Storms that produce heavy winds, like hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms, can cause major property damage as winds rip off shingles, break windows, and destroy structures. But much of the destruction comes from wind-propelled debris crashing into buildings. Properly securing loose outdoor items before a windstorm can significantly reduce damage to your property.
Potential Windborne Debris Hazards
Many common objects can turn into dangerous projectiles in high winds. Anything sitting outside that is loose or weakly tied down poses a threat, including:
Lawn furniture like chairs, loungers, and picnic tables
Grills, propane tanks, and DIY equipment
Yard decorations and ornaments
Plant pots, flowerpots, and planter boxes
Tree branches and firewood stacks
Building supplies and leftover scrap material
Garbage cans, recycling bins, and dumpsters
Children’s play equipment like trampolines
Vehicles, boats, trailers, and covers/tarps over them
Strong winds can pick up even heavy items, hurling them large distances at high speeds. Getting struck by windborne debris is extremely dangerous to people and pets outside during windstorms. Indoors, these projectiles can smash windows, punch holes through walls, and wreak havoc once entering the building.
Securing Potential Hazards
Prevent wind damage and hazards by properly securing anything sitting loose outside well before a windstorm arrives. Consider bringing precious or valuable items inside a sturdy building to keep them from blowing away or slamming into structures. For objects left outside, follow these general guidelines:
Tie It Down
Use durable ropes, straps, or cables firmly anchored into the ground or attached to fixed structures to tie down lighter items. Things like grills, propane tanks, lawn chairs, flowerpots, and garbage/recycling bins can usually be secured this way. Make sure tie-downs won’t loosen and provide enough slack for some movement during intense gusts.
Weigh It Down
Heavier objects that can’t easily be brought inside may still shift, blow over, or slide along the ground during powerful winds. Weigh them down by placing sandbags, cinderblocks, or other extremely heavy items on or around them. Filling large planters, pots, and garbage bins with soil, rocks, or cement will make them harder to tip over or drag.
Take Down Removeable Items
For outdoor structures meant to be dismantled, like pool covers, small sheds/enclosures, temporary event tents, and screened patio systems, attempt to fully take them down if a windstorm is approaching. Removing them eliminates the chance they will be ripped apart, protecting surrounding buildings.
Clear the Yard
Do a thorough sweep for any loose debris already scattered around the yard. Place rocks, lawn decorations, tools, trash cans, children’s toys, bicycles, and anything not secured indoors or in a locked shed or garage. Even small pieces become dangerous projectiles when blown by wind.
Inspect Trees and Vegetation
Examine trees and bushes to identify dead branches or any vegetation needing pruning before extreme weather arrives. Remove unhealthy limbs that may easily snap or uproot. Also, check for loose fence planks or pickets that need repair.
Protect Windows
Install storm shutters or durable plywood coverings over all windows on structures to defend against windborne debris and flying glass shards if window glass breaks during high winds. Leave window protections up until the threat passes.
Having an emergency response plan ready to enact can ensure you properly secure hazards when high-velocity winds threaten. Protect people, pets, and property by limiting potential windborne debris before storms approach.
Get Help Assessing Storm Damage
If intense winds cause damage despite preventative efforts, contact a licensed professional service specializing in insurance claims and repair estimates, like Storm Damage. We can properly evaluate destruction and work with your insurance company, supporting fair compensation to restore your property. With an expert assessment in hand, you can feel confident reconstruction will return your home or business back to pre-storm conditions.
Visit us at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Owning a vacation home can be a wonderful way to enjoy getaways with family and friends. However, these properties can be vulnerable to damage from storms, which requires preparation and planning to properly address. This article provides tips on handling storm damage in a vacation home.
Before the Storm – Prevention and Preparation
Taking preventative measures before storm season starts can minimize potential damage. Here are some tips:
Inspect the roof, windows, doors, siding, and drainage systems. Make any needed repairs to strengthen weak spots susceptible to wind and water damage.
