Emergencies requiring immediate general contractor response include: storm/hurricane damage with roof breaches or structural damage, active water intrusion from burst pipes or flooding, fire damage requiring board-up and structural stabilization, fallen trees damaging structures, electrical hazards from storm damage, and gas leaks from structural damage. Any situation threatening safety, causing ongoing damage, or making property uninhabitable requires emergency response.

How quickly can an emergency general contractor respond in Houston?

Professional emergency general contractors in Houston typically respond within 1-4 hours for true emergencies. Tell Projects offers 24/7 emergency response with crews dispatched immediately upon contact. Response time depends on severity, location, and current weather conditions. During major storm events affecting multiple properties, priority goes to life-safety issues and active water intrusion.

Does insurance cover emergency general contractor services in Houston?

Most homeowners insurance policies cover emergency repairs necessary to prevent further damage (temporary repairs, tarping, board-up). However, coverage varies by policy and cause of damage. Hurricane deductibles (typically 1-5% of dwelling value) apply to wind/storm damage. Flood damage requires separate flood insurance. Emergency contractors should document all work with photos and detailed invoices for insurance claims. Tell Projects works directly with insurance adjusters and helps navigate the claims process.

What emergency services do general contractors provide in Houston?

Emergency general contractors in Houston provide: emergency roof tarping and leak repair, board-up services for broken windows/doors, water extraction and emergency drying, structural stabilization and temporary shoring, debris removal and site cleanup, emergency power/generator setup, tree removal from structures, emergency plumbing/electrical repairs, fire damage board-up and smoke remediation, and mold prevention treatments. Services are available 24/7/365.

How much do emergency general contractor services cost in Houston?

Emergency service costs in Houston vary by scope: Emergency roof tarping: $500-$2,500 (size/complexity dependent). Board-up services: $300-$1,500 per opening. Water extraction: $1,000-$5,000 (depends on affected area). Emergency structural repairs: $2,000-$10,000+. Many emergency contractors charge premium rates (1.5x-2x normal) for after-hours response but insurance typically covers emergency mitigation. Tell Projects provides upfront emergency service estimates and works with insurance for coverage.

Should I wait for insurance approval before calling an emergency contractor?

NO - Call emergency contractor immediately, then notify insurance. Most insurance policies require homeowners to take "reasonable steps to prevent further damage." Delaying emergency mitigation can result in denied claims for secondary damage (mold growth, additional water damage, vandalism through unsecured openings). Call Tell Projects first for emergency response, then contact your insurance company within 24 hours to report the claim and emergency actions taken.

What should I do immediately after discovering emergency damage?

Immediate Actions: (1) Ensure everyone's safety - evacuate if structural concerns exist. (2) If safe, shut off water/electricity to damaged areas. (3) Call Tell Projects emergency hotline: (832) 591-7991. (4) Take photos/videos of damage before touching anything. (5) Move valuables away from damaged areas if safe to do so. (6) Contact insurance company to report claim. (7) Do NOT make permanent repairs before insurance adjuster inspection.

Does Tell Projects offer financing for emergency repairs?

Yes, Tell Projects offers financing options for emergency repairs through third-party lenders. Many homeowners use emergency repair financing to cover insurance deductibles or portions not covered by insurance. We also work with assignment of benefits where appropriate, allowing insurance proceeds to go directly toward repairs. Contact our office to discuss financing options for your specific emergency situation.

Can Tell Projects help if insurance denies my claim?

Yes, Tell Projects can assist with claim disputes. We provide detailed documentation, expert opinions, and additional evidence supporting your claim. If necessary, we can refer you to public adjusters or insurance attorneys specializing in claim disputes. Our comprehensive documentation (photos, moisture readings, cause-and-effect analysis) often helps overturn initial denials when presented properly.

Do you provide temporary housing assistance after emergencies?

While Tell Projects doesn't directly provide housing, we assist with additional living expense (ALE) claims through your insurance covering hotel stays, rental housing, meals, and other expenses while your home is uninhabitable. Most homeowners policies include ALE coverage (typically 20-30% of dwelling coverage). We expedite repairs to minimize displacement time and document the necessity of temporary housing for your insurance claim.

Contact Tell Projects for Emergency Services in Houston

When disaster strikes your Houston home, every minute counts. Tell Projects provides the rapid, professional emergency response Houston homeowners need to protect their properties and begin recovery immediately.

Serving Greater Houston Including: Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Pearland, Missouri City, Stafford, Bellaire, West University, Memorial, Spring, Cypress, Humble, Kingwood, Friendswood, League City, and all surrounding communities.

Tell Projects is a Texas-registered general contractor providing emergency response, disaster restoration, and comprehensive remodeling services throughout Greater Houston. We maintain 24/7 emergency dispatch, rapid response crews, and comprehensive insurance claims assistance to help Houston homeowners recover from hurricanes, storms, floods, fires, and other disasters.