When a severe storm hits, the damage can be catastrophic. Not only can it destroy your home, but it can also cause emotional distress. These two difficulties combine to make repairs and restoration even more complicated for homeowners.
However, time is of the essence when you are dealing with water damage, structural damage, broken windows, and more. It is important that you act quickly once the storm has passed so that you can prevent further storm damage to your home. It’s also imperative that you restore your home so that you can stay safe.
Many homeowners feel overwhelmed by the process of restoring their houses. The emotions of seeing their home destroyed can make it challenging to stay on task. Often, they don’t even know what to do after storm damage.
Fortunately, Tandem Contracting has seen our fair share of storm damage, and we’ve worked with several homeowners to restore their houses with insurance claims. The following are the steps we recommend that you take after a storm damages your NJ home.
Make Sure You Are Safe and Alert
First and foremost, storm damage of all types and severity can be dangerous. Whether you are dealing with broken glass or flood damage, you need to prioritize your safety. You must look for any exposed hardware, standing water, collapsed ceilings, and electrical issues. On the outside of the home, you need to look out for down power lines, and we also recommend checking your gas lines.
Even after inspecting for any signs of danger, you need to remain alert if you are in or around the home. As the elements take their toll on the structure, things can shift and change. Keep an eye out for roofing materials that may fall off, other trees that could drop onto your home, and any other hidden dangers.
Assess Damage and Take Photos
Once you ensure the safety of yourself and your family, it’s time to start assessing the extent and type of damage to your home. It’s important that you understand your home’s storm damage before you get in contact with your insurance agent. This step will help you save time because they will ask several questions.
It’s also a good idea to take photos while you go through the house. These photos help to document the interior and exterior damage so that you can be fully compensated. The following are just a few of the signs of damage you should look for as you assess your home:
- Missing, Broken, Dented Singles
- Holes or Leaks in Roof
- Missing or Damaged Siding
- Broken Windows
- Damaged Doors
- Standing Water in Basement or Crawl Space
- Water Damage to Furniture, Flooring, and Walls
- Fire Damage from Electrical Issues Caused by the Storm
Contact Your Homeowners Insurance Agent
Next on the list of what to do after storm damage in New Jersey is to contact your insurance agent. You will want to let them know that a storm damaged your home, and at this point, you should discuss the damage your insurance policy will cover. Most policies don’t cover flood damage, so if you live in an area that is prone to flooding, we recommend investing in flood insurance before it happens.
While you discuss your policy and storm damage, you should also provide your agent with photos. Any other relevant documentation you send can help expedite your insurance claims process. After contacting your insurance company, your agent will arrange for an adjuster to inspect your home in person.
Prevent Additional Damage
The process to restore your home has just begun, and it’s a long road once you begin an insurance claim. For that reason, you need to take steps to stop any further damage from happening. Windows, roofs, and any other holes that could leave your home susceptible to the elements should be covered immediately. You can use plywood or tarps as long as it keeps your home protected.
We also recommend that you stay out of the home if possible when damage is very severe. Not only is your safety at risk, but the house is also in danger of being damaged further. It may be wise to book a hotel for the night or find somewhere else to stay until your home is deemed safe again.
Choose a Storm Damage Repair Contractor
Finally, you need to find a trusted contractor to assist you with your storm damage repair in New Jersey. In some cases, you might find yourself needing a water damage restoration specialist. However, a general contractor can usually get the job done.
When you start your search for contractors, you should request quotes so that you can use them to help with filing a claim. Price shouldn’t be your only determining factor, though. It’s critical that you hire an honest and reliable contractor that you can trust. Poor restoration services can cost you more time and money. In worst-case scenarios, they could even put your health and safety at risk.
If you want to make the process simple and stress-free, we recommend that you work with full-service contractors. The best team will handle all communication with your insurance company to make sure you get the repairs covered.
Find Storm Damage Restoration Services in New Jersey
Luckily, NJ homeowners don’t have to look far to find a contractor to help with their storm damage restoration. As mentioned, Tandem Contractors has plenty of experience, so we know exactly what to do after storm damage strikes your home. In fact, our highly trained professionals are here to effectively restore your home so that you can get back to your normal life as soon as possible.
Call us right away to request an inspection of your home. At this meeting, we can provide you with an accurate quote and discuss the insurance claims process. You can also get in contact with our storm damage experts by filling out our online form.
