When storms strike your home, it’s important to know if your insurance will help with repairs. Most standard home insurance policies cover various types of storm damage, including wind, hail, and lightning. These protections are typically part of your regular homeowners coverage.

Home insurance generally covers storm damage, but the specific coverage depends on your policy and the type of damage that occurred. For example, damage from tornadoes and windstorms is usually covered, while flood damage typically requires separate insurance. Understanding these distinctions can save you from unexpected out-of-pocket costs after a severe weather event.

While your policy likely protects against many storm-related issues, it’s worth reviewing your coverage details before bad weather hits. This way, you’ll know exactly what protection you have and where potential gaps might exist.

Understanding Home Insurance Coverage

Home insurance protects your home against various types of damage, including many forms of storm damage. Most standard policies cover wind and hail damage, but the specifics depend on your policy’s terms and where you live.

Types of Coverage in a Homeowners Policy

Most home insurance policies include several key types of coverage that can help with storm damage:

• Dwelling coverage: Pays for damage to your home’s structure from covered perils like wind and hail

• Personal property coverage: Protects your belongings inside the home

• Additional living expenses: This covers costs if you need to relocate temporarily while repairs are made

• Other structures coverage: Protects detached structures like garages or sheds

Wind damage from storms, including tornadoes, is typically covered under standard policies. Hail damage to your roof, siding, and windows is also usually included. However, coverage can vary by insurer and region.

Limits and Exclusions of Standard Home Insurance

While home insurance covers many types of storm damage, there are limitations to understand. Some policies have separate, higher deductibles specifically for hurricane or tornado damage. These might be a percentage of your home’s insured value rather than a fixed amount.

Certain types of storm damage may be excluded from standard coverage:

• Flood damage requires separate flood insurance
• Water damage from sewer backups might need additional endorsements
• Damage from earthquakes is typically excluded

Review your policy carefully to understand what storm events are covered. Homes in high-risk areas for specific weather events might face more restrictions or higher premiums.

Specifics of Storm Damage Coverage

Home insurance policies typically cover various types of storm damage, but the specifics can vary between policies. Understanding what is and isn’t covered can help you prepare for storm seasons and know when to file claims.

Windstorm and Hail Damage

Most standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for windstorm and hail damage. This typically covers repairs to your roof, siding, windows, and other structural elements damaged by strong winds or hail.

Before storm season arrives, take photos of your property while it’s in good condition to have evidence for comparison if damage occurs. Insurance companies may have specific provisions for windstorm damage in areas prone to hurricanes or tornadoes. Some policies in these regions might have a separate, higher deductible specifically for hurricane or tornado damage.

If your home experiences windstorm or hail damage, make temporary repairs as needed to prevent further issues. Keep all receipts for materials used in these temporary fixes as they may be reimbursable.

Water Damage and Flood Insurance

Water damage coverage in standard homeowners policies is typically limited to specific scenarios. Insurance usually covers water damage if it’s caused by a storm that damages your home’s structure first – like if wind damages your roof and rain enters. However, standard policies don’t cover flood damage. This includes water entering your home from ground level due to heavy rain, overflowing rivers, or storm surges.

For flood protection, you’ll need separate flood insurance. This is often available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. Even homes not in designated flood zones can experience flooding. We’ve seen many cases where homeowners without flood insurance faced significant out-of-pocket costs after unexpected flooding events.

Additional Living Expenses

If storm damage makes your home temporarily uninhabitable, your policy may cover Additional Living Expenses (ALE). This helps pay for hotel stays, restaurant meals, and other costs while you’re displaced.

ALE coverage typically includes:

• Hotel or rental home costs
• Restaurant meals
• Laundry services
• Pet boarding
• Storage fees

Most policies set limits on ALE coverage, either as a percentage of your dwelling coverage or as a specific dollar amount. Time limits may also apply, often ranging from 12 to 24 months. Keep all receipts for expenses incurred while displaced. Contact your insurance representative immediately after displacement to understand the specific coverage available and any requirements for documentation.

Claims and Reimbursement Process

Navigating insurance claims after storm damage requires understanding the proper steps and timelines. The process involves filing documentation, working with adjusters, and following specific guidelines to receive appropriate compensation.

