Storms can strike unexpectedly, leaving behind significant damage to your home. From roof leaks to fallen trees and flooding, the aftermath of a storm can be overwhelming. Taking the right steps immediately after storm damage is crucial to ensure your safety, protect your property, and secure the compensation you deserve from your insurance provider.
If you live in Pittsburgh, PA, or nearby areas in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, or Maryland, this guide will walk you through the essential actions to take after storm damage and explain how A H Neaman Company can help you maximize your insurance claim.
1. Ensure Safety First
Storm damage often leaves behind hazards like downed power lines, broken glass, and unstable structures. Before doing anything else:
- Inspect for Immediate Dangers: Look for loose debris, water intrusion, and structural instability.
- Turn Off Utilities: If water or electrical damage is present, shut off utilities to prevent further risks.
- Evacuate If Necessary: If your home is unsafe, prioritize your family’s safety and find temporary shelter.
2. Document the Damage
Comprehensive documentation is critical for your insurance claim. Before cleaning up, take the following steps:
- Photograph and Video Evidence: Capture detailed photos and videos of all visible damage, including the roof, walls, windows, and personal belongings.
- List Damaged Items: Create an inventory of damaged possessions, noting their value and purchase dates.
- Save Receipts: If you need temporary repairs or accommodations, save all receipts as proof of additional expenses.
Accurate documentation strengthens your claim and ensures you’re fairly compensated.
3. Prevent Further Damage
Insurance policies require homeowners to mitigate further damage to their property. After documenting the storm damage:
- Cover Roof Leaks: Use tarps or plastic sheeting to cover holes in the roof or broken windows.
- Remove Debris Safely: Clear away any hazardous debris, but avoid making permanent repairs until the insurance adjuster has assessed the damage.
- Dry Out Water Damage: Use fans or dehumidifiers to prevent mold growth if water has entered your home.
4. Contact Your Insurance Provider
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. When making your initial call:
- Provide a brief description of the damage.
- Confirm your policy details, including coverage for storm-related damages.
- Request a timeline for when the insurance adjuster will inspect your home.
5. Understand Your Policy Coverage
Storm damage coverage varies by policy. Key things to review include:
- Covered Perils: Verify that your policy covers the type of storm damage (e.g., wind, hail, or flooding).
- Deductibles: Be aware of the deductible amount you’ll need to pay before receiving compensation.
- Exclusions: Understand any exclusions, such as damage caused by wear and tear or uncovered perils like flood damage (unless you have a separate flood insurance policy).
6. Consult a Public Insurance Adjuster
Storm damage claims can be complex, and insurance companies may not always offer a fair settlement. This is where a public insurance adjuster like A H Neaman Company can make a significant difference.
How a Public Adjuster Can Help:
- Policy Expertise: We’ll thoroughly review your insurance policy to identify all applicable coverages.
- Damage Assessment: Our team conducts a detailed inspection to document every aspect of the damage, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
- Claim Preparation: We compile the necessary evidence, including photos, repair estimates, and receipts, to build a strong claim.
- Fair Settlement Negotiation: We advocate for you during negotiations, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Handling storm damage claims alone can be overwhelming, but with A H Neaman Company on your side, you can focus on recovering while we handle the complexities of your claim.
7. Hire Reputable Contractors for Repairs
Once your claim is approved, hire experienced and licensed contractors to repair the damage. Look for contractors who:
- Provide written estimates.
- Are licensed and insured.
- Have positive reviews or references.
Avoid working with “storm chasers” or unlicensed individuals offering quick fixes, as this can lead to subpar repairs and further complications.
8. Monitor the Claim Process
Stay in regular contact with your insurance company or public adjuster to ensure your claim progresses smoothly. Keep copies of all correspondence and follow up if there are delays.
Why Choose A H Neaman Company?
At A H Neaman Company, we specialize in helping homeowners recover after storm damage. Our licensed public insurance adjusters are dedicated to maximizing your claim, ensuring you receive fair compensation to repair and restore your home.
Serving Pittsburgh, PA, and Beyond
We proudly serve clients in Pittsburgh, PA, as well as West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Whether you’re dealing with roof damage, flooding, or fallen trees, we have the expertise and experience to guide you through the claim process with confidence.
Real-Life Example
Helping a Homeowner Recover After a Severe Storm
A family in Pittsburgh suffered significant storm damage when high winds tore off parts of their roof, causing water to flood their attic. Their insurance company’s initial settlement offer didn’t cover the full cost of repairs.
When they turned to A H Neaman Company, our public adjusters conducted a detailed inspection, compiled additional evidence, and successfully negotiated a settlement that fully covered their repair expenses.
Don’t Navigate Storm Damage Alone
Storm damage can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face it alone. Let A H Neaman Company handle the insurance process for you.
