What To Do When Your House Has Been Damaged in a Storm
When a severe storm hits, your house can sometimes take the brunt of it, leaving you to deal with the damage and the stress. But you can smooth out the process by following some manageable steps.
Get to Safety
Your first step in case of a storm is to get yourself and your family to safety. Do not stay in a damaged house if there is any danger of injury. Go to a friend’s house or a motel until you can assess the situation.
Document Everything
When it is safe to go back to your home, or if you are in no danger by staying, then document all the damage. Write down what happened and when, and take plenty of pictures. Make sure to record the damage from all sides and angles. You will need the documentation for your insurance claim, so be thorough.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Now it is time to contact your insurance company. An agent will likely meet you at your home for an inspection, and you should present all your documentation and pictures, neatly organized. You will probably have to be quite patient with your insurance company as they are not known for speed, but you should also keep on top of the situation by calling to check on progress.
Start Repairs
When your insurance claim and payment come through, it will be time to start repairs. Depending on the extent of damage, you may want to hire a general contractor to manage the project. Read reviews for several contractors online, and choose some likely candidates to provide quotes in writing. Alternately, you might contact a roofing company Killeen TX or another service according to your needs. Just be sure to remain in constant communication with your contractor or company during repairs.
With some time, effort, good organization and perseverance, you can get your home and your life back to normal after a storm.