Summer is here – time for cookouts, swimming in the pool and vacations! But it also means the arrival of severe, damaging storms. Before you are hit by a storm, be proactive. Review your Homeowner’s Insurance policy to make sure you are aware of what is covered, and document your home and personal property with photos and video.
Most homeowners fail to inspect their home after a storm, especially if there is no reason to suspect a problem, however that can be a costly mistake and a huge headache. To prevent bigger problems such as structural damage, mold and leaks, it is imperative to inspect all elements of the exterior of your home, starting with the roof.
Here is a checklist of what to look for on the outside:
Roof
- Loose or missing shingles or metal flashing
- Dented, torn or gouged shingles
- Holes from debris
- Tree limbs or other large debris on roof
Exterior Walls
- Dents or holes in siding
- Missing siding, soffit or fascia
- Cracks or splits
Windows and Doors
- Shattered or broken window panes
- Fogging between panes
- Damage to trim or frame
Damage can range from annoying to downright dangerous. If you find any damage, there are certain steps you need to take to secure your safety and make sure your home is restored to it’s prior condition. If the damage is severe, or there are dangerous conditions such as downed power lines or issues with a gas line or tree on a house, you will need to vacate the property immediately.
- Document the damage by taking pictures and video of both interior and exterior damage.
- Call in a contractor to inspect and tarp the damage so as to prevent further water intrusion. Do your homework and hire a local, reputable contractor, not a storm chaser who may not be properly licensed or insured for your area.
- Call your Homeowner’s Insurance Agent to file a claim for the damage. Your contractor may meet the adjuster at your home to assess the damage.
- Receive an estimate from the contractor for restoring your property.
- Communicate with your Insurance Agent regarding the Scope of Work for the repairs and what they are going to compensate you for. Most times homeowners have a deductible to meet.
- Coordinate with your contractor to have your property restored.
If you ever have the need for storm damage restoration, give Fichtner Services a call. We have experts on staff to help with the initial securing of your home, to the estimating, to the restoration process!