Trim overhanging trees and bushes to reduce falling debris.
Make sure gutters and downspouts are cleared of debris so that rain can flow freely.
Install storm shutters or plywood over windows and glass doors.
Remove loose items from the exterior like patio furniture, grills, and decorative features. Store them in a secure area like a garage or shed.
Turn off propane tanks and other gas lines.
Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies like a battery-operated radio, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food, and critical medications.
Having an emergency plan in place can also minimize headaches if a storm strikes. Know how to safely evacuate the home and identify an alternate place to stay if needed. Make sure your insurance coverage is adequate and up to date.
Upon Arrival – Initial Damage Assessment
If a storm impacts your vacation home while you are away, carefully survey the property before entering. Look for:
Downed power lines – never drive over or touch live wires. Contact the utility company.
External damage like missing roof shingles/tiles, cracked windows, detached siding. Note obvious problem areas.
Leaning or uprooted trees that may fall. Have a professional remove them.
Flooding around the exterior and in the basement or crawl space if applicable. Don’t enter flooded areas.
Take photos and videos of all damage to share with your insurance company. Do not make permanent repairs yet or disturb affected areas.
Safety First – Entering a Damaged Home
Use extreme caution upon entering a damaged vacation home, as hazards may exist. Follow these safety tips:
Wear sturdy shoes and work gloves to avoid injury from debris.
Check for structural damage and refrain from entering if the building seems unstable.
Watch for broken glass around windows and doors.
Do not turn on the main electrical breaker if water damage is present; electrical wiring may be compromised.
Avoid using open flames as gas lines may be disrupted.
Discard perishable foods that may have spoiled after an extended power loss.
Run a generator outdoors only after storm winds have died down. Ensure proper ventilation.
Use a flashlight instead of candles.
Document all damage inside with photos/video prior to cleanup for insurance claims. Contact a qualified contractor if major repairs appear necessary.
Cleanup and Repairs
Once the vacation home is safe to access, focus on these cleanup steps:
Remove all wet items and debris like broken branches and damaged furniture from the interior.
If there is flooding, remove standing water with a pump or buckets then remove soaked carpeting, padding, baseboards and insulation.
Open windows and doors to air out the home and prevent mold growth. Use dehumidifiers, fans, and air conditioning to remove lingering dampness.
Take steps to prevent further water damage like covering broken windows. Place buckets under dripping ceilings or leaking pipes.
Discard all perishable foods, cosmetics, and medicines that may have been compromised.
Inspect utilities closely before turning anything back on:
Have an electrician evaluate the electrical system and ensure no lines are submerged in water before restoring power.
Check the gas lines leading to appliances like the water heater and stove. Contact the gas company if leaks are detected before resetting.
Examine walls and floors around plumbing for moisture damage. Run faucets to check for pipe breaks.
Prioritize repairs starting with the roof and exterior to stop additional rain from entering. Be prepared to possibly replace water-damaged materials like drywall and insulation. Work with reputable local contractors if major repairs like roofing and siding work are beyond your skill level.
Insurance Claims
Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible after storm damage occurs. Provide documentation like:
Photos and video of the damage
List of damaged items
Repair estimates
Receipts for cleanup, repairs, or replacement purchases
Understand your vacation home insurance policy and what storm damage is covered. Reimbursement often depends on taking proper preventative measures like installing storm shutters. Your claim may be denied if the proper steps were not taken prior to the storm.
Most policies have a deductible amount you will pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in. Get multiple bids for big-ticket repairs, but do not start non-emergency work until approved as the insurance company may want to send an adjuster. Keep detailed records throughout the claims process.
Seek Legal Counsel if Needed
If your vacation home suffered extensive damage and your home insurance provider is refusing to pay out, consider contacting an attorney. For example, while most home insurance policies will cover damage caused by wind, you may find there are specific deductibles for hurricane damage. Flood damage is also not often included in a homeowner’s insurance policy though water damage can be as long as the wind is somehow linked to it.
