When a storm damages your house, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But taking quick, smart action can make a big difference in your recovery.
This guide walks you through 5 essential steps after storm damage, from ensuring your safety to starting repairs.
By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle the situation, work with your insurance, and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Step 1: Safety First!
The storm has passed, and you’re looking at your damaged house. The very first thing you need to think about is staying safe. Your house might not be as sturdy as before the storm, so you must be extra careful.
First, take a good look around. Are there any significant cracks in the walls? Is the roof sagging? These could be signs that your house isn’t safe to be in right now. Also, watch for fallen power lines or the smell of gas. If you notice any of these, it’s time to leave!
If you’re unsure if it’s safe, it’s better to be cautious. Get yourself and your family out of the house and call for help. You can reach out to emergency services like the fire department or police. They’re trained to handle these situations and can tell you if it’s okay to return inside.
Remember, your safety is the most important thing. Don’t return to a dangerous house even if you’re worried about your stuff. Wait until the professionals give you the “all clear” before you go back in.
Step 2: Document the Damage
Once you’re safe, it’s time to play detective. You need to gather evidence of all the damage the storm caused. This might sound boring, but trust me, it’s super important!
Grab your phone or a camera and start taking pictures and videos of everything that’s damaged—and I mean everything! Start outside and work your way in. Got a broken window? Snap a pic. Is a tree branch on your roof? That’s another photo. Don’t forget to capture any damage to your stuff inside, like furniture or electronics.
While you’re at it, make a list of all the damaged items. Write down each item, when you bought it, and how much it cost. This list will be super helpful later when you’re dealing with insurance.
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: don’t throw away damaged items just yet. Your insurance company might want to see them as proof. Take pictures first if you need to move stuff to prevent more damage.
Step 3: Call Your Insurance Company
Alright, now it’s time to contact your insurance company. Talking to insurance people isn’t fun, but it’s a crucial step in fixing your house.
First, dig out your insurance policy. It’s that long, boring document that explains what your insurance covers. If you can’t find it, don’t sweat it. Your insurance company can send you a copy.
Next, give your insurance company a call. Let them know what happened and that you need to file a claim. They’ll guide you through the process and might send someone called an adjuster to check out the damage.
When you’re talking to your insurance company, make sure to:
- Ask about your coverage and what expenses they’ll pay for
- Find out if you need to get estimates for repairs
- Keep track of who you talk to and when
Here’s an important tip: keep all your receipts! If you must stay in a hotel or buy stuff to make temporary repairs, save those receipts. Your insurance might cover these costs.
Remember, dealing with insurance can take time. Be patient, but don’t hesitate to follow up if things take too long.
Step 4: Stop More Damage from Happening
While waiting for the insurance stuff to be sorted, you must protect your house from further damage. This step is super important because if more damage occurs, your insurance might not cover it.
If your roof has holes or windows have broken glass, you’ll want to cover them up. You can use tarps for the roof and boards for the windows. If you’re unsure how to do this safely, asking for help is okay. Some companies specialise in this kind of work.
If water gets into your house, you’ll want to dry things out as quickly as possible. If the weather is dry, use fans and open windows. This can help prevent mold, which is gross and bad for your health.
Don’t forget to document any work you do to prevent further damage. Take pictures before and after, and keep receipts if you buy supplies or hire help.
Step 5: Start Fixing Things Up
Now comes the part where you start getting your house back to normal. This can be a big job, so take a deep breath – you’ve got this!
First, you’ll need to find good people to do the repairs. Ask friends or family if they know any trustworthy contractors. You can also check online reviews. Getting estimates from at least three different contractors is a good idea.
When you’re talking to contractors:
- Ask to see their license and insurance
- Get a detailed written estimate
- Ask how long the work will take
- Don’t pay everything upfront – paying some at the start and the rest when the job is done is normal.
Once you choose a contractor, ensure you understand the contract before signing it. If there’s anything you’re not sure about, ask questions!
As the repairs are happening, keep an eye on the work. If something doesn’t look right, speak up. It’s your house, after all!
Other Things to Think About
Dealing with storm damage can be stressful. It’s okay to feel upset or overwhelmed. Remember to take care of yourself during this time. Get enough sleep, eat well, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.
If you can’t stay in your house while it’s being fixed, your insurance might pay for a hotel or rental home. Ask them about this if you need it.
Lastly, your community might have resources to help people affected by the storm. Check with your local government or community centres to see what’s available.
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it – the 5 essential steps to take after storm damage to your house:
- Make sure you’re safe
- Document all the damage
- Contact your insurance company
- Prevent more damage
- Start the repair process
Remember, recovering from storm damage takes time, but you’ll get through it. Stay positive and take it one step at a time. And hey, now you know what to do if this ever happens again (but let’s hope it doesn’t!).
Stay safe out there, and good luck with your repairs!
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