Tips for Homeowners Confronted with Property Damage after Hurricanes Helene and Milton
After a hurricane like Helene or Milton hits, the aftermath can be overwhelming for homeowners. Knowing where to begin your inspection and understanding the next steps to protect your property can help reduce stress and prevent further damage. Here are essential tips for homeowners to assess property damage after a hurricane. Additionally, there is help out there, and licensed professionals will converge on your area to assist you in navigating a proper recovery.
The tips below are based on customary protocols whether you are dealing with an insurance claim or going it alone:
Step 1. Document Everything
One of the most important first steps after a hurricane is to take photos of everything. Whether it’s minor or severe damage, no detail is too small to capture.
- Photograph damaged areas from multiple angles.
- Take close-ups of any visible cracks in walls and ceilings, water damage, or damage to your home’s structure.
- Don’t forget to document items that have been affected, such as furniture, electronics, and appliances, even the contents of your refrigerator and kitchen cabinets
This visual documentation will be vital for your insurance claim or for obtaining aid that is available through private, nongovernment organizations and FEMA. It will provide proof of the extent of the damage.
Step 2. Remove Water-Damaged Items Promptly
Water damage is notorious for leading to mold growth, which can cause even more issues down the road. To limit mold growth:
- Remove any water-damaged items as quickly as possible.
- Pay particular attention to carpets, drywall, insulation, and furniture, as these can become mold magnets if left untreated.
If you’re unsure how to handle water damage safely, retain the services of a local, reputable water damage mitigation contractor. Local experts will be familiar with the specific conditions in your area and are more likely to be reliable than out-of-town contractors.
3. Beware of Scams
In the aftermath of hurricanes, some opportunistic contractors may try to take advantage of desperate homeowners.
- Avoid “fly by night” operations by thoroughly checking contractors before hiring.
- If a contractor is out of state, take steps to ensure they are licensed and permitted to work in your state before moving forward.
Working with a local contractor reduces the risk of scams. It also ensures that the contractor understands the local regulations and has a vested interest in their reputation in the community.
4. Take Preventative Steps to Avoid Further Damage
Once you’ve documented the damage and removed affected items, taking reasonable steps to protect your home from further damage is essential. If you have filed an insurance claim, your policy clearly states that this is your responsibility. Not doing so could result in a contentious battle with your insurance carrier.
This could include:
- Remove any fallen trees or branches that have made contact with any structure on the property.
- Tarping the roof to prevent rain from causing further damage.
- Boarding up broken windows and doors.
These actions are not just for your peace of mind; as mentioned above, insurance policies often require them to avoid denying a claim due to this policy language.
5. Rely on a Trusted Expert
Handling the aftermath of hurricane damage can be daunting, especially when navigating insurance claims and ensuring your home is restored correctly. That’s where Insurance professionals come in. With years of experience and commitment to their clients and the professionals handling property loss insurance claims, they are a trusted resource for ensuring you receive the support you need. Our local expertise means we understand the unique conditions caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton and can provide personalized advice to help resolve claims and get the best outcomes for everyone involved.
Bell Property Loss Consultants are Building Consultants whose expertise is in Accurate Valuation of Damage for any insurance claim. We provide written estimates and the proper documentation to ensure your claim is processed and paid properly. If your claim is not being settled properly or actively, there is a process in the policy called Insurance Appraisal. Bell Property Loss Consultants are expert Appraisers and Umpires that specialize in Disaster Recovery and will get your claim solved through the Appraisal Process. Click here for a sample Appraisal Clause.