Filing a Claim for Storm Damage

When storm damage occurs, contact your insurance company immediately, as most policies require reporting damage within a specific timeframe, typically 30-60 days after the incident. Document all damage thoroughly before cleanup begins, taking photos and videos showing the extent of the storm damage from multiple angles.

Make a detailed inventory of damaged items, including their age and estimated value. Keep all receipts for emergency repairs, as these expenses are often reimbursable under your homeowners policy. Be prepared to provide your policy number, description of damage, and date of the storm when filing. Many insurance companies now offer online claim filing through their websites or mobile apps.

Assessment and Approval of Claims

After filing, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to evaluate the damage. They’ll schedule an inspection of your property, usually within a few days to a week after your claim. During the inspection, walk through the property with the adjuster and point out all damage. Having your documentation ready will help ensure nothing is overlooked.

The adjuster will determine if the damage is covered under your homeowners policy and estimate repair costs. They’ll consider factors like:

• Type of storm damage (wind, hail, flooding)
• Pre-existing damage vs. new damage
• Policy coverage limits
• Applicable deductibles

If you disagree with the assessment, you can request a second opinion or hire a public adjuster to review the claim.

Disbursement and Use of Funds

Once your claim is approved, the insurance company will issue payment based on the settlement terms. Most policies pay actual cash value initially, which is replacement cost minus depreciation. The remaining portion comes after repairs are completed and receipts are submitted. This two-payment system ensures repairs are completed.

Your mortgage lender may be listed on insurance checks if you have a home loan. This means they’ll need to endorse the check before you can use the funds. Deductibles are subtracted from your payout amount. Remember that storm damage from hurricanes or windstorms may have special, higher deductibles than standard claims.

Use insurance funds only for approved repairs, as misusing settlement money could violate your policy terms and affect future claims.

Preventative Measures and Maintenance

Regular upkeep and strategic improvements significantly reduce your risk during severe weather events.

Protecting Your Home Against Severe Weather

1. Install impact-resistant windows and reinforced doors in regions prone to hurricanes or tornadoes. These upgrades may even qualify you for insurance discounts.

2. Trim trees regularly to prevent branches from falling on your roof or siding during high winds. Consider removing dead or dying trees entirely, as many policies cover tree removal costs if they pose a threat to covered structures.

3. Install a sump pump with a battery backup to prevent basement flooding during heavy rains. Many policies offer additional coverage for sump pump failure, but this often requires a separate endorsement.

4. For areas with freezing temperatures, insulate pipes in unheated spaces and maintain a minimum heat level when away to prevent frozen pipes and subsequent water damage.

Regular Maintenance to Minimize Damage

1. Inspect your roof annually for missing shingles, cracks, or weak spots. A well-maintained roof is your first defense against water intrusion during storms.

2. Clean gutters and downspouts seasonally to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water backup, leading to roof and foundation damage that may not be covered by insurance.

3. Check your home’s exterior for cracks or openings that could allow water entry. Seal these promptly to prevent water damage.

4. Test your sump pump quarterly and before major storms to ensure it’s functioning properly. If you have a backup system, test it, too.

5. Keep an updated home inventory with photos and receipts. This documentation proves invaluable when filing claims for storm-damaged possessions and speeds up the settlement process.

Get in touch to discuss safeguarding measures to protect your home from storms and flood damage.

When storms strike, they often leave behind significant damage to homes and properties. However, hiring experienced storm damage restoration professionals will lower your overall losses and reduce cleanup and restoration costs in the long run.

From water intrusion to structural issues, the problems that storms create require specialized knowledge and equipment to address properly. Restoration companies bring expertise in identifying hidden damage that might not be immediately visible but could lead to serious problems like mold growth or compromised structural integrity if left untreated.

Professional storm damage restoration services offer comprehensive solutions that go beyond simple cleanup. They can help navigate insurance claims, provide emergency services to prevent further damage, and restore your property to its pre-storm condition. Their training and experience allow them to work efficiently and safely, giving you peace of mind during a stressful time.

Assessing the Extent of Storm Damage

Proper storm damage assessment is crucial before deciding if professional restoration is necessary. A thorough inspection helps identify structural weaknesses, water intrusion points, and potential areas for mold growth that may not be immediately visible.