Insurance policies are often designed to be ambiguous, and it can also be difficult for a homeowner to assess what caused the damage to their home, especially in the days following a hurricane or other tropical storm. Many homeowners end up paying for the restoration themselves due to not understanding what they can claim but this is not always the right decision.
Because of how confusing homeowner’s insurance policies can be, it could be worth seeking legal advice. An attorney can help you to understand the legalese included in your home insurance policy, which should help you with dealing with your policy provider and achieving a fair settlement amount for the damage caused.
If you think we can assist you, call into our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Or call us for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Storms can cause major damage to homes, especially when high winds, heavy rain, hail, or snow accumulation stress structures beyond their limits. The worse the storm, the more significant the damage is likely to be. While storm damage depends on many factors, there are several key areas of homes that tend to be impacted most frequently. Here are five common areas of storm damage in homes. If you live in an area where severe storms are frequent, it is sensible to pay particular attention to these areas.
Roofing
Roofs often sustain the most direct damage during storms. High winds can tear off shingles or shake tiles, allowing water to seep in. Large hail can dent and puncture roofing materials. Heavy snow can collapse roofs if they are not designed to handle the extra weight. Ice dams can also form along roof edges as snow melts, allowing water to back up under shingles. Storm damage to roofs requires quick repairs to prevent further destruction from water leaks. Call your insurance company as soon as you notice any storm damage, so they can send an assessor out and organize repairs.
Windows
Strong winds can break through window glass during storms, while debris blown around can also shatter windows. Leaking water can damage window frames and sills as well. Cracked or broken windows allow the elements inside, causing additional interior damage. Checking windows for any signs of damage or leaks is important after storms.
Siding
Vinyl, wood, brick or other siding materials can be damaged by high winds, debris, or heavy snow leaning on walls. Loose siding can detach and blow away. Cracks or dents in siding appear over time after impact damage. Paint and caulking may need replacing if damaged by water. Proper storm shutters can help minimize damage to exterior siding.
Trees
Falling trees or branches are a major threat during storms, capable of crashing into homes and causing severe damage. Winds uproot trees while saturated soils that can’t support the weight of top-heavy trees lead to collapse. Trees should be professionally inspected after storms to identify any dangers of collapse or dropping limbs. Damaged trees may need to be removed entirely.
Foundations
The foundations that support homes can become compromised by flooding, saturation of soils, or debris slamming into the structure. Cracks in foundations appear over time after initial damage. Porches, steps, and walkways settling at odd angles indicate foundational problems. Inspections identify any underlying supports or piers needing reinforcement after storms.
Storms can quickly cause destruction, but being aware of the most vulnerable areas of a home allows a quick response when damage occurs. Thoroughly inspecting for any storm impacts and making necessary repairs helps minimize the effects and restores the structural integrity of the home. Proper preparation and preventative measures also help reduce the level of damage suffered during extreme weather events.
If you have suffered property damage, contact our team today. We have claims consultants, attorneys, and contractors ready to help you with your insurance claim.
Visit our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Weather can be unpredictable. One minute, you’re sunbathing in the garden, and the next, you’re facing the fierce winds and torrential rain of a severe storm. The aftermath can be equally unpredictable, from broken windows to flooded basements. Understanding these issues can prepare homeowners for recovery and prevention.
The Unwelcomed Water: Flooded Basements
Water, while essential for life, can become a formidable foe when it finds its way into places it shouldn’t. Basements, being the lowest part of a house, are vulnerable to storm damage.
Causes of Basement Flooding
Heavy rainfall: Even well-constructed homes can suffer from water seepage if the downpour is persistent.
Poor drainage: Clogged gutters or improperly sloped landscapes can divert water towards your home.
Sump pump failures: These devices, designed to remove accumulated water, can malfunction or become overwhelmed.
Coping Strategies
Water removal: Using submersible pumps or wet vacuums can help remove standing water.
Drying out: Industrial fans or dehumidifiers can expedite the drying process.
