It is crucial to select a proper insurance plan in case that you live in an area with higher chances of natural disasters. The main risks in many states in the US and Canada are related to storms, wildfires, and tornadoes. The central parts of the United States have the highest risks when it comes to tornadoes, and more powerful ones could create serious damage to your house.
As we already mentioned, the most important thing is to choose a proper insurance plan so it can cover all of the expenses for the damage made by a tornado or hurricane. The main issue is that if you miss adding some details into a contract, it could lead to additional expenses while your policy won’t cover everything. Also, you will need to hire licensed public adjusters who are experts in determining the amount of money required as part of the coverage.
Besides that, it is essential to have a proper cover in the basement or somewhere in the backyard. Stronger tornadoes could cause serious damage to the environment, which means that installing a safe shelter is a must. You don’t need to worry about the damage made when you have proper insurance. Here are the most important things to do after tornado damage your house.
1. Check the Condition
The first thing to do after the weather is stable again is to check the levels of damage made on your property. Be cautious when you are walking around the lawn since there might be pieces of metal and glass, and you could face injuries. Moreover, check out the electric installation and condition of walls before you enter the house. In case that you notice some issues, always contact 911 to send professionals that will secure the site.
2. Evaluate the Damage
While it is important to call the insurer after the disaster, you should first get around the property and check the damage by yourself. Also, we suggest you take pictures of the site, which you can later send to professionals to save some time in the process of claiming the coverage. Also, if you are not sure how to determine the levels of damage in the right way, you can always hire a professional who will create a detailed report.
You will need a detailed analysis of each aspect of your property. When you are checking the roof, look for broken parts, holes, leaks, and other problems. Also, check the whole construction by starting from the base. See if there are any issues with water and other installations, walls, windows, and more.
3. Contact the Agency
When you are sure that everyone is safe and you checked the condition of your house, you will need to call the agency where you are paying for the insurance. As we already mentioned, you will need to create a detailed report about the damage made to your property and provide it to the insurance company.
It is very important to take photos of the scene so you can avoid false claims that you might be moving some things or tried to make more damage to get more money from the insurance. When you are paying for the proper model of insurance, they will cover all expenses, including the bills for the hotel in case that you had to stay there until the house is fixed.
4. Start With Repair as Fast as You Can
The main problem with this kind of damages is that it could get worse over time. For example, if a pillar in the walls is damaged, it could fall if you don’t immediately start fixing it. That will create even bigger issues and more expenses.
In that matter, try to find a reliable service in your area who can quickly come to your address and start with repairs. When it comes to insurance, this process will require some time. Therefore, you can provide the bills of the service you hired to fix your home, so you don’t need to worry about the compensation.
5. Focus on Finding the Right Service
Like when you are planning some project, whether it is the construction of a house, garage, or pool, it is always important to focus on finding a reliable company who can deliver the best work in the shortest time. The same is with these repairs as well. You can expect that there are specialized services if you live in an area with an increased danger of tornadoes. Therefore, it is always a good idea to have contact of some well-known contractor on your phone.
6. Hire Public Adjuster
As we already mentioned, the process of claiming compensation for the disaster might take some time. Also, you should know that details and proofs are crucial so the agency will provide you with full compensation. Missing details will lead to a lower amount of money that might not cover all of your expenses. The best way to avoid such issues is to hire a public adjuster. This person will determine the real situation of your property and provide the report to the insurance company. It is a great way to protect both clients and insurers from false claims.
Last Words
There is a wide selection of agencies and models of insurances that you can buy today. It is always a good idea to have different types of these policies since accidents and issues are always possible. That is especially a case if you live in an area with increased chances to face natural disasters. Also, be sure to learn more about the process and focus on reporting everything right after the accident.
The day after a tornado hits your house, first thing is to make sure that everyone is safe. After that, check the condition and report the damage along with pictures as proof. Also, you should call a public adjuster to confirm the damage, and then you can start with repairs. Previous reports will help you to make the process with the insurance company much faster and effective.
