Well, it happened. The storm that the meteorologists predicted actually came to pass, and your house has been damaged. You stood at your window, unable to do anything as hail, wind and debris struck your home.

Now that the skies have cleared, it’s time to take action. You may not have been able to do anything about the storm, but you can certainly be in control of what happens next. Filing for an insurance claim after a storm can be stressful. The following are some tips from our experts about what to do to ensure your peace of mind.

Assess the Damage

The first step after a major storm hits your home is to assess the situation and document, document, document. A storm damage restoration expert is a useful resource–hire one to inspect your roof, siding, and windows. Be sure to take plenty of pictures and write down the date, time, and duration of the storm–you will need this information to properly file your insurance claim. Don’t delay! Many insurance companies have a deadline by which you’ll need to file a claim, so time is of the essence.

Prevent Additional Damage

Even before you hire a contractor, it may be necessary to perform some spot repairs to ensure that your home does not sustain additional damage. If there are holes in your roof, a cheap plastic tarp is a worthwhile investment while you wait for the claim process to play out. Purchasing some lumber to cover a broken window will help your home remain secure. Be sure to keep your receipts! Often, your insurance policy will cover minor expenses for temporary repairs.

Be Prepared for Paperwork

Even if you hire a storm damage restoration specialist, your insurance company will likely send an agent to check the damage for themselves. Prepare for the visit with the documentation mentioned above – pictures, storm information, and receipts. There are likely multiple homes in your area that were hit by the same storm, so be patient as they investigate. In addition, try your best to document your conversations with your insurance company in writing – otherwise, you may be stuck with an interpretation of the agreement that doesn’t match your own.

Hire a Reliable Contractor

Be wary if a contractor shows up at your door right after a storm, offering their services at a minimal cost and pressuring you to sign. Some of these contractors may be reputable, but it is always best to check reviews and obtain multiple quotes to find the best contractor for your repairs. Once you decide on a contractor, be sure to understand the terms, conditions and pricing before you sign on the dotted line. A contractor with excellent reviews that will patiently explain the process and answer your questions will give you peace of mind as your home is repaired.

Here at CMR Construction & Roofing, our experts are specifically trained to detect storm damage and prepare damage reports to present to your insurance company. We’ll even meet your adjuster to show them the damage, free of charge. If your home is hit by a storm, please give us a call!