Restoring Your Property After Wind, Hail, and Rain
Living in Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley means experiencing all four seasons, each with its own unique weather challenges. From high winds in the spring to sudden, intense thunderstorms in the summer, severe weather can strike with little warning, leaving significant damage in its wake. When your property is hit, the path to recovery can seem overwhelming. Knowing the right steps to take for storm damage repair is crucial for protecting your home, your family, and your investment.
This guide provides Boise homeowners with a clear roadmap for navigating the aftermath of a storm. From immediate safety precautions to working with insurance and choosing a trusted restoration partner, we’ll cover what you need to know to bring your home back to its pre-storm condition efficiently and effectively.
First Steps After the Storm: A Homeowner’s Checklist
The moments immediately following a storm are critical. Your actions can prevent further damage and ensure a smoother restoration process. Prioritizing safety is always the first step.
1. Prioritize Safety Above All Else
Before assessing any damage, ensure the storm has fully passed and it is safe to be outdoors. Be aware of potential hazards like downed power lines, broken glass, exposed nails, or unstable tree limbs. If you suspect structural damage or smell gas, evacuate the premises immediately and contact emergency services. Do not enter any rooms with standing water until you have turned off the main power supply to avoid electrical shock.
2. Document the Damage Thoroughly
Once it’s safe, walk around your property and document everything. Use your smartphone to take extensive photos and videos of all affected areas, both inside and out. Capture wide shots to show the overall scene and close-ups of specific damages like missing shingles, dented siding, or broken windows. This visual evidence is invaluable when you file an insurance claim.
3. Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage
While waiting for professional help, take reasonable steps to mitigate further harm. This could involve covering a damaged roof with a tarp to prevent rain from getting in, or boarding up broken windows. Keep all receipts for materials you purchase for these temporary fixes, as your insurance policy may cover these costs. However, avoid making permanent or extensive repairs yourself, as this can sometimes complicate your insurance claim.
4. Contact Your Insurance Provider
Notify your insurance company about the damage as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt reporting. Having your documentation ready will help expedite the process. Your insurer will guide you on the next steps and likely send an adjuster to assess the damage.
Did You Know?
Boise’s semi-arid climate means that while the area gets less total precipitation than other regions, spring and early summer thunderstorms can be intense. Wind gusts during these storms can exceed 60 mph, which is strong enough to rip shingles from roofs and cause significant structural damage.
Common Types of Storm Damage in Boise
Boise’s weather can cause a range of problems for homeowners. Identifying the specific type of damage is the first step toward a proper repair strategy.
- Wind Damage: High winds are a frequent issue in the Treasure Valley. They can lift, curl, or completely remove shingles, leaving your roof’s underlayment exposed. Strong gusts can also damage siding, fences, and gutters. In severe cases, falling trees can cause devastating structural harm.
- Hail Damage: Hailstorms can be incredibly destructive, leaving dents on siding, roofing materials, and gutters. Even small hailstones can dislodge the protective granules on asphalt shingles, which significantly shortens the lifespan of your roof and makes it more susceptible to leaks.
- Water Damage: Intense rainfall can lead to flooding and water intrusion, especially if your roof, windows, or foundation have been compromised. Immediate water damage restoration is critical because moisture can cause structural rot and lead to hazardous mold growth in as little as 24-48 hours.
The Importance of Professional Storm Damage Restoration
While a DIY approach might seem like a way to save money, storm damage repair is complex and often hides underlying issues. Professional restoration companies have the expertise and specialized equipment to ensure a comprehensive recovery.
- Thorough Assessment: A trained expert can identify hidden damage that an untrained eye might miss, such as compromised structural integrity or moisture trapped within walls.
- Safety and Efficiency: Restoration professionals are equipped to handle hazardous situations safely. They work efficiently to secure your property and begin the repair process, which saves you time and reduces stress.
- Insurance Navigation: An experienced company like Restoration Authorities works with insurance providers every day. We can help document your claim properly and coordinate with your adjuster, ensuring the entire reconstruction process is handled smoothly.
- Preventing Long-Term Problems: Proper restoration addresses the root cause of the damage. For instance, correctly handling wind and hail damage prevents future leaks, while professional water extraction prevents the onset of mold, which can pose serious health risks.
Your Local Experts in Boise Storm Recovery
At Restoration Authorities, we’re more than just a restoration company; we’re your neighbors. Serving the Treasure Valley, we understand the specific challenges Boise homeowners face. With over 30 years of experience, we provide rapid, reliable, and comprehensive storm damage repair services, from emergency response to full reconstruction. We handle everything, ensuring your home is restored with quality and care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do I have to file an insurance claim after a storm?
Most insurance policies have a time limit for filing a claim, often within one year of the event, but this can vary. It is always best to report the damage to your insurance company as soon as you discover it to begin the process promptly.
Will my insurance premiums go up if I file a storm damage claim?
Filing a claim for damage caused by a natural event like a hailstorm or windstorm typically does not cause an individual’s rates to increase. Insurance companies base rates on risk across an entire geographic area, not on individual claims for acts of nature.
What if my insurance adjuster’s estimate is lower than the contractor’s estimate?
This is a common situation. A reputable restoration contractor like Restoration Authorities can communicate directly with your insurance adjuster, providing detailed documentation and reasoning for the repair scope and cost. Often, initial estimates miss certain details that an experienced contractor will identify, and a supplemental claim can be filed.
How can I tell if my roof has hail damage?
Hail damage can be subtle. Look for dents on gutters, downspouts, and roof vents. On asphalt shingles, you might see “bruises” or spots where the protective granules have been knocked off, exposing the black mat underneath. Since it can be unsafe and difficult to spot, it’s highly recommended to get a professional roof inspection.
What happens if you find other issues, like mold or fire hazards, during repairs?
As a full-service restoration company, we are equipped to handle any secondary damage we uncover. Whether it is mold remediation or addressing issues related to fire and smoke damage, we can integrate these services into the overall restoration plan and coordinate with your insurance company.