When severe weather strikes, your peace of mind is our priority. Understand the essential steps for securing your property and starting the recovery process.
Severe weather can be unpredictable, leaving a trail of destruction that feels overwhelming for any homeowner. From high winds and hail to heavy rains, storms in Eagle, Idaho can cause significant damage to your property. Knowing what to do immediately following a storm is crucial for protecting your family, preventing further damage, and ensuring a smooth restoration process. This guide provides a clear path forward, helping you take control after a storm and begin the journey of getting your home back to normal.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Storm Passes
The moments after a storm are critical. Your first priority is always safety. Once the storm subsides and it’s safe to move around, you can begin to assess the situation and take protective measures.
1. Prioritize Safety Above All Else
Before inspecting any damage, ensure the area is safe. Look for downed power lines, which should always be treated as live, and be cautious of gas leaks or structural damage that could make your home unstable. If you have any doubts about your safety, it’s best to leave the property and call for professional help.
2. Document the Damage Thoroughly
Before you move anything or begin cleaning up, document the extent of the damage. Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, both inside and out. Capture wide shots to show the scope of the damage and close-ups of specific issues like broken windows, missing shingles, or water stains. This documentation is vital for your insurance claim.
3. Mitigate Further Damage with Temporary Repairs
While waiting for professionals, take reasonable steps to prevent the situation from worsening. This might involve placing tarps over a damaged roof to stop leaks or boarding up broken windows to secure your home from the elements and potential intruders. These temporary measures, often called emergency board-ups or tarping, are crucial and often required by insurance policies. Keep receipts for any materials you purchase for these fixes.
Understanding Common Types of Storm Damage in Idaho
The Treasure Valley’s weather can produce a variety of storm-related issues. Being able to identify them is the first step toward a proper repair strategy.
Wind Damage
Strong winds can lift and remove shingles, hurl debris at your siding and windows, and even topple trees onto your home. After a windstorm, it’s important to inspect your roof, siding, and gutters for any signs of damage.
Hail Damage
Hail can leave dents in your roofing, siding, and gutters, and can shatter windows. This type of damage isn’t always obvious from the ground, which is why a professional storm damage restoration assessment is so important.
Water Damage
Whether from heavy rain, flooding, or roof leaks caused by wind or hail, water intrusion is a serious threat. It can compromise your home’s structure and lead to mold growth if not addressed immediately. Quick water extraction and drying are essential to prevent long-term problems.
Did You Know?
According to the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms in Ada County can produce wind gusts of up to 60 mph and penny-sized hail, which is more than enough to cause damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Taking proactive measures and having a plan can make a significant difference in your recovery.
Navigating the Insurance Claims Process
Dealing with insurance can be one of the most stressful parts of storm recovery. Having an experienced restoration partner can simplify the process immensely.
Contact Your Insurance Company Promptly: Notify your provider as soon as you’ve assessed the damage. They will assign you a claim number and guide you on the next steps.
Work with Your Adjuster: The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the property. It’s beneficial to have your professional restoration contractor present during this visit to ensure all damage is properly identified and documented.
Understand Your Policy: Knowing what your homeowner’s insurance covers is key. Most policies cover storm damage, but the specifics can vary. A professional restoration company works directly with insurance providers to streamline communication and ensure all covered repairs are included.
The Restoration Authorities Process: From Cleanup to Rebuild
Recovering from a storm is more than just cleaning up; it’s about rebuilding your home and your life. At Restoration Authorities, we handle every phase of the process, ensuring a seamless transition from disaster to full recovery.
Phase 1: Emergency Response & Mitigation
Our rapid response team is available 24/7 to secure your property. We handle emergency board-ups, roof tarping, and immediate water extraction to prevent further damage. Once the property is secure, we begin the cleanup process, removing debris and addressing any contamination from fire or smoke if necessary.
Phase 2: Full Reconstruction & Remodeling
After the initial cleanup, our expertise in construction takes over. We don’t just patch the damage; we provide full reconstruction services to restore your home to its pre-storm condition, or even better. Whether it’s repairing a roof, replacing siding, or a complete interior remodel, we manage the entire project with quality craftsmanship.
Don’t Face Storm Damage Alone
If your Eagle home has been affected by a storm, the experienced team at Restoration Authorities is here to help. With over 30 years of experience, we manage the entire restoration process from emergency response to final rebuild, working directly with your insurance company.
Frequently Asked Questions About Storm Damage
How long do I have to file an insurance claim after a storm in Idaho?
In Idaho, you generally have up to five years from the date of the loss to file a breach of contract action, but it’s crucial to report the damage to your insurer as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt notification to begin the claims process.
Should I hire a contractor before or after calling my insurance company?
It can be very beneficial to have a trusted restoration contractor inspect the damage before you file a claim. A professional assessment can help ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the damage, which can be valuable when the insurance adjuster conducts their inspection.
What if I find hidden damage after the initial claim is settled?
If additional, storm-related damage is discovered during repairs, a professional restoration company can help you file a supplemental claim with your insurance provider. They can provide the necessary documentation to show the newly discovered damage is tied to the original event.
What happens if the water damage from a storm leads to mold?
Water damage can lead to mold growth in as little as 24-48 hours. A comprehensive storm damage restoration service includes identifying and addressing any potential mold issues. If you suspect mold, it is crucial to seek professional mold remediation to ensure it is safely and completely removed.