Identifying Structural Damage

Storm events can compromise your home’s structural integrity in ways that aren’t always obvious. First, check your property for shifted foundation elements, cracked walls, or bulging ceilings. Then, look carefully at your roof for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or sagging sections. These issues often indicate more serious problems underneath.

Fallen trees or large branches might have caused impact damage that weakened critical support structures. Pay special attention to chimney alignment and new cracks around windows and doorframes. Finally, inspect attic beams and trusses for cracks or water stains, as roof damage often affects these components first. You should document all visible issues with photos for insurance purposes.

Evaluating Water and Wind Damage

Water and wind cause distinct patterns of damage that require different restoration approaches. After floods or heavy rain, check for:

• Water lines on walls
• Warped flooring or bubbling paint
• Damp insulation in attics or crawl spaces
• Moisture behind walls (using a moisture meter if possible)

Wind damage typically appears as:

• Torn siding or damaged exterior trim
• Broken windows or damaged seals
• Loose gutters or downspouts
• Debris impact marks on exterior surfaces

Determining the Need for Mold Remediation

Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours after water exposure, making a quick assessment essential. Check dark, damp areas first, including basements, crawl spaces, and areas with known water intrusion. Signs that indicate potential mold issues include musty odors, visible mold growth (even small patches), and increased allergy symptoms among household members.

Water-damaged materials like drywall, carpet, and wood provide perfect conditions for mold growth, and these items may need removal even if mold isn’t yet visible. Arrange for professional testing if you suspect hidden mold, especially after significant water damage. While some minor mold situations can be handled without professionals, extensive contamination typically requires specialized equipment and techniques to ensure complete remediation.

Navigating Insurance and Financial Concerns

Dealing with storm damage often involves complex insurance processes and financial decisions. Insurance coverage can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses, but you need to understand your policy details and follow proper procedures.

Understanding Insurance Coverage

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover storm damage, but coverage varies widely, so review your policy to understand what’s included and excluded. Many policies cover wind damage, hail, and lightning strikes but may have limitations for flooding or certain types of water damage.

Look for these key elements in your policy:

• Deductible amount – what you’ll pay before insurance kicks in
• Coverage limits – maximum amount the insurance will pay
• Exclusions – specific damages not covered
• Additional living expenses – coverage if your home becomes uninhabitable

Some policies include replacement cost coverage, which pays to restore your home to its pre-loss condition. Others offer actual cash value, which factors in depreciation and may leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Filing Insurance Claims

It’s key to document all damage with photos and videos before any cleanup begins, then contact your insurance company immediately to report the damage and start the claims process. Most insurance companies require homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. This might include covering broken windows or placing tarps over roof damage. Ensure you keep all receipts for emergency repairs, as these costs are often reimbursable.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage, but having a professional restoration company present during this inspection can help ensure all damage is properly identified and documented. Many restoration companies work directly with insurance providers to streamline the claims process and reduce your paperwork burden.

Costs and Financing Restoration Efforts

Storm restoration costs vary based on damage extent, home size, and location. Minor repairs might cost a few hundred dollars, while major structural restoration can run into tens of thousands. Insurance typically covers most expenses minus your deductible, but gaps in coverage can occur. Always get detailed written estimates from restoration professionals that clearly outline what’s covered by insurance and what isn’t.

For uncovered expenses, several financing options exist:

• Insurance claim advances – partial upfront payments from your insurer
• Home equity loans or lines of credit
• Emergency savings accounts
• Disaster assistance programs through FEMA or SBA

Many restoration companies offer payment plans or financing options, and some may defer payment until your insurance claim is processed, making it easier to begin restoration quickly without immediate out-of-pocket expenses.

Professional Restoration Process

Professional storm damage restoration follows a systematic approach that ensures your property returns to its pre-damage condition. Each stage is carefully executed by trained experts using specialized equipment and proven techniques.

Initial Emergency Response and Assessment

A professional restoration company will secure your property after storm damage by covering broken windows, tarping damaged roofs, and removing fallen trees or debris that pose immediate risks. The technicians then conduct a thorough inspection to assess the full extent of the damage. This involves identifying safety hazards like structural weaknesses, electrical problems, or contaminated water that require immediate attention.

