Severe storms can wreak havoc on homes and properties, often destroying buildings, belongings, and even lives. In the immediate aftermath, the focus is on cleaning up debris, making quick repairs, and restoring basic utilities. But the initial cleanup is only the first step in recovering from storm devastation. There are many hidden costs and long-term impacts from weather disasters that go far beyond the initial damage. Being aware of these lingering effects can help homeowners be better prepared for the full scope of storm recovery.
Major Structural Damage
One of the most significant concerns following major storm damage is the underlying structural integrity of the home or building. High winds, flooding waters, and debris impacts can severely compromise the stability and soundness of any structure. Foundations may shift or crack, walls can buckle, and rooftops get peeled away. On the surface, the basic frame may still be standing. But there could be severe structural weaknesses invisible to the naked eye. This vulnerability can lead to potential safety hazards, future collapses, or the need for major repairs down the road. Even smaller issues like window and door frames being out of alignment can cause major operational problems over time.
Getting a thorough structural engineering assessment after a storm is crucial. Professional engineers can identify points of failure, perform in-depth analyses, and determine critical repairs or reinforcements needed to restore structural integrity.
Indoor Environmental Concerns
Flooding, rain, and moisture intrusion during storms often create ideal conditions for allergen growth, mold development, and poor indoor air quality in a home. Drywall, carpet, and upholstery that get wet can appear perfectly fine at first. But damp materials are breeding grounds for mold, bacteria, and other biological contaminants in the weeks and months after a storm passes. Lingering moisture and high indoor humidity levels allow mold colonies to spread rapidly through concealed areas like wall cavities, attics, and crawlspaces. Molds release spores and mycotoxins into the air which act as respiratory irritants and allergens. This not only damages the home structure but also creates major health issues for occupants.
Remediation of extensive mold growth is expensive, invasive, and highly disruptive to daily life. The longer high moisture levels persist after a storm, the higher the contamination risk. Quickly drying out all materials, checking for hidden moisture, and maintaining proper ventilation are key to minimizing microbial growth. Air quality testing is also recommended after storms to identify any hazardous contaminants.
Increased Insurance Costs
Multiple storm damage claims on a single property can often lead to increased insurance costs down the road. Insurance providers rightfully view a home with repeated major repair needs as a higher-risk investment. Even with repairs, the susceptibility to damage remains. This results in raised premiums, dropped coverage, or even canceled policies for some high-risk properties. Homeowners may be unable to afford coverage or get denied entirely if claims are too frequent.
Having storm-resilient features like hurricane-impact windows and doors, water barriers, backup generators, and hail/fire-resistant roofing shows insurers your commitment to preventing damage. Implementing loss mitigation recommendations from insurers can also help reduce rates. Completing thorough repairs and renovations that go above minimum codes also adds value. Shopping around for insurance providers to find more competitive pricing after storms can keep coverage affordable.
Lost Income from Displacement
After extensive storm destruction, many homeowners face substantial displacement from their properties during repairs. Even with expedited reconstruction, it can take weeks or months before a home is safe and functional again. This means paying for temporary lodging in addition to mortgage payments and storm recovery costs. The inability to live in the home or operate a business at the property also results in major lost income during the displacement period.
While insurance will cover rebuilding, it does not make up for this indirect financial loss. For homeowners displaced from their primary residence, temporary housing costs may be reimbursed up to 20% of the policy limit. But there is no compensation for lost earnings. Having an emergency fund and planning for these contingent costs can offset some financial impacts. But unexpected disasters inevitably bring income interruptions.
Property Value Decline
Homes or buildings that sustain significant storm damage often see a gradual decline in property value over time. There is simply less buyer demand for a property with a history of hurricane impacts, frequent flooding events, hail damage claims, and expensive insurance premiums. Even after repairs bring the property up to pre-storm condition, residual stigmas about quality and safety bring the value down. Banks may require specialized property assessments before approving mortgages as well. And buyers will want assurances that the home’s susceptibility to damage has been reduced. Completing upgrades beyond minimum repairs, adding protective features, and thoroughly documenting all restorations made can help alleviate valuation concerns. But in general, a property that has sustained repeated storm losses faces an uphill battle to regain its former value.
