Posted on May 31st, 2024.

Storms can leave a trail of devastation in their wake, turning a serene home into a scene of chaos. Knowing what to do after storm damage is crucial for homeowners looking to quickly restore their property. This blog post will provide clear steps to ensure your home is safe, secure, and back to its former glory as soon as possible.

Assess the Damage Safely

The first step in dealing with storm damage is to carefully assess the extent of the damage. Safety should always be your top priority. Begin by examining the exterior of your home. Look for fallen trees, downed power lines, and any structural damage. It's essential to wear protective gear such as gloves, boots, and hard hats if you need to enter areas with debris.

Once the exterior is checked, move inside. Inspect your roof for leaks, check ceilings for water spots, and look at the walls for any cracks or bulges. Pay special attention to the basement and attic, as these areas can often reveal hidden damage. Documenting everything with photos and notes will be useful when dealing with insurance claims and contractors later on.

Secure Your Property

After assessing the damage, the next step is to secure your property to prevent further issues. Start by covering any broken windows with plywood or heavy-duty plastic to keep out rain and intruders. If your roof has been damaged, use tarps to cover any exposed areas. This temporary measure will protect the interior from further water damage until permanent repairs can be made.

Additionally, ensure that your home is safe from electrical hazards. Turn off the power if there is standing water inside or if you suspect electrical wiring may be compromised. Avoid using any electrical appliances or lights until a professional can confirm they are safe to use. Securing your property promptly will minimize the risk of additional damage and keep your home safer for you and your family.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once your home is secured, it’s time to contact your insurance company. Reporting the damage as soon as possible will help expedite the claims process. Provide them with the documentation you gathered during your initial assessment. This includes photos, videos, and detailed notes on the extent and nature of the damage.

Your insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect your property and assess the damages. Be sure to keep all receipts and records of any temporary repairs you make, as these may be reimbursable under your policy. Understanding your coverage and working closely with your insurer can significantly ease the financial burden of storm damage repairs.

Remove Debris and Begin Cleanup

With insurance contacted, you can start the cleanup process. Removing debris is a crucial step in restoring your home. Begin by clearing away any fallen branches, leaves, and other debris from your yard. Dispose of broken glass, damaged furniture, and other ruined items from inside your home.

When dealing with water damage, it’s important to act quickly to prevent mold growth. Use wet/dry vacuums to remove standing water, and dehumidifiers and fans to dry out affected areas. Be mindful of areas that can retain moisture, like carpets, curtains, and upholstery. Removing these materials if they are too damaged will help prevent mold and mildew.

Start Repairs and Restoration

The final step is to begin the actual repairs and restoration of your home. This might involve hiring professionals to tackle major structural issues, roofing repairs, and extensive water damage. It's vital to choose reputable contractors with experience in storm damage restoration.

Roof repairs should be prioritized to prevent further water damage. Ensure that the contractors use high-quality materials that can withstand future storms. Interior repairs, such as fixing water-damaged walls, ceilings, and floors, should follow. Restoring your home to its pre-storm condition can be a lengthy process, but with the right team and plan, it can be done efficiently.

Prioritize Health and Safety

Amid the chaos following a storm, it’s crucial to prioritize the health and safety of everyone in your household. Storms can bring a multitude of hazards, from structural instability to water contamination. Before starting any cleanup or repairs, ensure that everyone is out of immediate danger and that the environment is safe to work in.

Check for any signs of gas leaks, such as a sulfur-like smell, and if detected, evacuate immediately and contact your gas company. If there’s standing water in your home, be cautious of potential electrical hazards. Use protective gear like gloves and masks, especially if you're dealing with mold or contaminated water. It’s also advisable to keep children and pets away from the damaged areas until they have been fully restored.

For water damage, consider having the water tested to ensure it’s safe for use, as floodwaters can carry harmful bacteria and chemicals. If you suspect mold, it’s best to hire professionals for mold remediation to avoid health risks associated with mold exposure. By keeping health and safety at the forefront, you can effectively manage the aftermath of storm damage while protecting your loved ones.

Document Everything Thoroughly

One critical step that homeowners often overlook in the aftermath of a storm is thorough documentation. Accurate and comprehensive documentation of the damage is essential for insurance claims and future reference. This can significantly affect the efficiency and outcome of your restoration efforts.

Start by taking detailed photographs and videos of all affected areas, both inside and outside your home. Capture every angle and make sure to include close-ups of significant damage such as broken windows, roof damage, water stains, and damaged personal property. It's helpful to write detailed descriptions of the damages, including the date and time the storm occurred.

In addition to visual documentation, keep a written record of all communications with your insurance company, contractors, and any other relevant parties. Save all receipts and invoices related to temporary repairs, debris removal, and any other storm-related expenses. These documents will support your insurance claim and can also be useful if there are any disputes or questions in the future.

Having a well-organized record of the damage and repair process can streamline interactions with your insurance adjuster and ensure that you receive the full compensation you're entitled to. It also helps your contractor understand the extent of the damage and plan the restoration more effectively.

Conclusion

Navigating the aftermath of a storm can be daunting, but by following these steps, homeowners can effectively manage and mitigate the damage. At Lucks Construction LLC, we understand the urgency and complexity of storm damage restoration. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you quickly restore your home to its best condition. Contact us at (319) 899-1613 or email us at [email protected] for reliable storm damage restoration services.