Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make After Storm Damage (and How to Avoid Them)
Storms can cause devastating damage—missing shingles, broken windows, flooded basements, and structural issues that aren't always visible at first glance. In the rush to get back to normal, many homeowners make critical mistakes that delay recovery, reduce insurance payouts, or worsen the damage. Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid after storm damage—and what to do instead.
1. Waiting Too Long to Take Action
The Mistake:
Many homeowners wait days—or even weeks—to assess or report storm damage, especially if it seems minor at first.
Why It Hurts:
Delays give water time to seep in, mold to grow, or structural issues to spread. Worse, insurance companies may deny claims if they believe you failed to act quickly.
What to Do Instead:
Inspect your home as soon as it's safe. Look for damage to the roof, siding, windows, basement, and attic. If needed, call a restoration company immediately for a professional assessment.
2. Not Documenting the Damage Thoroughly
The Mistake:
Cleaning up too quickly without taking photos, making lists, or gathering receipts.
Why It Hurts:
Insurance adjusters need proof of the damage—and what was lost—to approve your claim. Without documentation, you could lose out on thousands in compensation.
What to Do Instead:
Take clear photos and videos of all damage, inside and out. Make a list of affected belongings, including estimated values. Keep a folder with receipts and written notes.
3. Trying to DIY Major Repairs
The Mistake:
Tackling structural repairs, electrical work, or water mitigation without professional help.
Why It Hurts:
You may miss hidden damage, worsen the problem, or void insurance coverage by not using licensed contractors.
What to Do Instead:
Handle small, immediate fixes (like tarping a roof or shutting off water), but leave the major restoration work to certified professionals.
4. Failing to Call the Insurance Company Right Away
The Mistake:
Waiting days to notify your insurance provider—or trying to fix everything before filing a claim.
Why It Hurts:
Most policies require timely reporting. If you start work without approval or an adjuster’s visit, you risk losing coverage or reimbursement.
What to Do Instead:
Call your insurance company as soon as possible after the storm. Ask about next steps and what expenses will be reimbursed before starting repairs.
5. Hiring the Wrong Contractor
The Mistake:
Choosing the first company that knocks on your door—or the cheapest one without checking reviews or certifications.
Why It Hurts:
After big storms, fly-by-night companies often appear offering fast, cheap fixes—but they may do poor work or disappear after payment.
What to Do Instead:
Hire local, licensed, and insured restoration companies with strong reputations. Ask about certifications (like IICRC), warranty policies, and response time.
In Summary
Storm recovery is stressful—but avoiding these common mistakes can protect your finances, your home, and your peace of mind. Move quickly, document everything, work with professionals, and don’t cut corners. A careful approach now prevents bigger problems later—and helps you rebuild faster, stronger, and smarter.
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