Lost Memories and Keepsakes
When storms destroy homes, they also erase memories and destroy cherished belongings. Family heirlooms, photos, children’s art projects, and other irreplaceable mementos often get damaged or lost in the upheaval. The emotional toll of these losses lingers for years. Even if the structural rebuilding goes smoothly, recovering treasured items is impossible. Digitizing old family photos, videos, records, and documents can help preserve some memories if the originals are destroyed. Safely storing valuable irreplaceable items away from vulnerable areas of the home can also help protect precious belongings. But ultimately, material possessions can never be more valuable than human lives.
Emotional and Mental Health Toll
The trauma of surviving a severe storm, seeing your home destroyed, and trying to pick up the pieces afterward takes a significant toll on mental health. Post-storm stress, anxiety, grief, exhaustion, sense of loss, and depression are common long after the winds die down. The financial strain, bureaucratic battles, and continued life disruption compound emotional struggles. Mental health decline has been documented in storm survivors for years following initial recovery efforts.
Seeking professional counseling, connecting with others who went through similar experiences, taking time for self-care, and tapping into community resources can help cope with the trauma. Patience, understanding, compassion, and support from family, friends, and employers also makes a difference in long-term recovery. Prioritizing emotional well-being is just as important as physical rebuilding.
Recovering from the extensive scope of storm destruction takes enormous time, resources, expertise, and support. At Storm Damage, our disaster recovery consultants make this immense task more manageable for storm victims. We help homeowners and businesses thoroughly assess the visible and hidden costs of storm damage. Our experts coordinate structural repairs, navigate insurance claims, monitor indoor environmental risks, and develop comprehensive long-term recovery plans for your property. We know the frustrations of dealing with insurers and contractors first-hand. Let us handle the headaches while you focus on your family and future.
Contact us today to learn more about how our disaster recovery services get homes back to normal faster.
Visit our offices at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Or call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Extreme wind events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms can cause major roof damage. When wind speeds exceed 90 miles per hour, the uplift forces can lift and peel away roof coverings, allowing water to penetrate into the home. Homeowners can take preventative measures to fortify their roofs and minimize potential damage from high-velocity winds.
Inspect and Repair Roof Decking
Start by thoroughly inspecting the roof decking, which is the solid surface underneath shingles, tiles, or other roof coverings. Look for any warped, cracked, or rotted boards and replace them as needed. Use hurricane clips, and special fasteners designed to withstand high winds, when installing new decking boards. Proper installation of roof decking creates a secure base for the roof covering.
Evaluate Roof Structure
The underlying roof structure must also be capable of withstanding powerful uplift forces. Connections between rafters and roof trusses should be firmly secured with metal hurricane ties. Trusses can be reinforced with additional gussets and framing anchors. Consult with a professional roofing contractor to identify and address any vulnerabilities in the existing roof structure.
Select Wind-Resistant Roofing Materials
The type of roof covering plays a significant role in wind resistance. Asphalt shingles are a popular choice, but owners should opt for impact-resistant versions rated to withstand winds up to 130 mph. Other excellent options include standing seam metal roofing, concrete and clay tiles, and synthetic slate or shingles. Whichever materials are chosen, they should comply with local building codes for high-wind events.
Properly Install Roof Coverings
How the roofing materials are installed makes a major difference. Asphalt shingles should be nailed or stapled, not just glued down. Metal panels need solid, consistent attachment to the roof deck. Flashing should be installed wherever the roof abuts walls or vertical surfaces, using waterproof, mastic sealant to prevent uplift. Roof coverings should overlap each other vertically up the slope, so that wind cannot peel them back.
Hire a Reputable Roofing Contractor
Homeowners should not attempt roof fortification as a DIY project. Hire a professional roofing contractor experienced in meeting wind resistance standards. They will ensure the roof covering and underlying structure are sufficiently strong. The contractor may also suggest supplemental options like roof deck strapping or sealants. Always verify the contractor’s credentials, training, and certifications before letting them work on your roof.
