Natural disasters can cause structural damage, water damage, and other issues that can compromise the safety and stability of your home.
In the aftermath of a storm, it is important to take steps to minimize the impact of storm damage. You need to follow the proper safety procedures, document the damage, and work with your insurance company and contractor to determine replacement cost and repair your home.
Ensure Safety
There may be danger due to hazardous conditions from a storm, like power lines, gas leaks, or structural damage. If this is the case, evacuate the area and contact emergency services. You may need to shut off any utilities connected such as water and gas.
Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of the damage as soon as possible. This documentation will be important for insurance claims and to provide evidence to contractors who will repair the damage.
Storm damage can cause extensive damage to your home, including your roof, windows, and siding. This damage can be costly to repair and may require you to temporarily relocate while repairs are being made.
Signs of structural damage are not always obvious. Damage caused by wind can be hidden, affecting walls and the foundation. These structural problems can get worse, causing more severe secondary damage if left undetected and even destroy your home.
Mitigate Further Damage
Do what you can to prevent further damage to your property. You may need to place a tarp over a damaged roof or board up broken windows. It is your responsibility to mitigate further damages or your insurance company may not approve your claim.
Check for Loss of Use Coverage
Storm damage can disrupt your daily life by forcing you to relocate temporarily and causing delays in repairs. This can be especially challenging if you have children or other family members who rely on you for support.
If you do have to seek temporary housing, make sure and read your insurance policy carefully regarding loss of use coverage. This type of insurance covers any costs for a hotel stay, rent, additional food expenses, moving, and storage. Make sure to keep all receipts so that you have good documentation for your insurance company.
Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster
When filing an insurance claim, the insurance company will send someone to assess the costs of repairs. Remember that this adjuster works for the insurance company. You may choose to hire a public adjuster that works for you. Their fee is usually a certain percentage of the claim money you receive.
It may be worth the fee since they look for all damage and represent you in communicating to the insurance company. They will also work to make sure that the insurance is fairly compensating you. They will oversee the process and enlist the help of experts to make sure no damage is overlooked.
Hire a Contractor
After damage is discovered, consider contacting a contractor before your insurance company. Contractors frequently work with insurance companies and may be able to help guide you through the claims process. You can find out more information about on our blog: Red Flags When Looking For a Contractor.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your homeowner insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Avoid giving any details of the claim. You do not know what underlying damage there may be. There will be obvious damage, but there may also be hidden damages.
Stay Organized
Keep all paperwork, receipts, and communication related to the damage and repairs in one place. This will make the insurance claim process smoother and help you keep track of expenses.
By following these steps, you can ensure that storm damage restoration is performed quickly and efficiently. Here at Bishop Builders, we understand the stress and disruption that home storm damage can cause.
Our experienced team of contractors is here to help you get back on your feet as quickly and efficiently as possible. We will also work closely with your insurance company to ensure that the claims process is smooth and stress-free.
With our dedication to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, you can trust that your home is in good hands. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help with your home storm damage repairs.