Key Takeaways:
- In the aftermath of a storm, safety is paramount. Document all your damage thoroughly and contact your insurer immediately to begin your insurance claim for storm damage.
- The better you understand your policy and how to file claims, the smoother your experience can be dealing with Indiana weather damage.
- Hire qualified professionals who are local for post-storm inspections and repairs. This is your best bet for addressing storm damage to your Indianapolis home.
Indiana weather is a lot of things, but predictable isn’t one of them. Epic downpours and hail-filled rainstorms show how mercurial Indiana weather often is. The aftermath of storm damage in Indianapolis may have you stressed and overwhelmed. Knowing what to do, from securing your home to starting an insurance claim for storm damage, is absolutely critical. This guide from the Strenova Exteriors team is here to break down the necessary steps to restore your home and peace of mind!
Immediate Steps After Sustaining Storm Damage in Greater Indianapolis
The first moments following a storm are crucial.
1. Ensure safety: Make sure you, your loved ones, and your neighbors are safe before taking stock of damage.
a. Look for downed power lines.
b. Do you smell gas leaks?
c. What about unstable structural elements?
d. Do you suspect any immediate danger?
e. Get out of the house and contact emergency services!
2. Stop further damage: Once it’s safe, do what you can to stop additional weather damage to your Indiana home. You might cover broken windows with plywood. Perhaps you need to clear fallen tree branches. Keep receipts for any purchases for these temporary measures; your insurer may reimburse you.
3. Document everything: The most crucial step for your storm damage insurance claim is to make a record of everything. Take extensive photos and videos of all visible damage from multiple angles, both inside and out.
You can’t be too thorough. More evidence = smoother process. Keep a record of impacts to landscaping, decks, and other exterior elements, even the ones that seem less significant. A detailed plan of action helps you (and your household) start getting things back to normal.
Understanding Your Insurance Claim for Storm Damage
Filing an insurance claim for storm damage doesn’t have to be overwhelming with the right approach:
- Contact your insurer: As soon as you’ve got the “all clear” on safety and all documentation, call your insurance company.
Report the storm damage to your Indianapolis home and ask about specific steps you need to take.
Each insurer has particulars for its claims process, and you’ll be assigned a claims adjuster.
- Review your policy: Secure a copy of your homeowner’s insurance policy and review it before the adjuster arrives.
Pay close attention to your deductible (your out-of-pocket responsibility). This is where you’ll make note of coverage limits for different types of damage (e.g., wind, hail, etc.) and what’s not covered. You’ll have a better understanding of what to expect.
Here, you can put together questions to ask either your insurance agent or the adjuster.
- Meet with the adjuster: The claims adjuster will visit to assess the storm damage in person.
Stick around for this inspection. Be prepared to provide them all documentation, including photos and videos.
This is the best time to ask questions about their assessment and what will be covered by your storm damage insurance claim.
- Seek repair estimates: Your insurance company may ask you to obtain estimates from qualified contractors. Getting multiple estimates for comparison is a good idea, but go with local expertise and quality over price.
When you’re talking about weather damage in Indiana, now is not the time to go cheap.
Repairing Storm Damage to Your Indianapolis Home
Once your insurance claim for storm damage is underway, your next step is hiring contractors to repair the home. At Strenova, we know that exterior home repairs after Indiana weather damage call for specialized skills. We have the equipment and knowledge of local building codes, putting your home on the path to proper restoration. We also:
- Safely assess hidden damage with thorough inspections
- Confirm structural integrity
- Perform repairs to the highest standards
After a storm, you may feel like a DIY approach is empowering; however, you may inadvertently cause further damage (the kind that voids warranties and compromises your home’s safety and value).
What Strenova Exteriors Brings to the Table
We’re passionate about restoring your home’s roof, gutters, siding, and other features after sustaining Indiana weather damage. Here’s what we’re working with:
- Local experts: We know how things go in Indianapolis. We’re familiar with Indianapolis storm damage and know local exterior service regulations like the back of our hand.
- Insured and licensed: You’re covered in the event of accidents or damage as we restore your home’s exterior.
- Reference and reviews: You don’t have to take our word for it. See what our past clients have had to say for yourself.
- Clear communication: Strenova Exteriors provides detailed estimates that cover the full scope of work. We’re fully transparent on the materials to be used, project schedule, and what our work will cost. We communicate often throughout the entire process.
- Experts in exteriors: Not all experience is the same. For issues like windows, roofs, and doors, you need a company with relevant and specific expertise. We understand the ins and outs of your home’s external parts.
Your insurer has a financial stake in your property. The quality and knowledge we bring to your project lead to a successful insurance claim for storm damage.
Strenova Exteriors: Your Partner in Recovery
Managing weather damage in Indiana can be challenging; however, following these steps helps you navigate the process. Once you’ve established that your home is safe, you can then thoroughly document any damage. Also, make sure you understand your insurance policy.
Now you know the most crucial first steps in filing a post-storm damage insurance claim successfully. With Strenova Exteriors as your restoration partner, you’re refusing to let Indianapolis storm damage compromise your home’s value and security.
At Strenova Exteriors, our expert contractors specialize in residential renovations. Whether you need brand-new doors or a fresh coat of paint, we stand ready with expert inspections, quality repairs, and, when necessary, top-tier replacements.
Are you a local facing the aftermath of destructive weather? Get a free estimate to assess your storm damage as part of an insurance claim, and discuss your options.