April showers can bring more than May flowers. Stronger storms can generate heavy amounts of rain. The most severe storms include powerful winds can lead to major damage and heavy rainfall can cause flooding.
When severe weather hits, it can cause storm damage that needs to be repaired with flood restoration in Springfield Missouri. Knowing what to do and what to avoid doing after the storm is crucial.
Prepare for Insurance Claims
Take steps to prepare for any insurance claims before throwing away anything. Take plenty of photos of the storm damage to provide to the insurance company.
In most cases, your insurance company will cover repairs from storm damage. There are exclusions, so it’s always a good idea to understand what your homeowners policy actually covers before you need it.
Flooding is generally not covered under standard homeowners insurance and it requires separate flood insurance.
Storm Damage Restoration
Storm damage restoration may be needed after a severe storm. Be safe when looking around your house for any damage. Stay away from power lines that are down and any standing water that could be electrically charged.
For the plumbing, check the pipes inside and outside your home. Close the water valves to toilets and sinks or shut off all water to your home temporarily.
If there is sewage backing up into your home, it’s likely caused by a damaged sewer line, so avoid using sinks and toilets before those repairs are completed.
Check the roof from the ground to see if there is any major damage. Have a professional inspect the roof, as they can make sure it’s done safely. They can also do a temporary fix to prevent water from entering your house until it can be fully restored.
Disconnect any appliances that have been exposed to water and have them serviced. Checked for frayed wires or sparks. If there are exposed wires, keep the power off until an electrician arrives.
Avoid metal fences until power lines are repaired. If a limb or tree has fallen on a power line, turn off the power and alert the electric company.
Deal With The Flooding
It’s always best to call a professional flood restoration company when flooding occurs. Flood restoration includes removing any standing water, getting out as much water and moisture as possible, and removing anything absorbent that has been contaminated.
Air movers and humidifiers are used to dry out the wet areas and then everything is cleaned and disinfected. Some things will need to be thrown out, so remember to take photos for insurance claims before doing this.
Checking Vehicles
If there are any vehicles damaged in the storm, notify your insurance company. Cover any broken windows if it’s possible to save the vehicle and list anything in the vehicle that has been damaged by the storm.
Watch Out For Scams
Storm chasers and scams are prevalent after heavy storms, so only work with local or known contractors. Don’t pay until the work is completely done. Avoid high-pressure sales tactics and always obtain a written estimate before any work begins. When donating for disaster relief, only give to known and trusted organizations.
If you ever experience water damage from spring storms, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration right away. They can do the water damage restoration job right.