How To Handle Storm Damage Before Professional Help Arrives

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

A heavy storm, hurricane, or tornado may mean you have some serious damage to deal with, and that can be difficult if you have to tackle it by yourself. Today we are sharing some tips that will help you manage storm damages before the professionals arrive. 

SAFETY.  

• Listen to your radio or local news station to hear all the updates and advisories that will be aired for your area. Don’t go outside until instructed that it is safe to do so, and when you do venture out, make sure you stay away from downed power lines and any metal objects nearby. 
• Standing water isn’t safe to go into, so don’t wade into these areas. Damaged trees with dangling or broken limbs also need to be avoided. 
• Once you know that your own family members and loved ones are okay, be sure to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled. 
• Turn your gas off if you can smell it, and avoid using candles or any other open flames indoors. 
• Make sure your sewer system is working before using any sinks or toilets and be careful when consuming any perishable foods. If these foods have been warmed up over 40 degrees, discard. 
• Keep your pets indoors, and use leashes if they must go out. 
• Watch out for snakes and other wild creatures; they will be disturbed due to the wild weather and may be more aggressive than normal. 
• Don’t attempt to drive unless you absolutely have to, and watch out for damaged bridges and undermined roadways. 

CLEAN UP. 

• When climbing ladders, working on your damaged roof or using machinery like chainsaws to cut away tree branches, etc., use extreme caution. 
• If your roof is damaged to the point of allowing more water indoors, cover it before more rain comes into your area. Open windows and run fans if your interior has suffered water damage.

INSURANCE.

• Make sure you document all the damage to your home by video or photographs and compile the most complete list possible of all damaged items before you clean up.  
• Your homeowner’s insurance policy should be read thoroughly so that you know what is and what is not covered before you ever contact the company. If you have trouble getting in touch with them, use any means available, such as phone, email, fax, and even letters. 

CALLING PROFESSIONALS.

• For the bigger jobs, it is probably going to be necessary to call a professional restoration company. 
• Check with your insurance representative before hiring a contractor, and avoid those companies that go door-to-door after a storm to drum up business.
• Contact your local homebuilder’s association to obtain recommendations for reputable contractors. 
• Get more than one written bid, and make sure you understand what each bid includes. Be patient with reputable contractors after a storm, as they may be overwhelmed with projects. They will get to you as soon as possible!

If your home and property have suffered damage from storms or other extreme weather and you decide you need the help of some professionals, the team here at SERVPRO of Hermitage/Donelson is here to help! We have the skills, experience, and tools necessary to get you back to normal as soon as possible.