Working with Property Loss Claims Companies After Storm Damage
If extreme winds damage your roof despite preventative efforts, contact your property insurance provider promptly. Provide detailed descriptions of the damage and save photos/videos as evidence. Ask what information is required for filing a damage claim. The insurer may send out an adjuster to inspect the roof and do a damage assessment.
Research reputable local contractors approved by your insurance provider and solicit bids for the repair work needed. Submit all documentation within the claims filing timeframe. Communicate regularly with your claims adjuster throughout the claims process. Be aware that high demand after major wind events may delay the arrival of an adjuster and scheduling of repair work.
We’re here to help you get repair estimates as well as prepare and submit your claim.
Visit our office today at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Dealing with storm damage can be challenging and stressful at many stages of the journey. Many homeowners face delays and claim denials when filing insurance claims after major storms. Properly assessing and documenting the damage is crucial to getting your claim approved. This article provides expert advice on how to thoroughly evaluate and record storm damage to your property.
As Soon as It’s Safe, Do a Walkthrough of Your Property
Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, do a thorough walkthrough of your property. Look for any signs of damage including:
Downed trees or tree limbs
Missing or damaged sections of roof
Broken windows
Collapsed walls or ceilings
Flooding
Damage to vehicles, fences, landscaping, etc.
Take photos and videos from multiple angles as you assess each area. Zoom in on any major damage. This visual evidence will be vital for your insurance claim.
Look for Both Obvious and Hidden Damage
Some damage like missing shingles or a collapsed carport may be clear. But storms can also cause hidden damage you’ll need a professional to find like:
Structural damage to the foundation or roof framing
Electrical issues from water or winds
Mold growth inside walls or under flooring
Clogged gutters/drainage issues leading to interior water damage
Don’t assume your house survived unscathed just because you don’t see major destruction. There could be severe damage behind the walls or under the flooring that an adjuster won’t find unless you point it out.
Sagging or misaligned areas that could signal structural damage
Exposed nail heads that allow water intrusion
Leaks may form days later so look for water stains on ceilings and walls too. Even a single missing shingle can eventually lead to major roof and interior water damage.
Check for Structural Damage
Strong winds, flooding, and fallen trees can all undermine the structural integrity of a home. Look for:
Cracks in foundations or separating walls
Doors/windows out of alignment indicating shifting
Leaning posts, stairs, or sloping floors
Cracks or buckling in ceilings/walls
Have an engineer thoroughly assess any questionable areas. Repairing structural damage is expensive so you want to document it early for your claim.
Examine the Exterior
Storms wreak havoc on a home’s exterior. Carefully inspect:
Siding for missing, cracked, or detached areas
Damaged entryways, railings, decks
Downed or damaged patio covers/carports
Broken gutters/downspouts leading to water intrusion
Damage to sidewalks, driveways and landscaping
Look at fencing, gates, pools, and outdoor structures too. Even small exterior damage adds up cost-wise when repairing multiple areas.
Document Interior Damage from Flooding/Wind
Storm water and winds can damage home interiors. Record any:
Drywall/insulation damage from flooding
Water stains on walls, floors or ceilings
Peeling paint or buckling floors from water saturation
Doors and windows that no longer close properly due to wind damage
Broken glass, mirrors, cabinets, and other items smashed by winds
Look for mold growth and document any musty smells. Discoloration or bubbling carpet also signals interior water damage.
Document Everything with Detailed Notes
In addition to photographs and video, you should also document your damage with written notes. For each area of the property, record details like:
Type and extent of damage (missing shingles, cracked windows, detached gutter, etc.)
The date you noticed the damage
If the damage was present before the storm
Any previous repairs done in that area
This creates a thorough record of every damaged area for insurance and contractor estimates. If there are any disputes later on about what was original storm damage, your notes will provide crucial evidence.
Contact Your Insurance Company Right Away
You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the storm passes and you’ve assessed the damage. Per your policy, you likely have a limited window of time to report a claim. Filing quickly also shows the damage happened during the storm, not after.
