Many severe storms have destroyed towns, houses, and the housing market across the United States over the years. Storms can cause significant harm to your home if you aren’t sure what to do when the storm hits.
Being safe is the most crucial aspect to consider amid a hurricane. When the rain and wind have ceased, you’ll need to assess the damage and secure your home. If a storm damages your home, it could appear as if your entire world is upside down. If an event has impacted you, you might be overwhelmed and not know what you should do next.
After a storm, what should you do?
Following a storm, broken glass, debris, tree damage, power outages, and flooding rooms can be more destructive than the storm itself. You and the family could be in danger if no immediate action is taken to prevent these effects. Following a storm, it is crucial to know what you should do following the storm.
1. Be Alert
If a storm is approaching, you should take precautions to safeguard yourself and the people around you. Be very aware of the possible hazards associated with storms, like nails that are exposed or screws that could be exposed during clean-up efforts within your community.
The force of the wind can leave roof components that have caved in So, avoid them. Additionally, several damaged power lines could be dangerous if any of them live. Do not use natural gas for a long time when you notice smells similar to those from natural gas.
2. Assess Damage
To receive fair compensation from your insurance company, you must first establish the severity of the storm’s destruction to your home. While walking around, be careful not to cause further harm to your family or friends but also to ensure that nobody else suffers damage.
Don’t forget to snap pictures of your exterior and interior aspects. If you have an insurance claim, it will ensure that the insurance company will cover the entire amount. When you walk through your house, be aware of any structural damages.
One of the damages stroms can do to your home is flooding. Flooding in turn can cause mold growth due to moisture. If you happen to have mold problems, you can avail of restoration services such as mold removal in Shreveport and prevent further damage to your home and to your health.
3. Contact Insurance Agent
If the damage from the storm has been documented, contact your insurance company immediately and stay in contact with them until the claim is resolved. Their knowledge of the exclusions of your insurance policy and inclusions can be beneficial in this instance. Be sure to write down the details of your home’s damages and attach photos and documents. Then an adjuster from your insurance company will be on hand to evaluate the damage.
4. Stop Further Damage
This is the time to act and stop further damage from occurring. Take advantage of a tarp or a piece of plywood to cover windows that have been damaged or an unsound roof to stop the water and wind from getting into your home. You may want to contact an expert restoration company in your area after you’ve done all possible to prevent further damage. With their experience, they can assist you in restoring your home to the condition it was before the storm.
To know more details about the services of a restoration company that you can avail, you can check their websites, or you can directly ask them through a call.
5. Keep All Necessary Documents
If you submit an insurance claim, keep detailed documents of the event. For instance, keep copies of your invoices for purchasing supplies and work so you can be paid fairly. Be sure to know what is included in your homeowner’s insurance.
It is crucial to speak with your insurance provider if you reside in an area that has the highest chance of experiencing severe weather conditions, like the possibility of a tornado or hurricane. The homeowner’s insurance might include additional protection to help you in a storm that damages your home.
