We can take the necessary precautions, such as boarding up windows or securing roof tiles, to prevent storm damage from happening, but nothing can completely prevent the devastating consequences of a storm. Whether it be a blizzard, hurricane, or tornado, it’s essential to understand the different types of damage that can happen to your home and when it is pertinent to seek professional help. In this blog, you’ll learn about the types of property damage that can result from storms, how to address these issues, and what to look for when contacting professionals.
Insurance
- Take photos of the damage and show them to your insurance agent as soon as possible.
- Homeowners insurance generally covers sudden, accidental damage.
- Let’s say there was a thunderstorm with high winds, and your roof suffered damage and is now leaking. Or, a tree falls onto your house and damages your roof. In these cases, your homeowners’ policy will typically cover the expenses.
- However, some homeowners’ policies may exclude windstorms and hail. That means your policy will not cover damage caused by those perils. To learn about any exclusions in your coverage, read your policy or talk with your agent.
- Also, flooding from natural disasters is generally not covered. For that, you will need separate flood insurance that you can get from The National Flood Insurance Program.
Getting Storm Damage Restoration Help for Your home
First of all, ensure your safety when checking for house damage. Watch out for fallen power lines, standing water that may be electrically charged, and wild animals.
Plumbing
- Check pipes inside and outside your home (i.e., irrigation systems).
- Close the water valves to toilets and sinks. If necessary, shut off all water in your home.
- If sewage backs up in the shower or under the toilet, your main sewer line might be clogged or broken. So, don’t make the problem worse by using other sinks or toilets. Call a professional for assistance.
Roofing
- Check your roof for missing shingles, but don’t risk life and limb by climbing onto it, even if only a few shingles are lost.
- Call a professional contractor. They have the skills, tools, and equipment to do the job safely and correctly following a storm damage restoration plan.
- Have them do a temporary “fix” to stop rain coming in until a permanent solution can be arranged.
Electrical
- Appliances exposed to water should be disconnected from their power source and serviced before use.
- Check for frayed wires and watch for sparks.
- If you have structural damage or see exposed wires, call an electrician. Keep the power off, as there’s the possibility of electrocution if you turn the power on yourself.
- Exterior breaker boxes are typically rain-tight but may not withstand a major storm. If you suspect water has infiltrated the box, call an electrician before turning on the power.
- Avoid metal fences. They may carry a charge from fallen or dangling utility wires.
- If a limb or tree has fallen on a power line near your house, turn off the power and call the utility company. Do not attempt to cut or clear fallen trees that are around power lines yourself!
When roof tiles come loose due to a severe storm, it poses a risk of water damage and mold growth on the underside.
Flooding
- For flooding problems, the best plan is to call a professional restoration company. They have the tools, qualified technicians, and knowledge to deal with flooding damage.
- If you decide to do it yourself, take precautions and wear boots, gloves, eye protection, and a respirator.
- Minimize the damage by removing standing water.
- Use a pump or squeegee the standing water.
- Use a vacuum only if it’s a true wet-dry vacuum.
- Remove absorbent items contaminated by floodwater (carpeting, carpet padding, furniture, drapes, etc.).
- Use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the area.
- Throw away all medicines, cosmetics, and foods, even canned goods, if submerged in floodwaters.
- Check for hidden moisture behind wallboards, and remove damaged portions to avoid mold.
- Clean floors and cabinets by washing them with detergent and disinfecting them.
- Remember, keep a photographic (or video) inventory of anything you must throw out.
Automobiles
- Floodwaters, tree limbs, or falling debris can easily damage vehicles.
- If an automobile is damaged, always notify your insurance agent.
- Cover broken windows if the car appears salvageable.
- List valuables in your car that have been lost or damaged.
Scam Alert
Unfortunately, storms and natural disasters bring out those who take advantage of the situation. But by following a few practical guidelines, you can help protect yourself from an additional loss:
- Try to work with local or known contractors for storm damage restoration.
- Don’t pay for work until it’s finished and you are satisfied. Pay with a check or a credit card.
- Beware of a contractor who tries to pressure you. If an offer is only good “now or never,” find someone else.
- Obtain written estimates for all proposed work that include proposed scopes and prices.
- Also, beware of charity scams that might use a storm to make their pleas for donations more plausible. Only give to organizations you know and recognize.
Don’t Face Storm Damage Alone. PuroClean of Northeast Houston – Beltway is Ready to Help!
Natural disasters can be a nightmare for homeowners. They put your family’s safety at risk and can cause significant damage to your property. While post-storm repairs and dealing with insurance companies may seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be that way. With the assistance of PuroClean of Northeast Houston – Beltway, you can restore your home to its pre-storm condition and avoid scams. Contact us today at (713) 250-8800 to receive top-tier restoration services from our certified technicians. We are equipped with specialized tools and techniques to restore your home efficiently and effectively, ensuring that you and your loved ones can enjoy the comfort of your home again in no time.
