Storm Damage After Tropical Storm Arthur:
What Homeowners Should Do Next
Hi everyone,
Last week, Southeast Louisiana was hit hard by Tropical Storm Arthur. The National Weather Service has confirmed that 14 tornadoes touched down across Louisiana and Mississippi, and many families are now dealing with roof damage, fallen trees, water intrusion, broken fences, damaged siding, and other storm-related problems.
If you have not already done so, make sure you have a copy of, or easy access to, the following important information:
Your homeowner’s insurance policy, your insurance declaration page, also known as the “dec page,” your insurance company’s name and policy number, your insurance agent’s name and phone number, and photos of your property before and after the storm.
It is also a good idea to save copies of these documents and photos on your phone so you will have them with you if you need to file a claim or speak with your insurance company.
If your home was damaged, the most important thing right now is to stay safe, document everything, and report the damage properly.
Here are the steps I recommend:
1. Make sure everyone is safe first.
Do not walk near downed power lines, damaged trees, unstable roofs, standing water, or electrical hazards. If there is an immediate emergency, call 911.
2. Take pictures and video before cleaning up.
Before you move debris or make temporary repairs, take clear photos and videos of all damage. Get close-up shots and wide shots. Include the roof, ceiling stains, water lines, broken windows, fence damage, fallen trees, damaged vehicles, flooring, furniture, appliances, and anything else affected.
3. Prevent further damage if you can do so safely.
Most insurance policies require homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. This may include tarping a roof, boarding a broken window, drying wet areas, or moving personal items away from water. Keep all receipts for materials, supplies, hotel stays, cleanup, and temporary repairs.
4. Contact your insurance company or agent as soon as possible.
Report the claim directly to your homeowner’s insurance company. Ask for your claim number, the name of the adjuster, your deductible amount, and what documents they need from you. If there was flooding from rising water, remember that standard homeowner’s insurance usually does not cover flood damage. Flood damage is normally handled through a separate flood insurance policy.
5. Submit damage information to the State of Louisiana.
Louisiana residents should also report residential or business damage at: https://damage.la.gov
This does not replace your insurance claim, but it helps state and local officials understand the full amount of damage and may help Louisiana qualify for federal assistance if thresholds are met.
6. Be careful with contractors and storm chasers.
After a storm, some people show up offering quick repairs. Do not feel pressured to sign anything on the spot. Ask for identification, proof of insurance, a written estimate, and a Louisiana contractor license number. Avoid paying large amounts upfront.
You can verify insurance and contractor-related questions through the Louisiana Department of Insurance: https://www.ldi.la.gov
Louisiana Department of Insurance Consumer Help Line: 1-800-259-5300
Keep a storm damage file.
Create a folder with your insurance policy, claim number, adjuster information, photos, videos, receipts, repair estimates, contractor invoices, hotel receipts, and notes from every phone call. Write down the date, time, name of the person you spoke with, and what they told you.
8. Know the difference between wind damage and flood damage.
Wind-driven rain, roof damage, and tornado damage may fall under your homeowner’s policy, depending on your coverage and deductible. Rising water, storm surge, and floodwater usually require flood insurance. If you are unsure, ask your insurance agent to explain exactly what is covered.
Helpful websites:
Louisiana storm damage reporting:
https://damage.la.gov Louisiana Department of Insurance:
https://www.ldi.la.gov National Flood Insurance Program:
https://www.floodsmart.gov FEMA disaster assistance, if a federal disaster is declared:
https://www.disasterassistance.gov NOLA Ready emergency information:
https://ready.nola.govEntergy outage map and storm center:
https://www.entergy.com/stormcenterAmerican Red Cross:
https://www.redcross.orgLouisiana 211 assistance and local resources:https://www.louisiana211.org
GOHSEP has Arthur-related emergency information posted. The Louisiana Department of Insurance advises homeowners to contact their insurer or agent first, keep records, and call LDI if you have policy or claim problems.
As the Law and Order Realtor, my goal is not just to help people buy and sell homes. It is also to be a trusted resource when our community is dealing with difficult situations like this.
If your home was damaged and you are wondering how it may affect your property value, future sale, insurance claim, repairs, or whether it still makes sense to buy or sell, please reach out to me. I can help you think through the real estate side of the situation and connect you with the right information so you can make a smart decision.
Stay safe, document everything, and do not wait too long to report your damage.
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