Unexpected storms are becoming more and more common in many parts of the US. After a major storm, assessing the damage to your home and property can be overwhelming. Knowing how to conduct a comprehensive survey and being aware of what to look out for will allow you to get your home looking as good as new in no time. Here are some guidelines that can help you to assess the condition of your home after a storm.
Inspect Your Roof
Roofs often bear the brunt of bad weather, so the first step is to inspect your roof and scan for visible signs of damage. Missing or damaged shingles are a clear indication that your roof needs repair. Broken shingles can allow water to seep into the roof deck and cause damage to the underlying structure. A sagging or uneven roofline is a more serious alert that your roof may need help. This can be caused by damage to the roof deck or supports. Stand in your attic and look up—if you can see daylight through the roof, there is a major issue. Once you find obvious damage to your roof, hire a professional roofer Rock Hill SC to make repairs as soon as possible to avoid the problem leading to further damage.
Check for Water Damage
Water damage can be the most serious type of damage after a storm. Examine the walls, ceilings, and floors for any signs of water damage. Check the flooring for any changes in texture or color as well as any warping, buckling, or soft spots. On the walls and ceilings, there may be water stains, cracks, or peeling paint. If you notice mold growth in rooms that do not typically have moisture such as bedrooms, chances are there is water damage somewhere. Even if there are no visible signs, water damage can cause a damp or musty odor. To be certain, you can use a moisture meter to detect hidden pockets of moisture in walls, ceilings, or floors and find the source of the moisture or leak.
Look for Electrical Damage
Storms can also cause electrical damage to your home’s wiring or appliances. Begin by inspecting all your home’s electrical outlets and switches. Check your electrical panel for damage, such as melted wires or blown fuses, and look out for any cracks or discoloration. If your circuit breakers trip frequently after the storm or do not reset properly, this can be a sign of issues in the electrical system. Another telltale sign is flickering lights. If you notice that your lights flicker or dim periodically, it is an indication that there is an issue with your electrical system such as a loose connection or water damage. A burning odor or sparks from your outlets or switches should be treated as an emergency. Turn off power to the affected area and contact a professional electrician immediately to assess the damage.
Examine Your HVAC System
Examine your HVAC system’s outdoor unit for any debris such as fallen branches. Damage such as dents or bent fins can impair system performance. Also, inspect the refrigerant lines that connect the outdoor and indoor units for signs of damage and check if the system’s air filter needs to be replaced. Test that the thermostat is working properly—you can do this by setting the thermostat to a temperature lower than the current room temperature and observing if the system turns on and off as it should. If you are unable to check the HVAC unit yourself, keep an ear out to listen for any unusual sounds such as rattling or whistling from your ducts or vents. These could be signs of a mechanical issue with the system and are a clear signal to call in the professionals.
Assess Tree Damage
Storms can cause significant damage to trees, which can be a hazard to the safety of your home and its occupants. Check for any leaning or uprooted trees as well as any broken or hanging branches. Always prioritize safety when assessing tree damage and do not attempt to remove large branches or trees on your own. The best idea is to call a tree removal service to assess the risk and decide whether the tree should be removed. While you are up there, check for any damage to your gutters or downspouts, such as dents, cracks, or loose connections. Make sure they are clear of any debris or leaves, and that water is flowing freely through them. If your gutters or downspouts are damaged, it can lead to water damage to your home’s foundation and basement.
Contact Your Insurance Company
You should contact your insurance company immediately after a storm, even if you are unsure about the extent of the damage. The claims process can take some time, so it pays to start early. It is critical to document any damage you find. Take plenty of photographs and videos from various angles of the damaged areas and include any identifying features such as street signs or house numbers. These photos can be used to demonstrate the extent of the damage and support your insurance claim. If possible, submit photographs of your home before the storm as well. Ideally, you should not start making repairs without documenting the damage and receiving approval from your insurance company.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your home is safe and comfortable for you and your family.