They’ll use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden water that might not be visible to the naked eye. During this phase, detailed documentation of the damage is compiled to help with insurance claims and create a restoration roadmap.

Comprehensive Cleanup and Water Extraction

Once the assessment is complete, the cleanup phase begins with powerful water extraction equipment. Professional-grade pumps and vacuums remove standing water from floors, carpets, and hard-to-reach areas. After bulk water removal, specialized dehumidifiers and air movers are used to dry the structure. This equipment is strategically placed to create optimal airflow and moisture evaporation throughout the affected areas.

Content removal and sorting is next, and experts carefully separate salvageable items from those that must be discarded. Sanitization is the next critical step to prevent mold growth and eliminate contaminants. Professional-grade antimicrobial treatments are applied to affected surfaces to ensure a clean, safe environment.

Repair and Restoration Steps

With the property dry and clean, the repair process begins. Damaged drywall, insulation, and flooring are removed and replaced with new materials. Structural repairs address compromised building elements like roof trusses, wall studs, or foundation issues. These repairs ensure your home is safe and sound.

Electrical systems damaged by water are inspected and repaired by licensed electricians who work with the restoration team. This includes fixing wiring, outlets, and circuit breakers. Plumbing systems are also checked for damage and leaks that might have occurred during the storm. Repairs or replacements are made as needed to restore proper function. HVAC systems often require cleaning or repair after storm damage. 

Finalizing the Restoration to Pre-Loss Condition

The final phase focuses on aesthetic restoration and finishing touches. This includes painting, installing trim, and completing cosmetic details to match your home’s pre-storm appearance. Quality control inspections verify that all work meets industry standards and building codes. 

All completed work will be reviewed with you to ensure your satisfaction, and a walkthrough helps you understand what repairs were made and how to maintain them. The restoration company provides documentation of all completed work for your records and the insurance company. This includes warranties on workmanship and materials.

Choosing the Right Storm Damage Restoration Service

Selecting a professional storm damage restoration service is crucial for proper recovery after disaster strikes. The right company will provide timely service, quality workmanship and help navigate insurance claims, while the wrong choice could lead to additional problems.

Criteria for Selecting a Restoration Company

Always look for restoration companies with proper licensing and insurance, as these credentials protect you and the workers during the restoration process. Professional certifications from organizations like the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) also indicate a commitment to industry standards and ongoing education.

Experience matters significantly, and companies with 5+ years in storm damage repair will have encountered various situations. Verify that the company specializes in your specific type of damage. Some focus on water damage, while others excel at roof repair or structural restoration.

Important qualifications to check:

• Valid license and insurance
• IICRC certification
• Experience with your specific damage type
• Positive customer reviews
• Better Business Bureau rating

Emergency Services and Response Times

After storm damage, a quick response can prevent secondary problems like mold growth or structural weakening. The best restoration companies offer 24/7 emergency services with rapid response times. Choose a company that guarantees arrival within 1-2 hours for emergencies, and ask about their average response time before hiring them.

Also, look for companies that provide temporary solutions during their first visit, including:

• Roof tarping
• Board-up services
• Water extraction
• Temporary power solutions

Companies handling commercial storm damage restoration often have larger teams ready to deploy for bigger projects. This matters if you’re dealing with extensive damage or a business property where time equals money. Their emergency response protocol should include immediate mitigation steps to prevent further damage while developing a comprehensive restoration plan.

Obtaining a Free Estimate

Most reputable storm damage repair services offer free damage assessments and estimates. This initial consultation helps you understand the scope of work needed and approximate costs. During the estimate process, the representative should thoroughly document all damage. 

A quality estimate will break down:

• Materials needed
• Labor costs
• Timeline for completion
• Potential complications

Be wary of contractors who pressure you to sign contracts immediately; always take time to compare at least three different estimates before making your decision.

Get in touch to discuss the next steps after your home has suffered storm damage.

When storms damage your home, you might wonder if you can still live there. This is a common concern for many homeowners and renters who face this difficult situation. However, safety should always be your top priority, and you should not return to your storm-damaged property until authorities have declared it safe. 

