If your house was damaged during Hurricane Michael, you might be wondering what steps to take next. Hurricane damages often result in the need for costly repairs, but using the five steps below will help to ensure the repair process is a little bit easier.
1. Take photos of the damage as soon as it is safe to do so. Take pictures from multiple angles and viewpoints in order to thoroughly document the damage. Take the photographs before cleaning up or making any emergency repairs. This will help to provide proof for the insurance claim and prevent contractors or claims adjusters from exaggerating or minimizing the damage.
2. Only repair what is necessary to prevent further damage and ensure safety. After taking photos, you may need to perform some emergency repairs such as taping up broken windows with plastic or covering your roof with a tarp.
However, do not throw away broken items or make extensive repairs. The insurance adjuster will need to see the entirety of the damage in order to best determine the cost of repair for the damage and move through the claims process smoother.
3. File an insurance claim as soon as you can. Some insurance companies work on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it’s best to file a claim as soon as possible since many other claims will be filed in the area as well. Be sure to thoroughly describe the extent of the damage, send the pictures you took, and provide an inventory list of all your damaged property.
Ask your insurance company about the type of coverage you have so that you can be prepared for any damages that may not be covered under your insurance policy. Also, remember that damage from flooding will require a separate claim with your flood insurance company.
4. Make sure a reputable contractor does the repair work. Sometimes, your insurance company will give you a list of contractors they recommend to do the repair work, which is a good start to finding a well-rated contractor. You can also ask for the insurer to guarantee the contractor’s work in writing so that you aren’t required to pay a second deductible if the initial repairs turn out to be deficient.
Remember, you can always select your own contractor if you are not satisfied with the ones provided by your insurance company. However, do an internet search to read reviews about the contractors and see what types of experiences other customers have had before making any calls.
5. Apply for assistance if you need financial help. Sometimes, people need extra assistance due to costly uninsured damages. The Federal Government does have some programs to provide financial assistance for damages, such as flooding when no flood insurance is in place. You can check your eligibility and apply at DisasterAssistance.gov. Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration offers disaster loan programs to eligible homeowners, renters, and small businesses.
It takes time to recover from a hurricane. If you are planning to buy or sell a home, hurricane damages can create a number of issues. Luckily, most problems can be overcome by taking the proper steps. If you are considering buying or selling, make sure to work with a trusted real estate agent who can help you prepare your home before, during and after a hurricane.
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