Oh no.
The thunderstorm that rolled through your city caused an extensive amount of damage to your home. Your siding has pockmarks from the hail and the wind did a number on your roof.
What is a homeowner to do if they notice roof damage? Keep reading to find out.
- Assess the Damage
Before you can assess your home for damage, you need to ensure the storm has blown over. If you see anything that could become a safety concern like downed power lines, stay inside and call 911.
Stay aware of potential hazards around your home and on your roof. If there is structural damage from the storm, your roof could be unstable.
You may need to wait until daylight to do a full inspection if it’s nighttime.
Once you know it’s safe, walk around the perimeter of your property to visually assess it. Be on the lookout for signs of damage such as missing shingles or exposed plywood. Use binoculars if necessary.
- Make Temporary Fixes
If it was a storm that wreaked havoc on your home, chances are other homeowners are in the same boat. It may take a few days for a contractor to make it out to assess your property. If this is the case, you’ll need to make temporary fixes to minimize further damage.
Around 37% of American homeowners report suffering losses in their homes from water damage. Don’t become a part of this statistic.
Place buckets under any leaks and remove all valuables from the area. Use a tarp to stop the leak or roofing cement to patch the roof. Silicone or rubber sealant coating can also provide a barrier to stop the leak.
Do not go onto your roof if there is any sign of structural damage.
- Contact the Right People
One of the first things you’ll need to do after suffering a damaged roof is contacting your insurance company. They will send someone to determine if the damage is bad enough to warrant a claim. They might suggest it would be more economical for you to hire a contractor for your roof repair. If there is a need for stucco repair Charleston SC homeowners should contact a siding company that focuses on stucco repairs.
You might find it best to use your home insurance if the storm was widespread and damaging. Contractors can get very busy after storms.
Sometimes insurance companies are hard to deal with if they decline claims and refuse to pay for your damages. You might consider hiring the professionals at amenityroofing.com in this situation. They are public adjusters and residential roofers so they can help with every aspect of your claim.
If you choose to hire a contractor, don’t pick the first one you find. You should research the company and read reviews before hiring them.
Avoid contractors who travel to your area because of the storm. They may try to compete for your business and offer handsome incentives. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Fix Your Roof Damage Fast
Time is of the essence when it comes to roof damage. Address the problems as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Keep reading our blogs for more helpful tips for homeowners.
