After all the effort we put into ensuring our home looks stunning and comfortable, no one imagines having it ruined in the aftermath of a storm. However, with rapidly changing weather patterns due to global warming, this is a reality we might have to come to terms with eventually. People living in storm-prone areas, in particular, can know how much havoc a storm wreaks on the house. You can have entire rooms flooded, with your flooring, furniture, walls, and everything else damaged seemingly irreparably.
However, while recovery post-storms are undeniably challenging, it is by no means impossible. You can take various steps to ensure that you reverse storm damage and get your life back on track. Without adequate information, however, you might find it hard to know where to start. So, below, we’ll talk about some of the best steps to take to undo storm damage.
Hire a professional
It doesn’t matter if it isn’t your first time dealing with such a situation – the aftermath of a storm is always incredibly overwhelming. A lot can go wrong because of the storm, such as bursting pipes, electrical damage, and structural issues. Without ample knowledge, it can be challenging to foresee all these issues and prepare accordingly. If you try to handle such a situation alone, you might harm yourself and your loved ones.
Instead, working with a professional can make the job much easier and safer. A professional can immediately assess the extent of the water damage and figure out ways to tackle the situation accordingly. Water damage can occur from rainwater flooding or broken pipes due to a thunderstorm. Both types need to be handled differently. So, it’s wise to reach out to Water Damage Advisor as they’ll expertly manage any destruction caused by the storm. They will even eliminate structural and other issues stemming from a natural calamity.
Secure the perimeter
Securing the perimeter is one of the most critical tasks in the aftermath of a storm. The indoor and outdoor environment can be hazardous, and without proper cleanup and assessment, you can’t enter it. You can encounter broken electrical lines, slippery areas, broken glass, uprooted ceiling tiles, and more. You need to thoroughly assess the premises to ensure that you and your family don’t get injured.
So, before you head out, check the local news to learn whether your area is in the clear or if the storm can return. Furthermore, shut off your gas and electrical lines to ensure that you don’t put yourself at further risk. It’s also essential to steer clear of any standing water, as there might be electrical outlets that can cause electrocution. When investigating the area in the aftermath of a storm, you need to wear rubber gloves and boots to keep yourself safe.
Disinfect
Storms can pollute your home immensely, and one of the most critical chores to carry out after a storm is to clean everything and disinfect it. The wind might blow in a lot of dust and debris, which is essential to get rid of to restore your home to its original state. However, while sweeping can help you clear away dirt and debris, disinfecting after a flood is an entirely different ball game.
If you had standing water for a while, your home might be susceptible to developing mold. Mold can cause various health issues and is notoriously difficult to remove. For starters, you’ll need to dry off everything completely. Putting your furniture out in the sun can help, so can opening windows and doors to let air circulate and keep humidity at bay. However, be sure not to turn on air conditioning or fans, as it can cause the spores to spread. To prevent mold growth, you can spray your belongings with bleach and scrape off any visible spores. Professional cleaners can also help you keep mold from penetrating the house.
Document the process
Before reaching out for financial compensation, you need to put together a convincing case for your provider. It can involve carefully documenting all harm done to your interior and exterior. Take pictures of anything broken or dented. That includes any broken appliances, roof shingles, fire damage, moisture damage, destroyed doors and windows, and more.
However, it’s imperative to be careful when moving around the house, as you might encounter structural damage. Once you’ve carefully documented the process, you can start the process of filing for insurance and restoring your home. Furthermore, as you register the process, you can identify areas you can address yourself, such as repainting the house.
Stay in touch with the insurance company
The most challenging issue homeowners face in the aftermath of a storm is the financial aspect. Even minor home repairs can be incredibly costly, and many often fear they’ll never be able to get their home back to the way it used to be. It can be a drawn-out process, but applying for it can save you a great deal of hassle in the long run.
However, most insurance companies don’t offer flood insurance coverage. Suppose you haven’t separately opted for this insurance. In that case, you might have to pay for flood-related damages out of your pocket. Nonetheless, home insurance can generally cover broken pipes, windows, ceilings, and internal repairs. All of these can stack up to a hefty amount. Once you pay your deductible, you can get your insurance company to cover the rest of the amount to restore your home without any stress. But, it’s vital to keep an eye out for shady contractors. When someone shows up for repairs, be sure to verify if they’re from your insurance company.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, dealing with the aftermath of a storm can be devastating and overwhelming for homeowners. Without reliable information, you might end up making things even worse for yourself and your family. So, following these steps can get you on track to recovery and restore your home to its original state promptly. Once you’ve fixed your home, you can also work towards adding safety precautions that keep such issues from arising in the future.
Storm Damage: What Steps to Take After a Storm Damages Your House
