Many severe storms have caused havoc on houses, towns, and the market for housing throughout the United States over the years. A storm could cause significant damage to your home when you don’t know what you need to do if a storm has hit you.
Staying safe is the most critical step during an event like a hurricane. When the rain and winds have stopped, it’s time to evaluate the damage and protect your home. When a storm ravages your home, it might seem like the whole world is in turmoil. If you’ve been affected by an event, you might feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next.
After a storm, what do you do?
Following a storm, broken glass, debris, tree damage, power outages, and floods in rooms are usually more devastating than the storm itself. If no prompt action is done to stop these risks, you and your family might be put in harm’s way. Following a storm, knowing what you should do in the next step is crucial.
1. Be Alert
When a storm is approaching, you should take precautions to ensure your safety and that of the people around you. Keep an eye on any risks associated with storms, including nails or screws exposed during clean-up efforts in your area.
The force of the wind can leave damaged roofing materials, so avoid these. Also, several damaged power lines can pose a danger if any are alive. Make sure to stop using natural gas as soon as possible if you smell anything that resembles those natural gas.
2. Assess Damage
To receive the full reimbursement from your insurance provider, First, you need to determine the extent of destruction to your home. When walking about, take care not to cause further harm to yourself or others but also ensure that nobody else is injured.
Don’t forget to take photos of the internal and exterior aspects. If there is a claim, it will ensure that the insurance provider will cover the entire amount. When you walk through your house, Be aware of any structural damages.
A restoration company can help you assess and fix storm damages. You can check on this page to understand more about the services you can avail from a reputable restoration company.
3. Contact Insurance Agent
Once the storm’s damage has been documented, call your insurance agent immediately and keep in touch with them until your claim is resolved. Their knowledge of the policy’s exclusions and inclusions will help with this issue. Be sure to describe the house’s damage clearly, and be sure to include photos and other documents. Once that’s done, an adjuster from your insurance company will arrive to assess the damage.
4. Stop Further Damage
Now is the moment to act now and prevent the possibility of further harm. Get a tarp or plywood to cover damaged windows or an unsound roof to stop water and wind from getting inside your home. If you happen to stay in Shrevport, consider calling a damage restoration in Shreveport after you’ve done all possible to minimize further harm. With their expertise, they can aid you in restoring your home to its pre-storm condition.
5. Keep All Necessary Documents
If you must file an insurance claim, keep thorough documentation of the incident. For example, save copies of your invoices for purchasing supplies and labor to ensure you can be fully compensated. You should be aware of what’s included in the homeowner’s coverage.
It’s crucial to consult your insurance agent if you reside in a region that has a high risk of severe weather like the possibility of a tornado or hurricane. Your homeowner’s insurance may include an additional insurance policy that can help you in a storm damaging your house.
