I Have Storm Damage, Now What?

If your home experiences storm damage, it can feel like your life is suddenly flipped upside down. You may feel overwhelmed with the destruction the storm has caused, and it can be difficult to know what to do first. But careful planning before a storm hits can help you navigate the challenging waters afterward, so you can return to normalcy as quickly as possible.

Here are 5 steps to take so you can be prepared if a natural disaster occurs:

Stay Alert After Storm Damage

Be careful and stay alert after a storm damages your home. The destruction and aftermath of a storm of any kind can pose serious injuries. Once you’re certain you and your household members are safe and unharmed, take the necessary precautions to avoid injuries. It’s common to come across hazards from storm damage like broken glass, exposed nails, or displaced screws, so keep an eye out. Be alert of unsecured piles of debris like caved-in roofing materials, standing water, and collapsed walls. It’s important to always assume that downed power lines are still energized and dangerous. After a storm damages your home, stay as far away from the power lines if possible and alert the police if you find downed power lines in your neighborhood. Additionally, if you smell gas, immediately shut off any gas valves to prevent further danger.

Assess the Storm Damage

After the storm has passed and before contacting your insurance company, assess the storm damage to your home. To ensure you’re fully compensated, take pictures of any interior and exterior damage to your home.

File a Claim

Call your insurance agent right away and file a claim if a storm damages your home.

Prevent Further Damage

You have to do everything you can to prevent further damage. I suggest doing as much research as necessary. You can learn about the kind of damage your home has and take the necessary steps to stop it from getting worse.

Stay Organized

One of the best ways to stay organized is by keeping receipts. You ensure your compliance when you keep your receipts. I log all my transactions with contractors as backup. Contractors take advantage of unassuming clients sometimes. You can prove what transpired by staying organized.

You follow these steps after a storm has damaged your home, you can better prepare for recovery. Insurance companies will also take advantage if you’re not careful. I have worked with professionals and I stand by these steps.

Find out more about important steps in the claims process by going here.

Learn more about what to do after you experience storm damage here.