Even if the damage seems minor, hidden issues like structural weakness, electrical problems, broken water lines, or gas leaks could put you at serious risk. Fortunately, your insurance policy may cover temporary housing costs like hotel stays if your home was damaged by an event your policy covers.

For minor damage that doesn’t affect critical areas of your home, you can stay while repairs are made. However, if you’re a renter, you may have options like requesting a rent reduction or ending your lease if the property is significantly damaged. Always consult with insurance representatives and local authorities before deciding to stay in a storm-damaged property.

Assessing Property Damage and Safety

After a storm has passed, evaluate your property before deciding if it’s safe to stay. This assessment should focus on structural integrity and identifying potential dangers that could put you at risk.

Determining Structural Integrity

Examine your property from the outside before entering, looking for visible damage to the roof, walls, foundation, and support structures. Check for shifted walls, sagging rooflines, or cracks in the foundation that might indicate structural weakness. Take photos and videos of all damage for insurance purposes, documenting everything thoroughly before making any repairs or removing debris.

Always wait for official clearance from local authorities before entering a severely damaged building. If you’ve received a “Substantial Damage Determination Letter,” it means your property has significant damage. This often requires additional permits and compliance with current building codes before reoccupation.

Identifying Potential Hazards

Be alert for immediate dangers that aren’t always obvious, watching for exposed electrical wires, gas leaks, weakened floorboards, and contaminated water. If you smell gas or see sparking electrical components, leave immediately and call emergency services. Also, beware of hazards from exposed nails, broken glass, and sharp metal. Be sure to wear protective gloves, boots, and clothing when inspecting damage.

Water damage can create hidden dangers, too, so look for signs of water intrusion in walls, ceilings, and flooring. Wet materials can collapse unexpectedly or develop dangerous mold within days. Structural shifts may have compromised stairs, porches, or balconies. Test these carefully before putting your full weight on them.

Remember that some hazards develop over time, so ongoing monitoring is essential, even if your initial assessment suggests minimal danger.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

After storm damage occurs, knowing your legal rights and responsibilities helps you make informed decisions about staying in or leaving your property. These rights vary depending on whether you own or rent the property and the extent of the damage.

Legal Aspects of Storm Damage

Property owners have specific rights when their homes suffer storm damage. If your property is damaged due to someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds for a liability claim. For example, if a neighbor’s dead tree falls on your house during a storm after you previously notified them about the hazard.

In many states, property owners can sue responsible parties for damages to recover repair costs. The legal process typically requires:

• Documenting all damage with photos and videos
• Getting professional assessments of repair costs
• Filing claims within the statute of limitations (typically 2-3 years)

Insurance and Compensation Claims

Filing proper insurance claims is crucial for receiving compensation for storm damage, and you should take these steps immediately:

1. Review your policy to understand coverage limits and exclusions
2. Document all damage thoroughly before making repairs
3. File claims promptly—most policies have time limits
4. Keep records of all communication with insurance representatives

For partially damaged properties that remain habitable, most insurance policies provide Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage only if authorities declare the home uninhabitable. Be aware that insurance companies may dispute the cause or extent of damage. Having an independent assessment can strengthen your position during negotiations and help you receive fair compensation for your losses.

Tenant and Landlord Obligations in Rental Properties

In rental situations, tenants and landlords have specific responsibilities after storm damage. Tenants must continue paying rent if the unit remains livable, even with minor damage. However, you can request urgent repairs from your landlord.

Landlords must:

• Make necessary repairs to maintain habitable conditions
• Follow health and safety codes
• Respond to repair requests promptly

If storm damage makes your rental unit uninhabitable, current laws may allow you to:

• Break your lease without penalty
• Request temporary housing assistance
• Withhold rent until repairs are completed

Communication is essential, so document all damage in writing and send repair requests to your landlord via certified mail. This creates a paper trail that protects your rights if legal disputes arise later.

Navigating Temporary Relocation

You may need to relocate temporarily while repairs take place. Insurance often covers these costs, and there are resources to help you find suitable accommodation during this difficult time.

Seeking Temporary Accommodation

The first step after storm damage is to contact your homeowners or renters’ insurance, asking specifically about coverage for “Additional Living Expenses” or “Loss of Use” provisions. These typically cover hotel stays, rental properties, and other reasonable expenses while your home is uninhabitable. 

