During our mitigation work over the past few days, we've come across many questions from homeowners. Here are some steps to take during the storm repair process. This list applies mostly to those who have had significant structural damage from trees falling on their home. As a general rule, your insurance company expects you to do everything reasonable to preserve your property from further damage.
 
Take plenty of pictures for your insurance company!

-Stay SAFE! Freezing weather this weekend may further weaken your roof structure and frozen water expands and contracts. Be careful each time you enter your home.

-Contact your insurance company to report your claim. They will send an adjuster as soon as they are able.

-Have trees removed that have fallen on your home. Trees in the yard should not be a priority at this moment unless they block your vehicle or access.

-Protect your home from further water intrusion by covering holes in the roof with tarps.

-Protect your valuables. Items such as jewelry, firearms, family heirlooms, etc. should be immediately secured.

-Protect your remaining contents. Any wet items, especially those of significant value, should be taken offsite and dried. Our warehouse is available, you may bring the items to us or we will pick them up.

-Remove and dispose of food items from your refrigerator (and take pictures)

-Hire a contractor and mitigation firm right away.

-Discuss a storage plan with your mitigation firm. Your insurance company will pay to have contents removed from your home in preparation for reconstruction.

-This will also include long-term storage of furniture and other items you will not need during reconstruction.

-Items such as clothes and personal belongings should be transferred to your temporary housing.

-Discuss a drying plan with your mitigation firm. This may first include removal of wet structural items such as insulation and sheetrock. Powered drying with dehumidifiers and fans may be significantly delayed due to power outages. Our main goal is to prevent accumulation of mold on your structure and contents.

-Discuss a reconstruction plan with your contractor, including a timeline and scope of work.

-Finally, be patient!

Many contractors will come from out of the area to help. Be sure to ask for references, certifications, and appropriate licenses. Choose any mitigation companies or contractors with care, knowing that the choice is up to you-the homeowner.
 
We encourage you to send this email to any family or friends affected by the storm. Please call our office with any questions at 229-883-1202.