Storm Damage: 5 Home Repairs You May Need After a Natural Disaster

If your home has been struck by a natural disaster, then the first thing you need to do is call your insurance company. Then, make sure that you stop any damage from getting worse. You may have to think about repairing your home in five different areas.

Utilities

Before you enter the home make sure that there are no loose hot wires hanging down around the home’s exterior. Then, smell for natural gas. If you notice either one of these, then do not enter the home until utility companies give you the OK. Once it is safe to enter the home, start at the main circuit box and work your way through the home looking for frayed or wet wires. Check the pipes inside and under the house.

Foundation

You need to look for any signs of cracking in your home’s foundation after a natural disaster. In addition, make sure that the home is still sitting properly on the foundation. Once it is safe to enter the home, open and shut doors to make sure they operate properly. If they do not, then you may have foundation damage. Finally, make sure that all water has drained away from your home’s foundation and that the gutters are not overflowing.

Roof

Start by assessing the damage from the outside to determine if it is safe to enter the home. Use tarps to cover any holes that you find. After talking to your insurance adjuster, consider replacing your current roof with a metal one as they often hold up better in a natural disaster. If you already have a metal roof, you still may have to do a metal roof repair. If you cannot do the work yourself, then be very careful about who you hire. Check references before agreeing to any work.

Windows

Make sure to check the windows in your home for cracks or missing pieces. You can install plywood to stop weather from entering the home before your adjuster arrives. Once you are given permission, consider replacing your current windows with energy-efficient ones if they have been damaged.

Walls

If any of your walls are wet, then you will need to remove the outside covering and the drywall. Leaving wet drywall behind can cause mold in your home. If you have wall damage to your home, then consider how you would like the new interior to look. A natural disaster can actually be a great time to do the remodeling project that you have been putting off.

Following these steps will help get your home back in order. Remember to always think about safety first because the home is a piece of property that can be replaced.