Then, search for accommodations that match your family’s needs. Hotels work well for short-term situations, while rental homes might be better for longer repairs (typically 3+ months).

Some good options to explore:

• Extended stay hotels
• Short-term apartment rentals
• Vacation rentals
• Staying with family or friends

Financial Assistance for Relocation

Your insurance policy likely covers temporary relocation costs if your home is deemed unsafe or uninhabitable. 

The coverage typically includes:

• Rent payments for temporary housing
• Hotel bills
• Additional food costs (if exceeding normal expenses)
• Storage fees for furniture
• Moving or transportation expenses

FEMA may provide additional assistance if your area is declared a disaster zone; this support is particularly helpful when insurance coverage falls short. Most policies have coverage limits, so review your policy carefully to understand these limits and ensure you’re making the most of available funds. If you have concerns about coverage, speak directly with your insurance adjuster. Track all expenses meticulously with receipts and documentation to ensure proper reimbursement and avoid any payment delays.

Get in touch to schedule emergency repairs for your storm-damaged property to return it to a liveable condition as soon as possible.

Homes and businesses often suffer significant storm damage that requires prompt attention. We know how stressful and overwhelming storm damage can be for property owners. 

Professional storm damage services offer expert help to assess and repair weather-related destruction. These specialized companies have the skills, equipment, and experience to restore properties quickly after severe storms. Their services typically include emergency roof tarping, debris removal, water extraction, and structural repairs.

Understanding Storm Damage and Its Impacts

Storm damage can devastate homes and communities. We’ll explore the main types of damage and how natural disasters affect properties.

Types of Storm Damage

• Hurricanes bring powerful winds and flooding, tearing off roofs, shattering windows, and flooding buildings. Strong winds may even topple trees onto houses.

• Tornadoes create extreme wind funnels. These violent storms can level entire neighborhoods in minutes, and flying debris causes significant destruction.

• Hail storms pelt properties with ice chunks, and large hailstones dent cars, crack windows, and damage roofs. The impacts can be costly to repair.

• Wind damage is typical in many storms. It can rip off siding, break tree limbs, and knock over power lines. Even moderate winds may cause issues.

Effects of Natural Disasters on Properties

Floods soak homes and businesses, and pooling water ruins floors, walls, and belongings. Mold often grows in damp areas after flooding. It can also lead to structural damage that weakens buildings, such as cracked foundations, shifted walls, and roof damage are serious concerns. Significant water damage can cause some structures to become unsafe.

Debris cleanup is a big task after storms. Fallen trees, scattered belongings, and building materials litter properties. Removal takes time and effort. Power outages also disrupt daily life. Spoiled food, lack of heat or air conditioning, and darkness create significant hassles. Outages may last days or weeks.

Emergency Response and Initial Damage Control

After a storm hits, quick action is crucial. Our services focus on fast response times and immediate steps to protect your property and ensure safety. Our teams work around the clock to start the recovery process.

24/7 Emergency Response and Safety Measures

We offer 24/7 emergency response for storm damage, and our teams are ready day and night to help. When you call, we quickly send trained professionals to assess the situation. The priority is safety. We check for hazards like downed power lines, unstable structures, or flooding, then secure the area to prevent accidents.

Next, we remove immediate threats. This may include clearing fallen trees or large debris. We also pump out standing water to reduce further damage. Our team does a thorough inspection to spot all damage, taking photos and notes to help with insurance claims. This careful assessment guides our repair plan.

Emergency Roof Tarping and Temporary Fixes

We use emergency roof tarping to stop leaks fast, protecting your home from more water damage. Our tarps are strong and weather-resistant, and we secure them tightly to stay in place until permanent repairs can be made.

We also board up broken windows and doors. This keeps out rain and prevents break-ins. For structural damage, we use temporary supports to stabilize walls or ceilings. These quick fixes buy time for complete repairs. They keep your property safe and livable, and our goal is to minimize disruption to your daily life during restoration.

Comprehensive Damage Assessment

A thorough storm damage assessment is key to proper repairs and insurance claims. Knowing what to expect when working with professional services and insurance adjusters is important.

