Has your home been damaged by a storm?
It’s not uncommon for people to worry about their homes and other properties during severe weather conditions. During a typical year, these events cause billions of dollars of property damage.
This is why it’s essential that you learn what to do when you notice storm damage to your property. There isn’t much time to act, and having the necessary homeowners insurance can prevent a long, drawn-out claim process.
Not sure what to do? Then keep reading to learn the steps you should take.
Assess the Damage
After a storm has caused damage, it is essential for homeowners to assess the damage. This is to order to determine the extent and the necessary repairs.
To assess the damage, begin by doing a thorough walk-through of the home. Watch for large items such as trees or branches that may have broken windows or caused a hole in the roof. Pay attention to exposed areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms that may have been impacted due to water leakage.
Check for cracks in the walls or ceilings and see if there is any structural damage from the storm. Document any damaged furniture or appliances. You can use these steps to assess the damage and create a plan of action to get the repairs done.
Document the Damage
It’s important to take pictures of the damage and list the things that have been lost or injured, along with the date. Photos should be taken from multiple angles, and the date and time they were taken should be written down.
Take note of things like broken windows, sagging roofs, water damage, and internal damage that you can see. Also, take pictures of trees that have been knocked over or trash that has been left behind.
Use all the ways you can to quickly keep track of the damage to your home, and make sure to note any things that could be dangerous. Keeping digital copies of the pictures and lists safe can also help. Keeping good records of storm damage can make it easier to file an insurance claim.
Secure Your Property
After storm damage, homeowners should immediately take steps to protect their property. Firstly, evaluate the property for safety and identify any hazardous conditions. For example, downed power lines, exposed wiring, or a gas leak should all be reported to the appropriate governmental agency.
Secondly, board up openings or windows. Cover roofs to prevent further property damage. This can be done with tarps or plastic sheets and prevent additional water from entering the property through cracks in the roof.
Lastly, be sure to take steps to safeguard any items or belongings that may have been affected by the storm. Storms can be very damaging to a home, and it is important to act quickly and diligently when it comes to safeguarding property and belongings.
Contact Your Insurance Company
After a storm, one of the first things you should do as a homeowner is to contact your hurricane insurance claims company. Contacting your insurance company will allow you to review your policy details. It will also help you determine the level of coverage you have.
When you call your insurance company, be prepared with all the information you have regarding the damage sustained. In addition, make sure to ask questions about what your policy covers and any additional steps you may need to take. This is important for anyone looking to restore their property back to its original condition.
Once your insurance company is aware of the damage, they can provide advice on the next steps as well as what resources are available to you for repair and replace any lost or damaged goods. Taking these initial steps right away will help ensure that you are in the best possible position to protect your home and possessions.
Hire a Professional Contractor
Homeowners who have experienced damage from a storm should take the initiative and hire a professional contractor. This is the best option for ensuring the safety of the home. A professional will have the knowledge and experience to assess the damage and provide the necessary repairs.
Before hiring, you should conduct research to ensure you select a trustworthy contractor with the required skills to provide a quality result. It is also advisable to gain a few quotes from local contractors. This is to ensure you receive a fair, competitive price.
The contractor should be registered and fully insured, so ensure you verify the contractor’s credentials before starting the job. Hiring a competent contractor is essential to mitigate the damage and restore your property to a safe and functional standard.
Track Your Expenses
This includes the cost of any emergency services, repairs, or replacements, as well as the cost of any new things bought. Keeping track of all your costs can help you make a stronger case for any insurance claims you might want to make. It will also help determine how much all the fixes and replacements will cost.
The best way to keep track of expenses is to make a spreadsheet that clearly shows all information, such as dates, who was paid, and the total cost of goods or services got. Photographs of the bills or papers should also be kept in case the insurance company wants more proof. Keep all storm damage records and track their costs as you repair your home damage.
Hire a Lawyer
When experiencing storm damage, take the necessary steps to ensure your best interests are represented. Hiring a lawyer is one of the best steps to ensure all paperwork, documents, and negotiations related to the damage are carried out correctly.
It is important to select a lawyer experienced in storm damage so they can properly assess the situation and give sound legal advice. The lawyer should also be familiar with local regulations to ensure all laws are followed.
Having knowledgeable legal counsel can also help protect you from potential scams or dishonest contractors. Most importantly, the lawyer can provide savings by negotiating efficient claims and settlements.
Things To Keep In Mind After a Storm Damage
After storm damage, homeowners should take immediate action to ensure the safety of their property and belongings. Inspecting and repairing damages as early as possible can help prevent further damage and unexpected costs.
Contacting a qualified inspector or contractor with experience in extreme weather remedies is essential to maximize your coverage and restore your life. Don’t wait. Take action today!
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