From high winds to hail, Treasure Valley storms can be unpredictable. Here’s what to do when your property is affected.
Living in Nampa and the greater Treasure Valley means experiencing the full range of Idaho’s weather. While we enjoy four distinct seasons, the spring and summer can bring severe thunderstorms capable of causing significant damage to our homes. When high winds, hail, or heavy rain strike, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Knowing the right steps to take immediately following a storm is crucial for protecting your property from further harm and starting the path to restoration. This guide provides Nampa homeowners with a clear plan for assessing storm damage, securing their property, and navigating the repair process efficiently and safely.
First Steps After the Storm: Safety and Initial Assessment
Once the storm has passed and it is safe to do so, your first priority is to assess the situation while ensuring everyone’s safety. Storms can create hidden dangers that aren’t immediately obvious.
1. Prioritize Safety Above All Else
Before inspecting any damage, look for immediate hazards. Be cautious of downed power lines—always assume they are live and keep a safe distance. Check for the smell of gas, which could indicate a leak; if you detect one, leave the property immediately and call emergency services. Also be mindful of broken glass, exposed nails, and potential structural instability before entering your home.
2. Document Everything Thoroughly
Before moving or cleaning anything, document the damage extensively. Use your smartphone to take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, both inside and out. Capture wide shots to show the overall scene and close-ups to detail specific damages. This evidence is vital for your insurance claim. Create a written list of all damaged items and structures. The Idaho Department of Insurance recommends this as a key step in preparing your claim.
3. Mitigate Further Damage
While you shouldn’t begin permanent repairs, it’s important to take temporary measures to prevent the damage from worsening. This could involve covering a damaged roof with a tarp to prevent water from coming in, or boarding up a broken window. These temporary fixes show your insurance provider you are taking responsible steps to protect your property. Remember to keep receipts for any materials you purchase for these temporary repairs, as they are often reimbursable.
Identifying Common Types of Storm Damage in Idaho
The Treasure Valley is susceptible to various types of severe weather, each bringing its own brand of potential destruction. Knowing what to look for can help you perform a more effective inspection.
Wind Damage
Strong winds, common in Idaho spring storms, can exceed 50 mph and cause more damage reports than tornadoes. Check for missing, curled, or loosened shingles on your roof. Inspect siding for cracks or missing panels and check for damage to fences and windows. Significant wind can also break the adhesive seal on shingles, creating pathways for water to enter your home even if the damage isn’t obvious. After a storm, it’s always wise to call for a professional storm damage restoration inspection.
Hail Damage
Hail can be incredibly destructive, leaving dents and pockmarks on nearly every exterior surface. Inspect your roof for bruised or cracked shingles and significant granule loss, which may look like dark spots. You might find shingle granules collecting in your gutters. Also, check for dents in gutters, downspouts, and siding.
Water and Flood Damage
Heavy rains can lead to roof leaks and flooding, especially if your property has poor drainage or is near waterways like the Boise River. Check your attic for signs of moisture, dark stains on ceilings and walls, and musty odors. Unaddressed water damage can quickly lead to bigger problems, including structural issues and dangerous mold growth.
Navigating the Insurance and Repair Process
Once you’ve assessed the damage and secured your home, the next phase involves your insurance company and a trusted restoration contractor. This is where a professional partner can make all the difference.
Working With Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Provide them with your detailed documentation and claim number. The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the property and estimate the cost of repairs. At Restoration Authorities, we work closely with all insurance providers, ensuring transparent communication and helping you navigate the complexities of your claim to get the coverage you’re entitled to.
Choosing the Right Restoration Contractor
Hiring a reputable, experienced, and local restoration company is critical. A professional team not only performs the immediate cleanup but manages the entire restoration, from initial emergency services to complete reconstruction. This ensures that hidden issues, like moisture behind walls or compromised structural elements from fire and smoke damage that can sometimes accompany storms, are properly addressed. With over 30 years of construction and restoration experience in the Treasure Valley, we have the expertise to handle every aspect of your project.
From Restoration to a Fresh Start
Storm damage can sometimes present an unexpected opportunity. Once the necessary restoration is complete, you might consider improvements you’ve been putting off. Our expertise extends to full-scale reconstruction and remodeling, allowing you to not just restore your home, but enhance it for the future.
Facing Storm Damage in Nampa?
Don’t face the aftermath of a storm alone. The experienced team at Restoration Authorities is here to help you restore your property and your peace of mind. We offer 24/7 emergency response and work directly with your insurance to make the process as seamless as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common signs of storm damage I should look for?
The most common signs include missing or damaged roof shingles, dents in siding or gutters from hail, interior water stains on ceilings or walls, and debris accumulation. After any significant storm in Nampa, a visual inspection of your home’s exterior and attic is highly recommended.
Should I contact a restoration company or my insurance company first?
It’s a good idea to contact both promptly. A professional restoration company like Restoration Authorities can perform emergency mitigation to prevent further damage, which is often required by insurance policies. We can also help document the damage thoroughly before you file your claim, which streamlines the process. You should notify your insurer as soon as possible to get your claim started.
How long do I have to file a storm damage claim in Idaho?
Most insurance policies require you to report the damage “promptly” or within a specific timeframe, often one year. However, it’s always best to act immediately to avoid any potential disputes with your insurer and to prevent the damage from getting worse. Contacting your insurance provider right away is the safest course of action.
What if the damage doesn’t look that bad? Should I still get it inspected?
Yes. Some of the most serious storm damage isn’t immediately visible. Hail strikes can create small fractures in shingles that compromise their integrity over time, and wind can break seals without blowing shingles completely off. A professional inspection can identify these hidden issues before they lead to costly water leaks or mold problems down the road. It’s better to be safe and get a professional opinion.