Professional Storm Damage Assessment Services

We recommend hiring experts for storm damage inspections. They check roofs, siding, windows, and other areas, spotting hidden issues that untrained eyes might miss. Professional assessors use special tools to find damage. They take photos and write detailed reports. This information helps with insurance claims and repair plans. 

Assessors also check for safety hazards like loose shingles or damaged electrical systems. They can advise on urgent fixes to prevent more damage.

Working with Insurance Adjusters

We often work with insurance adjusters after storms who review damage claims for insurance companies. It’s good to have a professional assessment before the adjuster visits. Our reports help back up claims, pointing out all damage to the adjuster. This may lead to a fairer payout.

We suggest being there when the adjuster checks your property. Ask questions and share your concerns. Take notes on what the adjuster says and does. If you disagree with the adjuster’s findings, you can ask for a second opinion. You can also hire a public adjuster to help with your claim.

Storm Damage Repair and Restoration Services

Storm damage repair and restoration services help fix homes and businesses after bad weather. These services clean up, fix, and rebuild damaged areas.

Repair Services for Storm-Affected Properties

Our teams patch holes, replace broken parts, and ensure homes are safe again. We also fix water damage inside buildings. For businesses, we repair damaged equipment and structures. This helps companies get back to work quickly. Additionally, we work with insurance companies to make claims easier for property owners.

Restoration Processes Post-Storm

After repairs, we restore properties to their original state, including cleaning up debris and removing water. We use special tools to dry out wet areas and prevent mold. We then repaint walls, replace flooring, and fix electrical systems to make homes and businesses look like they did before the storm. We also help salvage personal items when possible.

Throughout the process, we keep clients informed about progress, working fast to minimize disruption to daily life.

Get in touch to discuss the next steps if your property has suffered storm damage.

Homeowners insurance often protects against storm damage, and most standard policies cover damage from wind, hail, lightning, and fallen trees caused by storms.

This guide aims to help you understand what’s typically covered after a storm hits. Damage to your home’s structure, like a tree falling on the roof or shingles blown off by high winds, is usually included in your policy. Interior damage from rain entering a storm-damaged roof or window is generally covered.

However, it’s essential to know that not all storm damage is automatically covered. Storm flooding isn’t included in standard homeowners policies; separate flood insurance is often needed. We’ll break down storm coverage details to help you prepare before the next big storm.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance Coverage

Homeowners insurance protects your home and belongings from various risks. Let’s break down what a standard policy covers, how coverage is structured, and essential terms to know.

What Does a Standard Homeowners Insurance Policy Cover?

A typical homeowners policy covers damage from storms, fires, and theft, which usually includes wind and hail protection. The policy may pay for repairs if a tree falls on your roof during a storm.

Most policies also cover:

• Lightning strikes
• Tornadoes
• Ice storms

Some natural disasters, like floods and earthquakes, often need separate policies, so it’s wise to check what your policy includes and doesn’t include.

The Structure of a Homeowners Policy: Dwelling Versus Personal Property Coverage

Homeowners insurance has two main sections:

1. Dwelling coverage: This pays to fix or rebuild your house.
2. Personal property coverage: This covers your stuff inside the home.

Dwelling coverage protects the structure of your house, including the walls, roof, and floors, while personal property coverage covers things like furniture, clothes, and electronics. Some policies also offer loss-of-use coverage, which helps pay for a place to stay if you can’t live in your home after a covered event.

Coverage Limits and Deductibles: Navigating Your Policy’s Terms

Every policy has coverage limits, the maximum the insurance will pay for a claim. It’s essential to have enough coverage to rebuild your home if needed. Policies also have deductibles, which are what you pay before insurance activates. A higher deductible often means lower monthly payments.

Key terms to know:

• Premium: What you pay for insurance
• Claim: When you ask the insurance company for money after damage
• Rider: Extra coverage you can add to your policy

We suggest reviewing your policy yearly to ensure you have the right coverage.

Storm Damage and Insurance: What’s Covered?

Homeowners insurance often covers many types of storm damage, and different policies may include protection for various weather events. 

Wind Damage and Home Insurance

Wind can cause significant harm to homes, and most policies cover wind damage. 

This includes:

• Broken windows
• Damaged siding
• Fallen trees on structures

Check your policy limits, as some areas may need extra wind coverage, a common consideration in hurricane-prone regions. If wind knocks down a fence, it’s usually covered, but there might be a separate deductible for wind damage. 

