Storm Damage .....now what????????

1/14/2016 (Permalink)

Storm Damage can happen anywhere and be large or small

You have storm damage now what?

Recovery after a storm:

Just because the storm has passed does not mean that the danger is over or that all the damage that is to be done has been done.  Continued exposure to the elements can cause further damage and problems. There are some key steps you must take to get back to normal as soon as possible.

Did you know that many insurance companies have time limits on how long you can wait to file a claim? These are very specific time tables and some vary based on the type of policy or even the type of damage that has occurred. Check your policy and know your time frames and make sure when you have a loss that you call the insurance company immediately. When calling the insurance company make sure you are contacting the Claims department directly.

Another good reason to call and get the process started as soon as possible is that the longer your home & Valuables are exposed to the elements the more damage can occur.

 We here many people say that they do not call their insurance company because they are worried they will receive a rate increase. This is not the case you cannot be singled out for rate increases due to storm damage when filing an insurance claim. Remember most state laws prohibit insurance companies from cancelling policies for filing claims in an Act of God storm damage situation. In most states insurance company cannot single you out for a rate increase. If the insurance company is going to raise rates, they have to raise everyone's rates in your area. So, if you don’t file a claim, your personal rate increase will pay for everyone else's claim except for yours.

Get a restoration contractor because they have the knowledge with the your specific type of damage but they are also very adept with dealing with insurance companies and will be your best advocate. They will make sure the insurance companies pay for all damage both visible and hidden so that you do not have any major problems down the line.  

When you are hiring a contractor there are several tips we suggest. Always get more than one estimate you are not familiar with this sort of work and having multiple estimates will give you a better idea of the true scope of the work that needs to be done. Make sure you are also not basing your decision solely on price. There are many factors to take into account and since most storm damage tends to be insurance work make sure you are picking the best contractor to handle the job. Be aware of any contractor whose pricing is far below as they could be taking short cuts or using inferior products. This can lead to major repairs that may not be covered down the line.  Get a minimum of 3 estimates and make sure your entire property was inspected. This inspection should include the roof, windows, siding, AC units, screen, concrete and all exterior surfaces.

Be sure you are documenting the date of the storm itself as well as any time tables as you move through this process this will help to show you are taking proper action. Take pictures of the damage if you can do so safely. If you have any before images of how the property or items looked prior to being damaged these will help not only your contractor but proof of necessary work for the insurance company. Another good idea is to find some news articles about the storm hitting your area set aside in a folder you may need them later.

Make sure you are requesting and insurance adjuster to inspect the property. When scheduling a time for the adjuster to come out make sure you have whomever you have selected at the contractor be present for inspection. The contractor will make sure that the adjuster is noting all of the damage and that they are playing fair when giving you an estimate for the damages. Insurance adjusters work for the insurance companies and if they can find a way to deny your claim they will.

So your claim was denied!!!!!!!!! Breathe it is alright you are entitled to meet with 3 adjusters. Call and request another one. Even small damage should result in some sort of claim approval. Accepting a denial can lead to big problems down the road may be denied for improper action on the initial claim. Just like when you are selecting a contractor the rule of 3 is a good idea.

Once you have gained approval for the claim you will be issued multiple checks one of which will be in your name for the materials make sure the materials are ordered in your name as you will use this check to pay for them and then the contractor can get to work getting you back to normal.

Once the project has been started please make sure that any adjustment changes or deviations made by you or the contractor are submitted in writing and be approved by all involved.

Getting you back to like it never happened is important for you and your family; Make sure there are no headaches along the way make sure you are following the steps above. We hope this helps and remember stay safe out there.