A major weather event has caused severe damage to your home.
When something like this happens, it can be devastating. Suddenly, your house—the one that likely took you years to own—is destabilized and put at risk of collapsing. You might wonder, “How can I deal with this?”
The good news? There are some steps you can take to rectify the situation. So long as you know what to do and what direction to head in, the storm damage repair process can feel a lot less averse.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about what to do when a storm hits your home.
1. Identifying Types of Storm Damage
Identifying types of storm damage is essential for repairing property damage. Storm damage can include minor dents, broken windows, or tree limbs that have caused extensive property damage. Different types of damage need different approaches, so it is important to be aware of them.
Inspect your roof for cracked, curled, or missing shingles and replace any that have sustained damage. To save money, check around your home for any dents, dings, or cracks, such as light fixtures, windows, porches, and siding. Take the time to identify and prepare for storm damage to extend the life of your home and feel more secure.
2. Secure the Property After a Storm
Securing the property after a storm is an essential step in storm damage home repair. Clear all dangerous debris, such as broken tree branches and downed power lines, to ensure the safety of all surrounding areas. The homeowner should check for leaks in the roof to ensure the structure is safe.
Any external window shutters or glass windows should be covered with boards or plywood to prevent further damage. Homeowners must check for any door and window replacement as needed.
Damaged outdoor furniture and decorations should be collected, cleaned, and stored away. These tips will help ensure that the property is better protected.
3. Emergency Repairs After a Storm
After a storm, emergency repair work should begin immediately to prevent further damage to the home. Homeowners should also turn off power and water supplies to prevent other harm. Structural damage should be addressed by an experienced contractor, and temporary repairs may be necessary.
Homeowners should take pictures of the damage. Make sure to inspect any materials and supplies that will be used in storm damage repair to ensure they are of high quality and will last.
4. Homeowner Insurance and Coverage
Homeowners can take proactive steps to reduce the severity of future damage. Homeowner insurance policies cover storm damage. You can follow specific tips to ensure your claim is smoothly processed.
Before touching anything, take plenty of pictures of the damage and the area affected; this is evidence for your claim. Consult your insurance company about the damage and coverage, as well as steps to take toward the repair. The key is to act fast to cut the damage and avoid further destruction.
Once you have a plan in place, hire a contractor certified in storm damage and certified in construction that follows the building codes required by your insurance company. Make sure to get all the work authorized in writing before finalizing the process. Document everything, as it may be helpful while filing a claim.
5. Long-Term Restoration and Prevention Strategies
Long-term restoration and prevention strategies are essential when repairing storm damage for homeowners. Homeowners should seal their roofing, windows, damaged siding, and foundation to protect their homes from the elements.
Repairing any leaking issues and sealing the edges of windows and doors is also important. It is vital to keep gutters and downspouts free of debris and make sure nothing is blocking them. Removing dead, diseased, and overhanging tree limbs that can be a source of worry if they are above the home and trimming back tree limbs that are too close to the building can help prevent damage.
6. Choose the Right Restoration Company
Choosing the right storm damage restoration company is one of the most critical decisions for a homeowner. It is vital to research and compares multiple companies to determine which is best suited for the project.
Homeowners should ask potential companies questions such as what types of warranties they offer. How long have they been in business, and do they have any references from previous jobs? It is essential to check the credentials of possible companies to ensure they are licensed and insured for the job.
Once a company has been selected, be sure to discuss with them the expected timeline for the storm damage repair and any financial obligations that will occur. It is vital to develop a clear understanding of the company before beginning the repair process.
Be sure to keep all receipts and documentation throughout the project in case any discrepancies occur. With the right storm damage restoration company, homeowners can get their homes up and running again.
7. Establish a Budget for the Repair
When storm damage is repaired, homeowners must establish a budget and plan. Before the storm hits, be sure to do an audit of your property, making a note of any weak spots or areas of concern that may be susceptible to damage. Make sure to research the types and costs of materials you will need to complete the repairs.
This will help you have a more accurate estimate of the total cost of the repairs. When the storm has passed and you know the extent of the damage, it is vital to set a budget for how much you are willing to spend on repairs.
Stay within your means and get many repair estimates before signing with a contractor. Planning and budgeting for storm damage repairs will ensure that your home is safely restored to its previous state.
Consider These Storm Damage Repair Tips
Storm damage repair can be an overwhelming task, but it is crucial to start right away. It’s helpful to have an emergency plan and insurance coverage and know what resources are available.
Taking care of storm repairs will help ensure your home is sturdy and safe. Contact a trusted local contractor for help with any storm damage repairs you need.
Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blogs!
