Assessing Damage After a Hurricane or Tropical Storm

Here we go again. Another hurricane season is upon us and it looks to be as busy as the one just past. Once you've survived the storm, it's important to assess how well your home and property fared. The task of assessing the damage could easily be overwhelming, however approaching the task from a practical standpoint will bring the job down to a much more manageable size.

Knowing what kind of information your insurance company is going to need is crucial. Well before any storm becomes a threat to your area, carefully read your homeowner's policy and talk with your agent. Understanding what your insurance will cover, and what it will not, will eliminate some stress after the storm. For example, most homeowner's policies do not automatically offer flood insurance; you have to request that it be added to your policy. Make a list of the important information the insurance company will need in assessing your damage. Keep this list with your policy so it will be easily accessible after the storm. Having videotape showing the condition of the home and its contents, the property, and automobiles and any outbuildings, before the storm will also prove invaluable once the storm has passed.

Know the difference between what needs immediate attention and what could be put off for later when evaluating damage. Downed power lines, gas leaks and broken water and sewer pipes all need to be called to the attention of the proper authorities. Leave the area immediately until the danger of leaking gas has passed. Taking normal, prudent precautions will prevent further damage from being done to your home. As soon as possible, cover roof damage with tarps to prevent rain and floodwaters from entering the home. Cover broken windows with plastic or plywood. Damage to outside walls will also need to be covered with tarps or plywood. Be sure to keep the receipts for any expenses you incur while protecting your home from further damage. Most insurance companies will reimburse you for these expenses, but only if you have the receipts.

When assessing the damage to your home, keep in mind hidden damage such as weakening of the foundation and weight bearing walls. Weight bearing walls are the four outside walls and walls inside the home that support the weight of the roof. Damage to these walls may not be easily recognized. You may require a professional to evaluate damage of this nature.

Your property may have suffered damage, as well, depending on your location. Low lying, beachfront areas may experience the storm surge and could suffer from topsoil being washed away, or more seriously, dirt being washed away from the foundation of the home. Trees and bushes are almost always casualties during a hurricane. Aside from high winds causing damage, salt water from the ocean is carried far inland during hurricanes and will cause damage to trees and shrubbery. Watch for leaves turning brown and dropping off in the weeks to come. Plants and flowers will also need careful attention after the onslaught of a hurricane. Contact your local nursery or landscaper for instructions on how to properly care for them.

Damage to storage sheds, outbuildings, and fences may be taken care of in much the same way as your home. Cover holes with tarps or plastic to prevent further damage and make note of weakened foundations or outer walls. Remember to note this damage to your insurance company also.

Being well prepared in advance of a storm, and knowing what your insurance company expects of you, will make assessing your damage a much easier task.