6 Simple Ways to Assess Total Damage after a Storm

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm hits your property, it can be difficult to assess the total damage. You want to know what needs repairing and how much it will cost you. The following is a list of 6 simple ways that you can assess the damage from a storm:

1) Check for structural integrity

Does your building have any cracks in the foundation or leaking pipes? If so, then there may be more extensive repairs needed. It is very important to check the damage to the structure for timely repairs and restoration. If you don’t check the building for any damages then it can create a very dangerous living environment.

2) Check for water damage

Look around your house at all of the wet surfaces and make sure that no mold has grown anywhere yet. If you see any signs of mold growth, then this could lead to further complications or health effects.

3) Take pictures

One of the most important steps in assessing a storm's damage is to take pictures. It will help with getting insurance claims and also reminds you of what needs repairing or replaced.

4) Check for Damages to the Doors and Windows

Are your windows loose or cracked? How about your doors, are they damaged too? Take a special look at the glass windows. Sometimes even the protective wooden panels aren’t enough to save the windows from breaking.

5) Check the Utilities, Gas lines and Electricity Lines

If you smell gas, turn off your appliances and open doors and windows. Get outside immediately! If there is a power outage or the electricity lines have been damaged then this will need to be addressed as soon as possible so that they do not catch fire. It can also cause serious damage to any electronic devices in your home which you may want to address quickly before more problems arise down the road.

6) Take an Inspection Round outside Your House

Inspect things outside the house including your car, trees, lawn and most importantly your house's roof. Roof of a house is the most vulnerable thing during a storm. Strong storms can break off shingles and expose your roof to a lot of serious damage. You may need to replace your roof if it is very damaged. If you find any tree that is in a bad condition and may fall down any minute then you need to get away from the house and call a tree maintenance company as soon as possible.

It is very important to assess the total damage after a storm. There are many things that you can do at home before calling in an expert. By taking pictures, checking for water damage and structural integrity, as well as assessing the damages to doors and windows you will be able to figure out what needs repaired quickly. Then call up someone with experience when it comes time for more extensive repairs!