You Need to Know
Introduction
One of the most common, yet devastating, events for homeowners is storm damage. Whether it’s from a hurricane, tornado, or severe rainstorm, understanding what to do—and what not to do—in the aftermath of a storm can save you a lot of time, money, and heartache down the road.
The restoration of your property may feel overwhelming, but knowledge is power. This guide will provide you with the information you need to prepare before a storm, and restore your property afterwards with the help of a trained storm damage restoration company.
What is Storm Damage Restoration?
Storm damage restoration is the general process of returning a property to its pre-loss condition following a storm-related incident. This process is often complex and involves both repairs and restoration services. Damage can be incurred to a property in a variety of ways, including roof damage, water damage, broken windows, and fallen trees. Working with a professional storm damage restoration company can help to assess the damage, develop a repair plan and, ultimately, restore the property’s integrity.
Preparing for Storm Damage Restoration
Before a storm arrives, it’s important to prepare for potential damage to your home or business. Following are some tips for preparing for storm damage restoration.
• Have your roof and siding inspected for any weak spots that may need to be repaired or replaced before the storm hits.
• Clear debris from porches, rooflines, and gutters prior to the storm’s arrival – this will help reduce the risk of flood water damage.
• Stock up on supplies, such as sandbags and tarps. This will ensure that your home is well-shielded should you experience flooding.
• Identify any large trees or branches that may pose a risk to your property. Removing these in advance can help to reduce the risk of further damage during the storm.
• Lastly, document any pre-existing damage before the storm approaches. Taking photos of the structure and its contents before the storm can help you when filing an insurance claim later.
How to Find a Storm Damage Restoration Company
When it comes to finding a storm damage restoration company, the most important thing you can do is to do your research. There are several questions you should ask yourself prior to deciding on a contractor.
• Are they licensed and insured?
• How long have they been in businesses?
• Do they specialize in storm damage restoration?
• What services do they offer?
• What is their pricing?
• Have other customers reviewed their services?
Once you answer these questions, you can make an informed decision about which contractor to work with.
What to Expect During the Storm Damage Restoration Process
Once the storm has passed and you’ve found a storm damage restoration company to help, the process of restoring your property can begin. It’s important to understand exactly what to expect before, during, and after the process.
Before
Once the storm has passed, a representative from the storm damage restoration company will visit the property to assess the damage and create a plan of action. During this assessment, they will also note any hazardous elements and work to mitigate them.
During
Once the assessment is complete, the restoration process can begin. This will often involve authorizing repairs, hiring subcontractors for certain tasks, and coordinating the delivery of materials. It is important to keep a close eye on the progress and make sure that everything is being done to restore the property back to its pre-loss state.
After
Once the restoration process is complete, the storm damage restoration company will provide you with a detailed report that outlines the work that was completed. This report should be kept in a safe place for future reference or insurance claims.
You may also be provided with a warranty to cover any unforeseen issues that arise due to the recent storm damage.
FAQs
Q: How do I find a storm damage restoration company?
A: The best way to find a storm damage restoration company is to do your research. Ask questions such as, are they licensed and insured? Do they specialize in storm damage restoration? What services do they offer? And have other customers reviewed their services? Answering these questions will help you make an informed and confident decision.
Q: How do I prepare for storm damage restoration?
A: Before a storm hits, it’s important to take several steps to prepare for potential damage to your property. This can include having your roof and siding inspected, clearing debris from porches and rooflines, stocking up on sandbags and tarps, and identifying large trees or branches that could pose a risk. Documenting any pre-existing damage can also help when filing an insurance claim.
Q: What should I expect during the storm damage restoration process?
A: The storm damage restoration process typically involves assessing the damage, authorizing repairs, hiring subcontractors, and coordinating the delivery of materials. Once complete, you will be provided with a detailed report and warranty.
Conclusion
Storm damage restoration is a multifaceted process and can be overwhelming. However, understanding what to do—and what not to do–before, during, and after a storm can save you a lot of time, money, and heartache in the long run. Remember to conduct your research when selecting a storm damage restoration company and follow the guidelines for preparing for a storm. With the help of a professional storm damage repair company and some patience, your property can be restored.