The Do’s & Don’ts of Dealing With Storm Damage

St Louis is known for its unpredictable weather, especially during the spring and summer seasons. Strong winds, heavy rain, and hail can cause significant damage to homes and properties. Dealing with storm damage can be overwhelming, but it is important to take the right steps to ensure the safety of your family and property. In this article, we’ll cover the do’s and don’ts of dealing with storm damage in St Louis.

Do’s of Dealing with Storm Damage

Assess the Damage

The first step in dealing with storm damage is to assess the damage. Take a walk around your property and look for any broken windows, fallen trees, damaged roofs, or other signs of damage. Make a list of the damage and take photos to document it. This will be important when filing an insurance claim.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you have assessed the damage, it is time to contact your insurance company. They will provide you with guidance on the next steps and may send an adjuster to inspect the damage. It is important to have your insurance policy and contact information readily available when you call.

Make Temporary Repairs

If there is significant damage to your property, it is important to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Cover any broken windows with plastic sheeting, remove fallen trees or branches, and put tarps over any damaged roofs. These temporary repairs will help protect your property from further damage until permanent repairs can be made.

Stay Safe

Safety should always be your top priority when dealing with storm damage. Be careful when walking around your property, as there may be power lines down or other hazards. If you come across a damaged power line, stay away and call the power company immediately.

Hire a Professional

When it comes to making permanent repairs, it is important to hire a professional. Storm damage can be complex and requires specialized skills and equipment. A professional will be able to make the necessary repairs to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Don’ts of Dealing with Storm Damage

Don’t Delay

It is important to take action as soon as possible after a storm. Delaying repairs can lead to further damage and even make the repairs more expensive. The sooner you start the repair process, the sooner you can get back to your normal routine.

Don’t Attempt to Make Repairs Yourself

Making repairs to your property after a storm can be dangerous and should only be done by a professional. Attempting to make repairs yourself can result in further damage and even injury. Leave the repairs to the experts and stay safe.

Don’t Ignore Safety Precautions

When dealing with storm damage, it is important to follow safety precautions. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and a hard hat, when removing fallen trees or making repairs. Stay away from damaged power lines and call the power company if you come across one.

Don’t Hire Unlicensed Contractors

It is important to only hire licensed and insured contractors when making repairs to your property. Unlicensed contractors may not have the necessary skills or equipment to make the repairs and may not be able to provide the necessary warranties or guarantees. Hiring a licensed contractor will ensure that the repairs are made correctly and will give you peace of mind.

Don’t Forget to Document the Damage

When dealing with storm damage, it is important to document the damage. Take photos and make a list of the damage to provide to your insurance company. This will help ensure that you receive the necessary compensation for the repairs.

Don’t Neglect the Inside of Your Home

Storm damage is not limited to the outside of your home. The inside of your home can also be affected by heavy rain, strong winds, and hail. Check for water damage, mold, and other signs of damage inside your home and make the necessary repairs.

Don’t Forget About Your Personal Belongings

Your personal belongings can also be damaged during a storm. Check your belongings for damage and make a list of any items that need to be repaired or replaced. This list should be provided to your insurance company when making a claim.

Don’t Rush into Making a Decision

When dealing with storm damage, it is important to take your time and make informed decisions. Don’t rush into making a decision on repairs or hiring a contractor. Take the time to research your options and make the best decision for your situation.

Don’t Neglect Your Mental Health

Dealing with storm damage can be stressful and overwhelming. It is important to take care of your mental health and seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed.

Don’t Forget About Preparing for the Next Storm

After dealing with storm damage, it is important to take steps to prepare for the next storm. This may include installing storm shutters, reinforcing your roof, and making other necessary improvements to protect your home and property.

Conclusion

Dealing with storm damage in St Louis can be overwhelming, but by following the do’s and don’ts outlined in this article, you can ensure the safety of your family and property and make the necessary repairs to restore your home to its pre-storm condition. If you are in need of assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help.