If you think your property has been compromised, the only way to really tell is to do a basic check-up from ground-level safety.
Initial Basic Check
Any raised or missing shingles? You might even find some in your yard. Inspect gutters and downspouts for dents and see if any pieces of the roof have been washed down. The best time to look for dents in gutters is typically at dawn or dusk when the shadows help you highlight the damages.
Large dents can be seen at any time of day. You may walk several times around your house to find enough damage.
Hail and windstorms are often directional, so one side may be damaged while the other three sides look perfectly fine.
If you have an attic or a crawlspace, it’s a good idea to check the area for water leaking or peeks of sunlight coming through.
A detailed inspection of your roof from top to bottom will give you the best view of storm damage. For better results, it should be performed by an expert and even better a public adjuster that is in your side.
Continue with Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are vulnerable to strong windstorms and flying objects of debris. Observe all of your windows and doors from both sides. Check for cracks, holes, broken panes, and frame damage. If you have shutters, awnings, window caps, or cladding, do it several times.
Cladding is regularly made from thin aluminum and is easily dented by the hits of hail. And is one of the first places where you would see more evidence of hail damage.
Check for Siding and Exterior Damage
The exterior of your home is durable, but storm damage can still happen to siding, shingles — even bricks and cement boards. Keep an eye out for the following signs of storm damage on your siding:
Cracking signs
Chipping signs
Visual Dents
Make sure to do it at different times during the day, to see if light allows you to see damage more clearly.
Air Conditioner Damage Signs
If you have an air conditioner or window unit, don’t forget to give them a good review, too. Look for evidence that hail or debris may have been left behind. Air conditioner fins and coils can be vulnerable, too.
Checking Structures That Could Be Damaged.
If you have other structures covered by your homeowner's insurance, you’ll want to look to see if they have been damaged. Other structures could include a detached garage, fence, sheds, and even your mailbox.
Use the same inspection methods to search for dents, loose windows, doors, or fence posts. If you have a similar roof on your detached garage or shed as your home, it’s equally at risk.
What to Do If You Have Storm Damage
You’ve inspected every area of your home — suppose you’ve found some storm damage. Now what? Here are the things you should do first:
Contact your insurance company
One of the easiest ways to file a claim with your insurance company is by going to their website or calling the phone number listed on your declaration page of the insurance policy. If you don’t have this information, contact your agent, They will definitely be able to help you.
You can always give us a call directly. We can help you.
CALL NOW (352) 234-5690
We’ll work the best we can and provide the professional help you need to get your house back to normal.
Keep in mind your insurance company might want to have an adjuster look at your property to help them assess the damage. It all depends on the situation and whether they need additional information.
Finding contractors
Getting to a trustworthy contractor is challenging, but your public adjuster can provide a wealth of knowledge to achieve the best solution for your particular situation. Be aware if someone comes to your door after a storm offering to assist you in making a claim or making repairs. Storms will bring scammers to your area, which is why it’s always a great idea to use someone who comes recommended by someone that had a good experience with that contractor or your public adjuster.
Do not rush to sign any contracts without reading the fine print. We are here to help, and we can look over your contracts and give you the best advice at no cost.
Do not fall for the old gimmick, "the insurance company will pay for everything". You must understand exactly what it is you are signing. Furthermore, a contractor is not a licensed adjuster to handle your claim therefore they should not be managing or handling your claim. That’s why we’re here. We can work side by side with your contractor of choice.
If you find a contractor that you would like to use as your designated contractor make sure that you run a license check in the state of Florida to make sure they’re all current and up to date.
Before signing on the dotted line: Click on the following link to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
It’s a common practice to pay some money in advance for the purchase of supplies. But do so with your eyes open to any red flags. Be wary about paying the entire amount before the work even begins. If possible, withhold a percentage of the total due until the job is completed, in case something goes wrong. If an inspection is required, have an agreement with your contractor in writing that you will pay the balance when the work has passed the final inspection.
Understanding your homeowner's insurance policy.
It is crucial to understand your duties after a loss as dictated by your policy. Our team of expert Public Adjusters can help you navigate through the entire claim process.
Understanding your deductibles:
Most policies have an All perils deductible which is typically in the range of $500-$1000 on older policies and most newer policies Have a standard deductible of $2500.
This deductible covers All damages to your property except for hurricane.
Hurricane deductibles are typically a percentage Ranging from 2% to 5% of your total dwelling coverage. These deductibles are listed on the declaration page of your policy.
Ready to File a Storm Damage Claim?
The most important thing in any storm is your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Once the storm has left, then it’s time to assess any damages safely and with the help of your public adjuster.
Be sure to reach out to your Lone Wolf Insurance Adjusters agent for any further questions. They’ll be happy to walk you through the process and help you get on the road to recovery.