Hail Damage and Roof Protection

Hail can be very destructive, especially to roofs, and standard policies generally cover hail damage. 

This includes:

• Dented or broken shingles
• Damaged gutters and downspouts
• Punctured skylights

It’s crucial to inspect your roof after a hail storm, as even minor dents can lead to leaks later. Take photos of any damage you see and get a professional assessment. If the damage is extensive, insurance may pay for a complete roof replacement.

Lightning Strikes and Power Surges

Lightning can cause fires and electrical issues, and most policies cover damage from direct lightning strikes. 

This often includes:

• Fire damage from lightning
• Damaged electrical systems
• Fried appliances

Power surges from lightning are more problematic as some policies cover surge damage; others don’t, so it’s wise to use surge protectors for valuable electronics.

Snow, Ice, and Water Damage

Winter storms can lead to various issues, and your policy will typically cover damage from snow and ice weight, including:

• Collapsed roofs
• Damaged gutters from ice dams
• Interior water damage from ice buildup

Water damage from melting snow is usually covered if it enters through a damaged roof, but flooding from groundwater isn’t typically included. Clear snow off your roof after heavy snow or ice storms, and check your attic for signs of leaks.

Exclusions and Limitations in Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance has some gaps in coverage, so let’s explore key exclusions and options for extra protection.

Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, Floods, and Hurricanes

Standard homeowners policies don’t cover earthquake damage; separate earthquake insurance is needed in high-risk areas. Flood damage is also excluded from basic policies, so consider the National Flood Insurance Program for specific flood coverage.

Hurricane coverage can be tricky because even though wind damage may be covered, there may be a higher hurricane deductible. Water damage from storm surges is treated as flooding and isn’t covered, and some coastal areas require separate windstorm insurance.

War and Nuclear Hazard Exclusions

Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover war or nuclear hazards, such as:

• Damage from bombs or missiles
• Radiation contamination
• Civil unrest or rebellion

These risks are considered too extreme for standard policies, but the government may help in these rare cases.

Additional Coverage Options and Endorsements

Extra coverage can fill gaps in your policy, and common add-ons include:

• Water backup protection
• Identity theft coverage
• Scheduled personal property for high-value items

Some insurers offer extended replacement cost coverage, providing extra funds if rebuilding costs are higher than expected. Be sure to review your policy yearly, as your needs may change, and ask your agent about endorsements that fit your situation.

Filing a Claim for Storm Damage

Act quickly when a storm damages your home and know how to file an insurance claim. We’ll guide you through assessing damage, working with your insurer, and repairing your home.

Assessing the Damage and Contacting Your Insurer

After a storm, check your property for fallen trees, debris, and signs of water intrusion. Take photos and videos of all the damage, list damaged items, and call your insurance company immediately. Many have 24/7 claim hotlines where you can provide them with basic information about the damage. Ask about your coverage and the next steps.

If your home isn’t safe, find temporary housing and keep receipts for any costs. Your policy may cover these extra living expenses. Don’t start significant repairs yet. However, take steps to prevent more damage, like covering holes in the roof.

Understanding the Claims Process

An insurance adjuster will visit to assess the damage, and they’ll review your policy and inspect your property. Be there during this visit if you can. The adjuster will estimate repair costs, and they may ask for repair quotes from contractors. You can get second opinions if these quotes are too high.

Fill out any claim forms your insurer sends, including your damage list and photos. Be honest and thorough, and know your deductible and coverage limits. Be sure to ask questions if anything is unclear.

Receiving Compensation and Managing Repairs

Once your claim is approved, you’ll receive a settlement offer, which may cover property damage, debris removal, and living expenses. If you agree with the offer, you’ll receive payment, which might be one check or several as repairs progress.

Choose reputable contractors for repairs and get written estimates and contracts. Don’t pay in full upfront, and keep receipts for all repair costs and replaced items, as your insurer may need these.

You can appeal if you disagree with the settlement, providing evidence to support your case. Standard policies cover most storm damage, but flood damage often requires separate insurance.

If a storm damaged your home, contact us to arrange an inspection and for assistance with your insurance claim.