Provide as much documentation as you can including your damage notes, photos, and any contractor estimates you’ve acquired. Ask about getting an advance payment if you need immediate funds for emergency repairs like covering broken windows.
Work with an Independent Adjuster
Insurance companies often send out staff insurance adjusters to evaluate damage and write up estimates. But these adjusters work for the insurance company, not you. Their damage reports may downplay or omit damage to minimize what your insurer pays out.
Request an independent insurance adjuster who only works for you, the policyholder. They act as your advocate to ensure you get full and fair compensation. Research shows independent adjusters get homeowners bigger claim payments plus they take the burden of negotiating with insurance off your shoulders.
Hire Reputable Contractors for Repair Estimates
Your insurer will compare your damage estimates with ones from their own contractors when determining claim payment. To maximize your payout, get repair quotes from highly-regarded local contractors familiar with storm restoration.
Check reviews and ask neighbors for referrals. Avoid brand-new contractors who pop up after storms to scam desperate homeowners. A detailed estimate from an established contractor can justify why you need more funds to properly repair or replace your home.
Have Professionals Check Key Systems
Storms can damage systems like electrical, HVAC, and plumbing in ways you may not notice. Have professionals inspect:
The electrical system for damaged wiring or panels
Appliances for water damage or electrical shorts
AC unit and ductwork for clogs or leaks
Plumbing for broken pipes or clogged drains
Document any issues needing repair. You want to fix these before secondary damage happens if a system fails further.
Calculate Temporary Housing Costs
If your home is uninhabitable while repairs are made, your policy may cover temporary housing costs. Make sure to factor in expenses like:
Renting a similar property for the estimated repair period
Storage fees for furniture and belongings
Increased transportation costs if displaced far from your home
Hotel bills if repairs happen quickly
Save receipts and track expenses to submit for reimbursement. Not tallying these costs could leave you financially strained.
Push Back If Your Claim is Undervalued
Sadly, insurance companies often lowball storm damage claims on the first assessment. Don’t just accept a minimal payout that won’t fully cover repairs. Dispute any underestimated costs and point to your documentation like contractor estimates that show more extensive repairs are needed.
Be firm that you must be compensated for all storm-related damage based on your policy coverage. Retaining legal counsel familiar with storm insurance claims may help resolve underpayment issues so you can fully repair your home.
Seek Legal Help if Your Claim is Denied
In worst-case scenarios, insurers may attempt to fully deny a storm damage claim, alleging the issues predated the event or are excluded by your policy. Never let a claims denial go uncontested! Immediately consult with an attorney to appeal the decision and get your claim properly reopened and paid.
With legal representation, you can push back against wrongful denials and any claims handling errors made along the way. An attorney can also help you maximize the policy benefits you’re owed when the damage is catastrophic. Don’t go it alone against the insurance company’s team of lawyers if your claim has been denied. With an advocate in your corner, you have strong legal recourse.
Get Help from an Experienced Storm Damage Attorney
Dealing with insurance after a devastating storm can quickly become overwhelming. An experienced storm damage lawyer can provide invaluable help securing the maximum claim settlement you’re entitled to. If your insurance provider isn’t covering the complete cost to repair your home, contact our office today to learn about your legal rights and options.
Visit our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Or call us for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Hurricanes are destructive storms that can wreak havoc on communities in their path. The heavy rain, storm surges, high wind, and flooding can have both immediate and lingering consequences for those affected. Understanding the short-term and long-term impacts of hurricane damage can help you recover and rebuild after a storm.
Short-Term Impacts
Loss of Power and Utilities
One of the most immediate effects of a hurricane is loss of power and utilities like water and sewage systems. High winds can down power lines and flooding can damage infrastructure. This leaves many without electricity, drinking water, or working toilets in the aftermath. Temporary loss of communication networks can also occur, making it hard to call for help or check on loved ones.
