What to do if you have storm damage?

Introduction

Storm damage can have a significant impact on homes, particularly in areas prone to severe weather. Understanding what constitutes storm damage and knowing the steps to take if your home is affected can help you manage the situation effectively and minimize further damage. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of dealing with storm damage, from the immediate steps to take after a storm to the repair and restoration process.

Understanding Storm Damage

Storm damage refers to any damage caused to your home by severe weather events. This can include wind damage, hail damage, water damage from heavy rain, and even damage caused by falling trees or debris during a storm.

The type and extent of storm damage can vary widely depending on the severity of the storm and the specific conditions at your home. For example, a home with a sturdy, well-maintained roof may suffer less damage during a storm compared to a home with a roof that's in poor condition.

It's also important to note that not all storm damage is immediately visible. Some types of damage, such as minor leaks or hail damage to your roof, may not be noticeable until after the storm has passed. That's why it's crucial to inspect your home for damage after a storm, even if everything seems fine at first glance.

Immediate Steps After a Storm

The moments after a storm can be chaotic and stressful, but it's important to take immediate steps to ensure your safety and minimize further damage to your home. Here's what you should do immediately after a storm:

1. Ensure Safety: Your safety and the safety of your family should be your first priority. If the storm has caused significant damage, it may be unsafe to stay in your home. Listen to local authorities and evacuate if necessary.
2. Assess the Damage: Once it's safe to do so, take a preliminary look at your home to assess the damage. Look for visible signs of damage such as missing shingles, damaged siding, broken windows, or fallen trees.
3. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage for your insurance claim. Try to document the damage as thoroughly as possible, capturing all areas of your home that have been affected.
4. Prevent Further Damage: If possible, take steps to prevent further damage to your home. This might include covering broken windows with plastic sheeting, placing buckets under leaks, or moving belongings to a dry area.

Remember, these are just immediate steps to take after a storm. Dealing with storm damage involves a longer process that includes working with your insurance company and a professional contractor to repair the damage.

Contacting Your Insurance Company

After a storm, one of the first calls you should make is to your insurance company. Here's what you need to know about this step:

1. When to Call: You should contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the storm. The sooner you report the damage, the sooner they can start processing your claim.
2. What to Provide: When you call your insurance company, be ready to provide details about the damage. This is where the photos and videos you took can come in handy. You'll also need to provide information about your policy.
3. Understanding Your Coverage: It's important to understand what your insurance policy covers. Some policies cover the cost of temporary repairs or living expenses if you have to leave your home. Your insurance company can explain what your policy covers.

Remember, your insurance company is there to help you recover from storm damage. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification if you're unsure about anything.

Working with Professionals

After a storm, it's crucial to work with professionals to assess and repair the damage to your home. Here's why:

1. Professional Inspections: A professional inspection can identify damage that you might have missed. Professionals know what to look for and can assess the extent of the damage more accurately. At Simpson Contracting, we use drone technology to conduct thorough inspections, capturing high-resolution images and videos of your roof.
2. Choosing a Trusted Contractor: When it comes to repairing storm damage, it's important to choose a contractor you can trust. A reliable contractor will provide quality work and stand behind it. Simpson Contracting is a top-rated roofing company in Indianapolis, known for our exceptional service and craftsmanship.
3. Quality Repairs: Professionals have the skills and experience to perform quality repairs that will last. They can also advise you on the best solutions for your specific situation, whether that's a simple repair or a full roof replacement.

Working with professionals can give you peace of mind and ensure that your home is properly repaired and protected from future storms.

The Repair and Restoration Process

After a storm, your home may require repairs or even a complete restoration. Here's an overview of what this process might look like:

1. Inspection and Estimate: A professional contractor will inspect your home to assess the damage and provide an estimate for the repair or restoration work. This estimate should include a breakdown of the costs for materials and labor.
2. Insurance Claim: If you're filing an insurance claim, your contractor can assist you in this process. They can provide the necessary documentation and work with your insurance company to ensure you get the coverage you're entitled to.
3. Repair or Restoration Work: The contractor will then begin the repair or restoration work. This could involve repairing a damaged roof, replacing siding, or even restoring your entire home.
4. Final Inspection and Cleanup: After the work is completed, the contractor should conduct a final inspection to ensure everything has been done correctly. They should also clean up the work area, leaving your property clean and tidy.
5. Follow-Up: A good contractor will follow up with you to ensure you're satisfied with the work and to answer any questions you may have.

At Simpson Contracting, we're committed to providing professional, reliable storm damage repair and restoration services. We understand the stress and disruption that storm damage can cause, and we're here to make the repair and restoration process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Preventing Future Storm Damage

While it's impossible to prevent storms, there are steps you can take to protect your home from future storm damage. Here are some tips:

1. Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance can help prevent storm damage. This includes keeping your gutters clean, checking your roof for damage regularly, and trimming trees near your home.
2. Roof Inspections: Regular roof inspections can identify potential issues before they become major problems. At Simpson Contracting, we offer professional roof inspections to help you maintain your roof and prevent storm damage.
3. Quality Materials: Using quality materials can make your home more resistant to storm damage. For example, impact-resistant shingles can withstand hail damage better than standard shingles.
4. Professional Installation: Proper installation is crucial in preventing storm damage. A poorly installed roof or siding can be more susceptible to damage during a storm. Always work with a professional contractor to ensure proper installation.

By taking these steps, you can protect your home from future storm damage and minimize the impact of severe weather.

Conclusion

Dealing with storm damage can be a stressful and overwhelming process, but knowing what steps to take can make it more manageable. From ensuring your safety and documenting the damage, to contacting your insurance company and working with professionals like Simpson Contracting, you can navigate the aftermath of a storm effectively and get your home back to its pre-storm condition.

At Simpson Contracting, we're committed to helping homeowners in Indiana recover from storm damage. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to assist you every step of the way, providing reliable, efficient services to repair and restore your home.

Remember, prevention is the best protection against storm damage. Regular maintenance, professional inspections, and quality materials can help protect your home from future storms. If you have any questions or need assistance with storm damage, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help.