When severe weather strikes and damages your home, knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming. However, those first few hours and days after property damage are crucial. As a homeowner, you have both a responsibility and a vested interest in preventing additional damage after the initial incident. Taylor’s Roofing is here to help. Keep reading to learn what to do in these situations.
A Real-World Scenario
Let’s say a severe thunderstorm tears through your neighborhood, damaging your roof and allowing water to enter your home. Your immediate actions impact the damage’s extent and your insurance claim’s outcome.
The Critical Window
The first 24-72 hours are critical in any property damage situation. Rather than waiting for the storm to pass or for an insurance adjuster to arrive, take immediate action to prevent further damage. This might include having a professional roofing contractor install a temporary tarp to stop additional water infiltration or calling a water mitigation company to clean and dry affected areas.
Understanding Insurance Requirements
Homeowner’s insurance requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage after a loss. Failing to do so could affect your coverage and result in denied claims. For example, suppose you notice water coming in through a damaged roof and choose to wait several days before addressing it. In that case, your insurance will likely refuse to cover additional damage caused by that delay.
Essential Steps After Property Damage
Immediately after discovering property damage:
- Document everything. Take photos and videos before making repairs.
- Contact your insurance company to report the damage.
- Reach out to a trusted Florida roofing contractor.
- Remove valuable items from affected areas
- Contact water mitigation specialists if necessary.
- Keep receipts for emergency repairs and mitigation efforts.
Be Prepared Before Disaster Strikes
Don’t let disasters catch you by surprise. Keep important phone numbers handy, including those for emergency roofing services, your insurance company, and water mitigation specialists. And schedule annual roof inspections to ensure it can withstand our harsh weather.
Trust Taylor’s Roofing for Roof Repair
Don’t let a damaged roof become a catastrophe. Contact us right away to avoid further damage and ensure prompt, professional repairs. Our experienced team can help protect your home and work directly with your insurance company to ensure proper repairs are made.