Unsafe Structures and Debris
Hurricanes can damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure. Storm debris like fallen trees, ripped off roofing and siding, and broken glass are common. Structures may be unstable or completely leveled after high winds and water damage. This creates hazardous conditions for residents as well as first responders coming to provide aid after the storm.
Supply Chain Disruptions
Hurricanes often disrupt supply chains and access to necessities. Stores may be damaged, closed, or unable to restock. Blocked roads and impaired transportation systems can delay shipments of food, gasoline, and medical supplies. This lack of essential goods and services impacts recovery timelines and public health and safety.
Displacement and Housing Issues
Extensive property damage often displaces residents whose homes are uninhabitable after a hurricane. Finding temporary shelter can be challenging, especially if hotels and public facilities are also affected. Renters may struggle to find replacement housing in the aftermath as vacancy rates drop due to high demand. Housing repairs may lag depending on available contractors and building materials.
Long-Term Impacts
Rebuilding Costs and Labor Shortages
The long process of rebuilding homes, businesses, and infrastructure after hurricane damage can drag on for months or years. Construction labor shortages may occur if the storm impacted a wide area, as crews get booked up with reconstruction projects. Scarcity of resources like lumber can also increase building costs. All of this can slow and frustrate recovery plans.
Insurance Claim Delays and Underpayments
Navigating home and business insurance policies after hurricane damage takes persistence and meticulous documentation. Insurers may delay processing claims due to high volume. They may also underpay policyholders by not fully covering all qualified losses and repair costs. Long battles to get fair claim settlements can prolong recovery.
Mental Health Impacts
Coping with the trauma of surviving a hurricane, displacement, and rebuilding can take a toll on mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are common in the months after a major storm. The loss of loved ones and pets can also lead to grief responses. Counseling and mental health treatment may be necessary for some hurricane victims.
Economic Decline and Population Changes
A hurricane can depress economic activity in the impacted area if tourism, spending, and investment drop. Some residents and businesses may relocate rather than rebuild. This economic decline can result in lower property values and tax revenues, negatively affecting local government budgets. It may take years for the economy to bounce back.
Environmental Effects
Hurricanes can reshape natural habitats through powerful storm surges, erosion, and saltwater intrusion. Wetlands, beaches, and barrier islands may suffer long-term changes. Pollution resulting from damage to chemical plants, sewage systems, and hazardous waste sites can contaminate soil and water. Restoring affected ecosystems and habitats takes significant time and resources.
Hurricanes have both immediate and lasting impacts on communities in their path. Understanding the common short and long-term consequences is key to navigating the recovery process after a major storm. With preparation, resilience, and resources, communities can rebuild and heal after these devastating natural disasters.
Contact our storm damage lawyers if you need assistance with an insurance claim after hurricane damage to your property. Our attorneys have the experience to help maximize your claim settlement.
Visit our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Or call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
In the aftermath of a hurricane or tropical storm, many homeowners will find themselves dealing with extensive property damage from flooding. However, a homeowner’s insurance policy may have different levels of coverage for flood damage versus general water damage. This can lead to confusion, disputes with insurance adjusters, and insufficient payouts for repairs. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between flood damage and water damage, examine common exclusions in homeowner’s policies, and provide tips for maximizing your insurance claim.
Definitions: Flood Damage vs. Water Damage
Flood Damage
Flood damage refers specifically to property damage caused by the overflow of inland or tidal bodies of water. This includes damage from events like hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains, and storm surges. Flood damage is only covered by flood insurance policies, which must be purchased separately from standard homeowner’s insurance.
Water Damage
Water damage is a broader category referring to any damage caused by water intrusion or leakage, including burst pipes, appliance malfunctions, roof leaks, and seepage through foundations. Water damage is generally covered under a standard homeowner’s insurance policy.
Key Exclusions in Homeowner’s Policies
When reviewing your homeowner’s policy, pay close attention to exclusions related to water damage. Two important exclusions to note are:
Surface Water Exclusion – This excludes damage from water that enters through the surface of the home, such as during a flood. However, it typically covers water that comes from within the home, like burst pipes.
