As the weather becomes increasingly unpredictable, protecting your home against storm damage is crucial for both safety and financial well-being. Here’s a short guide on how to protect your home and navigate the process of making a claim on your home insurance in case of storm-related incidents.
Carry out a home checkup Regularly inspect your home’s exterior for vulnerable points that could be compromised during a storm. Check for loose roof tiles and weak points in doors and windows. Reinforce or repair these areas to reduce the risk of water infiltration and structural damage.
Secure outdoor items Before a storm hits, secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose items. Flying debris can cause significant damage to your home, so stow away or anchor anything that could become a projectile during high winds.
Trim trees and branches Trim overhanging branches and remove dead or weak trees near your home. This prevents them from becoming hazardous during a storm, reducing the risk of falling limbs damaging your property.
Reinforce garage doors Garage doors are often vulnerable during storms. Strengthen them or, if possible, replace them with a wind-resistant model. This can prevent significant structural damage to your home.
Making a home insurance claim Despite all precautions, storms can still cause damage. If you need to make a claim on your home insurance, follow these steps:
1. Document the damage As soon as it’s safe to do so, document the storm damage by taking photographs and making a list of affected areas and items. This documentation will be crucial when filing your insurance claim.
2. Contact your insurance company promptly Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with a detailed description of the damage and follow their instructions for filing a claim. Many insurance companies now allow you to initiate claims online or through a mobile app.
3. Obtain repair estimates Get repair estimates from licensed contractors to submit along with your claim. Ensure these estimates are comprehensive, covering all aspects of the damage. Your insurance adjuster may also assess the damage and provide their own estimate.
4. Cooperate fully with the claims adjuster When the insurance adjuster visits your property, be cooperative and provide any necessary documentation or additional information they may request. This will help expedite the claims process.
5. Keep records of expenses Keep detailed records of all expenses related to temporary repairs and accommodations, as these may be reimbursed by your insurance company. Maintain receipts and invoices for transparency during the claims process.
