A sudden, severe storm can have a devastating effect on your home that may require extensive repairs. Taking the proper filing steps after a storm will help you get reimbursed through your homeowners insurance policy. Use the following guide to get the best outcome from a bad situation.

What to Do When a Storm Damages Your Home

1. Take Safety Precautions

Assess how safe your home is. Fallen power lines, flooding, smoking remains from a fire, and mold are all safety risks. If any of these hazards are present after a storm, do not try to stay in your home. Contact a friend or rent a hotel room so that you have somewhere safe to stay.

If you aren’t sure about the structure’s safety, contact an emergency inspector to take a look. Do not try to climb through damage to retrieve items. This could pose a danger to your health and well-being.

2. Photograph Damage

Your homeowners insurance policy will cover damaged property and personal possessions, and you’ll need to show photos of the destruction to your insurance provider. Take pictures of holes in the home, collapsed tree limbs, broken windows, and damaged roofing.

If an inspector has deemed your home safe to enter, document evidence from a fire or signs of flood and water damage. Photograph any high-value items that were damaged, including TVs, valuable paintings, heirlooms, or electronics. Start making a list of the items’ assumed values so you can share this information with your insurance provider.

Make sure to take photos and collect medical bills if a family member is injured during the storm.

3. File an Insurance Claim & Home Inspection

Start the reimbursement process by filing a claim with your homeowners insurance provider. They’ll assess the damage based on the evidence and organize compensation once you’ve met the deductible.

Schedule an inspection with a contractor so they can estimate the cost of repairs. Let your carrier know if you’re staying in a hotel, as well. Insurance plans will usually cover the cost of temporary lodging until you can safely return to your home.

There’s no replacement for the peace of mind homeowners insurance provides. Advantage Insurers is proud to provide the residents of Demorest, GA, with a large selection of coverage policies. Their agents will walk you through life insurance, auto plans, property and home insurance, and liability insurance policies to ensure you’re fully covered. Call (706) 754-1590 to schedule a consultation, and visit their website to learn more about their team.