Anti-Concurrent Causation Clause – This states that if any part of the damage is excluded, the entire loss can be denied. So, even if wind initially caused damage which then allowed water to enter, the entire claim could be denied.
These exclusions are why separate flood insurance is crucial for full protection.
Is it Flood Damage or Water Damage? Insurance Adjusters Decide
When you file an insurance claim for hurricane, tropical storm, or other water damage, the insurance adjuster assigned to your case will determine what category the damage falls under. This will dictate what damages your homeowner’s policy will cover.
Unfortunately, insurance adjusters do not always correctly differentiate between flood damage and water damage. For example, an adjuster may attribute roof leaks or water seeping in through windows to “flood” conditions and deny covering damages. But this water intrusion was likely enabled by wind damage, not actual flooding.
How to Dispute an Insurance Adjuster’s Flood Damage Assessment
If you believe the insurance adjuster assigned to your claim has wrongly attributed damages to “flooding”, here are steps to dispute it:
Gather evidence like photos and videos documenting the damage timeline and sources.
Get a second opinion – hire an independent claims adjuster or engineer to inspect and write a report disputing the flood damage assessment.
Reference weather reports and flood zone maps – if your area did not have major flooding, use this to appeal the adjuster’s decision.
Highlight wind damage that preceded water intrusion and enabled it.
Dispute anti-concurrent causation clauses – argue that initial wind damage caused the loss and should be covered.
Threaten (and be prepared to file) a lawsuit against the insurance company for wrongfully denying your claim.
Having a lawyer advocate to the insurance company on your behalf can add credibility to the dispute process. An experienced attorney understands common tactics used by insurance adjusters and can best challenge denials.
Maximizing Your Insurance Claim Payment for Flood and Water Damage
To ensure you receive sufficient funds to repair all damages after a hurricane or tropical storm, consider the following tips:
Purchase separate flood insurance for complete coverage against flooding.
Document all damage that occurred with photos/videos with timestamps.
Point out and estimate every bit of damage, even small items like soiled carpets that need replacement.
Get multiple repair estimates to submit to your insurance company. Their initial quote may be lower than real-world repair costs.
Hire a public adjuster or appraiser to inspect damages and advocate the full claim amount you are entitled to.
Be prepared to dispute and appeal low-ball claim payments. Don’t simply accept an unsatisfactory check from your insurer.
Typical Problems Homeowners Face After Storm Damage
In addition to confusing insurance policies and claim disputes, homeowners often encounter other challenges after major storm damage:
Contractor Fraud – Dishonest contractors descend on storm-damaged areas to scam vulnerable homeowners. They may charge exorbitant prices, perform shoddy work, or take payment without completing repairs.
Contamination Issues – Flooding can cause mold growth and sewage backups that require specialized remediation. Insurers often resist covering these costs.
Permit Delays – Local permit offices get overwhelmed by repair requests after storms, causing frustrating delays before you can begin rebuilding.
Living Expenses – If your home is uninhabitable during repairs, additional living expenses are often inadequately covered or denied.
Mortgage Payments – You still need to pay your mortgage on a damaged home, even if it’s unlivable. Insurers rarely provide enough to cover months of mortgage and repairs.
An experienced attorney can help you navigate these issues and advocate for sufficient funds to cover all costs you face. Don’t let your insurer take advantage of you during this difficult time.
Call Our Lawyers Today for Help with Your Insurance Claim
Dealing with home damage and insurance claims after major storms can be an extremely frustrating process for homeowners. Understanding the differences between flood damage and water damage, exclusions in your policy, and disputing unfair claim adjustments can help you maximize your payout and get your home back in order. Partnering with a dedicated lawyer can take the claims process burden off your shoulders as well.
If you’ve suffered property damage from a hurricane, tropical storm, or other severe weather event, we can help. Our experienced legal team can handle the claims process on your behalf and ensure you receive the maximum payout you’re entitled to. Contact our attorneys today to discuss your situation and start resolving your insurance claim. Our dedicated team will fight to get you the compensation you need to repair and rebuild after a devastating storm.
Visit our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Or call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.