10 Steps for Homeowners After a Hurricane

Hurricanes, with their devastating impact on homes and communities, can lead to power outages, water shortages, extensive flooding, and more. As climate change progresses, these disasters are expected to worsen in frequency and intensity, resulting in higher costs for repairs and recovery. Unfortunately, the trend of homeowners moving to disaster-prone areas at a record pace may further exacerbate the situation.

If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a recent hurricane, it's crucial to initiate the recovery process promptly to prevent additional damage and restore normalcy. Whether you reside in a house in Tampa, FL, or an apartment in Corpus Christi, TX, here are the 10 critical steps you need to know after a hurricane strikes.

Step 1: Prioritize safety In the immediate aftermath of a hurricane, chaos and uncertainty may prevail. If you were advised to evacuate, only return home once authorities have given the all-clear. If you stayed in your home during the storm, wait for official confirmation that it's safe to venture outside.

Once the area is secure, focus on ensuring your safety and that of others around you. Inspect your property and surroundings for hazards like downed power lines, polluted water, or gas leaks, and promptly report them to the appropriate authorities. If your home has suffered significant damage, avoid re-entering until professionals confirm it's safe.

Step 2: Contact your insurance company After reaching a safe location, get in touch with your homeowners' insurance provider to report any damage to your property. Remember that typical homeowners' insurance policies may not cover flood damage, requiring a separate flood insurance policy, often available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Initiate the claims process as soon as possible, understanding that wait times may be lengthy during major disasters. Provide your policy number and relevant personal information when contacting the insurance company, and be patient despite the urgency of the situation.

Step 3: Document the damage For insurance purposes and the recovery process, thoroughly document the damage to your home and belongings. Use a camera or smartphone to capture clear photos and videos from various angles, covering all affected areas. This documentation should include both close-ups and wider shots to provide context.

Remember to document not only the most visibly damaged areas but also all parts of your property, including interior rooms, exterior structures, the roof, basement, garage, outdoor spaces, and more. Keeping a comprehensive record will prove invaluable when dealing with insurance companies, contractors, and remediation specialists.

Additionally, avoid discarding damaged items unless they pose immediate hazards, as you may not receive reimbursement if you do.

Step 4: Secure temporary accommodation If your home is rendered uninhabitable due to extensive damage, securing temporary accommodation for yourself and your family becomes crucial. Many homeowners' insurance policies include coverage for "Loss of Use" or "Additional Living Expenses" during covered events, which can help with the costs of temporary housing. Alternatively, local disaster relief organizations may offer temporary shelter assistance during emergencies.

Step 5: Check utility services Hurricanes often disrupt utilities such as water, electricity, and gas. Verify the status of these services in your home and report any disruptions or issues to the respective utility providers. Restoration times can vary based on the storm's severity and the extent of damage in your area. In case of gas odors or suspected leaks, evacuate immediately and inform the gas company.

Step 6: Begin clean-up and salvage efforts Once safety and insurance contacts are addressed, commence the clean-up process. Prioritize wearing protective gear to avoid injury while handling debris. Salvage salvageable items, but be cautious with waterlogged or mold-prone belongings, as they can pose health risks if not handled properly. Patience is vital during this emotionally and time-intensive process.

Step 7: Mitigate further damage To prevent additional damage to your home in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane, cover broken windows and roof holes with tarps or plywood. Your insurance company may require this as part of your policy agreement, and in some cases, they may cover the costs of these temporary fixes. Remember to document the damage before starting repairs to ensure insurance coverage.

Step 8: Hire professional help Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane can be overwhelming, so consider enlisting professional assistance to navigate the recovery process. Public adjusters can advocate for you with insurance companies to ensure fair claim settlements. Structural engineers can assess your home's integrity for hidden damage, while water and mold remediation specialists can address flooding and mold issues. Disaster recovery contractors can aid in restoring your home to pre-disaster conditions.

Step 9: Address emotional well-being Hurricanes can cause significant emotional distress, making it essential to prioritize your emotional health. Seek support from mental health professionals, counselors, or community groups that offer emotional and psychological aid. Remember, reaching out for help is a crucial step towards healing and recovery.

Step 10: Prepare for the future After experiencing a hurricane, take the opportunity to review your preparedness strategy. Ensure your insurance coverage is adequate, consider obtaining flood insurance if not already in place, and develop a comprehensive evacuation plan. Making improvements to safeguard your home from future hurricanes is essential to minimize potential damages and provide peace of mind.

In conclusion, the aftermath of a hurricane may feel overwhelming, but remember that there are resources and professionals available to assist you during this challenging time. By utilizing the right support and following proper guidelines, you can restore your home and life. Moreover, never neglect your emotional and mental well-being during and after a disaster; seek help when needed to care for yourself and your loved ones.

As the impact of climate change continues, adopting these measures becomes not only optional but essential. Being proactive and well-informed can significantly reduce the effects of future disasters and better prepare you for unforeseen events. Nonetheless, this guide should not replace professional advice or guidance. Always seek assistance from certified professionals for safety and structural integrity issues, and follow official guidance before, during, and after major weather events.

Source: Redfin