Storm damage can be an extremely stressful experience, but understanding how to manage storm damage effectively can make the experience less overwhelming.
Be ready for an insurance adjuster to inspect your home and property, document all damages that occur and keep all receipts.
Before the next storm hits, remove projectiles like lawn furniture, umbrellas and dead tree limbs from your property to reduce further damages and the likelihood of an insurance claim. Doing this will also help save on insurance premiums!
Roof Repair
After a storm has passed, it is essential to assess any damage. This includes an assessment of any roof damages. Getting your roof repaired as quickly as possible is imperative as even small amounts of moisture can lead to major complications down the line, including mold growth or underlayment rotting causing mold growth or even worse problems such as leakage and mold growth.
When your roof needs repairs, hiring reliable roofing contractors with years of experience and worker’s compensation and liability insurance for employees will protect against unexpected problems during the replacement process. A reputable company like Mona Roofing will be happy to provide proof of these licensing requirements. In addition, an established company should offer warranties against their workmanship.
One of the best ways to locate roofing contractors is to seek referrals from friends and family. Their honest opinions can provide invaluable guidance when searching for roofing services. If none are available, consider searching online reviews or home improvement websites such as Angie’s List as alternative resources.
Before hiring a roofer, always obtain multiple bids and compare prices carefully before selecting one. Don’t settle for just the lowest bid because this could lead you to scam artists that will only cause more issues in the long run. Also ask around locally or your homeowner’s association for referrals so that you find someone reliable who knows your neighborhood well.
Contacting prospective roofing contractors about their necessary permits for your project should also be top of mind. If they suggest forgoing permits to save time or money, that should be a clear signal that another roofing company might be better.
Prior to beginning work, have everything covered in writing. Be sure your contract includes safety procedures, cleanup methods, and dumpster or truck usage for trash collection with a thick plywood underside to prevent damaging driveway or lawn surface areas.
The first step in the repair process will be a detailed roof inspection. After your roof inspection, your contractor will provide an estimated repair estimate. Be sure to obtain several bids from contractors you trust so you can easily compare work and materials used; additionally it would be beneficial for you if they have experience working with insurance companies as this can aid during claim processing.
After gathering repair estimates, it’s time to file an insurance claim. A repair company that specializes in storm damage may ask you to sign an “insurance commit form” giving them permission to talk directly with your adjuster and giving them priority on the job.
Water Damage
As soon as storm damage strikes, water restoration professionals should be hired immediately. Otherwise, costs will skyrocket over time while many insurance providers prioritize claims less and less as time progresses.
Once an experienced restoration company is contacted, they can assist in filing an insurance claim that covers the necessary restoration work – helping ensure you do not pay out-of-pocket for services needed during restoration.
Check for storm damage to windows, doors and roofs after storms such as cracks, holes, broken panes or dented frames. Inspect the outside of your house for downed power lines or other potentially hazardous items that might require repair work.
If you come across any hazardous materials, take caution not to touch them. Assume all standing water within structures may contain toxic elements; water sources can range from Category 1 up to 3; the most harmful of which would include sewer or sea water.
Mold Removal
If mold spores have appeared after a storm, it is vital to have them tested and professionally cleaned by specialists. Any attempts at self-cleaning could cause the mold spores to spread throughout your property and lead to additional health concerns. For safety’s sake it would also be prudent to switch off HVAC until an inspector can locate the source of the mold. Leaving fans running would spread mold spores throughout your property increasing both damage as well as cost of cleanup in equal measures.
Mold removal requires a rigorous cleaning and dehumidification process, often returning after initial clean-up due to remaining moisture in the property. Professionals use industrial dehumidifiers and air purifying equipment to eliminate mold spores while upholding indoor air quality guidelines.
Some porous materials must be completely removed and discarded, including carpet, fabric and furniture. Other items, like wood and real plaster can be cleaned thoroughly by professionals using special techniques and equipment.
Insurance Claims
As soon as storm damage strikes, it is vitally important to document every element that was damaged. This will aid you when filing an insurance claim. Hiring a contractor also gives an expert perspective as they will inspect both roof and gutter damage as well as provide an estimate for repairs.
Reputable contractors work directly with your insurance provider to settle an insurance claim, ensuring that repairs to your home are properly made while only your deductible remains due. You can click this link: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/does-home-insurance-cover-roof/ to find out more about insurance coverage.
They should also be licensed and insured. However, be wary of contractors that ask for payment upfront as this could indicate they’re not certified with your provider and won’t work together effectively to settle it.
If you have insurance, it is crucial that a claim be filed immediately following a storm as insurers prioritize claims according to damage amount. Furthermore, it would be wise to contact a professional assessment service prior to cleaning up as your insurer will want a visual of what has been damaged firsthand.
If the insurance company denies your claim, you have the right to appeal.
Dealing with damage from storms can be a stressful time. Working with qualified professionals can help make the situation less stressful and ensure a successful outcome.
