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Storm Damage

5 Tips to Manage Storm Damage


Over the past few months, Hanover and surrounding Pennsylvania neighborhoods have experienced several storms. While every storm system is different, some can cause significant damage to homes and properties, leaving homeowners to figure out what steps to take next. Dealing with any type of storm damage, including flooding, missing shingles, or debris can cause headaches and be a safety concern. 


Tips to Handle Storm Damage

Here are six tips on how to manage damage after a storm while keeping your family safe: 


  1. Stay safe.

The most important thing to remember after a storm is to stay safe. That means paying attention to local weather announcements and potential dangers. Once the weather has passed, look for hazards such as broken glass or exposed nails as you move around the property. If the home is not inhabitable, contact family members or local hotels for a place to stay until it is safe to return to the house.


  1. Assess the damage. 

Walk around the house and property to identify damage and areas of concern. Take detailed notes of the damage along with pictures to document the severity. If a tree or other heavy object fell on the home, contact a professional roofing company to inspect the damage. Turn off water or gas lines if either is damaged to prevent further damage to the house. 


  1. Contact your insurance agent. 

Once you know the amount of damage, you should contact your local insurance agent or carrier to file a claim. Provide them with the details of the damage including pictures. The insurance carrier will assign an adjuster to visit the property and estimate the cost of the damage. On the phone call, ask what steps you should take next to make sure the claim is processed quickly. 


  1. Mitigate the damage. 

In many instances, the home insurance policy requires homeowners to take the necessary precautions and steps to prevent further damage. If there is a hole in the side of the house or roof, that means covering it with a heavy tarp and securing it to prevent wind and water from finding its way in. 


  1. Get quotes from reputable contractors. 

Depending on the type and severity of the storm, it is not uncommon for unknown contractors to pop-up and seek out projects. These contractors, referred to as storm chasers, travel the country seeking insurance-paid projects. They often disappear after the project, and if an issue arises with the workmanship, you are left to find a new contractor. Instead, request quotes from local and reputable contractors in the area so you can be sure you have somebody to talk to in the future. 


If you are looking for an insurance agent that will guide you through these steps after a storm, contact the team at Rumbaugh Insurance today. Our team in Hanover, PA, will work with you to make sure you have the right insurance, and you never feel alone during a claim.