Check foundations: Regularly inspect your foundation for cracks and seal any that are found.
The Unexpected Openings: Broken Windows
The saying might go ‘people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones’, but sometimes, the stones come uninvited. Broken windows are a common result of stormy weather.
Reasons Windows Break
Flying debris: High winds can toss around unsecured items, turning them into projectiles.
Pressure changes: Severe weather events, like tornadoes, can cause rapid pressure changes, shattering windows.
Aging frames: Over time, frames can weaken, making windows more susceptible to breakage.
What to Do Post-Breakage
Safety first: Wear gloves, and carefully remove large shards. Use a broom for smaller pieces.
Temporary patch: Use plywood or heavy-duty plastic to seal the opening until repairs can be made.
Assess damage: Before replacing the window, ensure structural damage isn’t the root cause.
The Road to Recovery
Dealing with the aftermath of a storm isn’t just about cleaning up; it’s also about planning ahead.
Insurances: Check your homeowner’s policy. Many cover storm damages, which can alleviate financial strains.
Professional help: Sometimes DIY isn’t enough. Consider hiring professionals for extensive damages.
Preventative measures: Think long-term. Reinforce windows, install sump pumps, and ensure your landscape directs water away from your home.
Preparing for the Next Storm
Nobody enjoys dealing with the mess after a storm, but preparation can make the aftermath more manageable and prevent certain damages. Here’s how you can armor your home against the unpredictable.
Protecting Your Beloved Basement
We’ve already mentioned flooded basements, but what about preventative steps to keep the water at bay?
Install a Backwater Valve
Function: This device prevents municipal sewage lines from backing up into your home’s outlets.
Benefits: Not only can it prevent basement flooding, but it also stops sewage from entering your home.
Elevate Appliances
Up and away: Keep appliances like washers, dryers, and heaters above potential water levels.
Use cinder blocks: This cost-effective method can lift your appliances several inches off the ground, providing an extra layer of protection.
Fortifying Windows and Doors
While broken windows are a concern, don’t forget about your doors!
Strengthening with Film
Film benefits: Safety and security films can hold shattered glass together, minimizing the risk of injury.
Easy application: These films are adhesive and can be applied to existing windows and glass doors.
Storm Shutters: Not Just for Looks
Protection in layers: Shutters offer an added layer of protection against flying debris.
Varieties: From roll-down shutters to storm panels, there’s a type to suit every home and budget.
Safeguarding the Home Exterior
Your home’s exterior can be a point of vulnerability. Here’s how to bolster its defenses.
Secure Loose Items
Potential projectiles: Unsecured items like garden tools or patio furniture can cause damage during storms.
Storage solutions: Consider investing in a sturdy shed or storage bins.
Check the Roof
Regular inspections: Schedule annual roof inspections to check for weak points or potential leaks.
Gutter maintenance: Clean gutters and downspouts ensure water flows away from your home, reducing the risk of flooding.
Landscaping as a Defense Tool
The right landscaping choices can do more than beautify your home. They can also serve as barriers against storm damage.
Plant Wisely
Tree placement: Ensure trees are planted away from the house. Falling branches can cause significant damage.
Root consideration: Some tree species have invasive root systems that can harm your home’s foundation.
Ground Coverage
Use of ground covers: Plants like creeping juniper can prevent soil erosion.
Functional and aesthetic: Well-placed plants can safeguard your home while enhancing its curb appeal.
Emergency Kits: Always Be Prepared
No matter how well you prepare your home, it’s essential to prepare your family too.
Essentials for a Storm Kit
Basic supplies: Think water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and batteries.
Medical needs: A first-aid kit, along with any essential medications.
Important documents: Keep copies of insurance policies, identification, and medical records in a waterproof container.
Communication Plan
Stay connected: Ensure all family members know how to get in touch if separated.
Safe places: Designate safe meetup points both inside and outside your home.
While the wrath of nature can be fierce and unforgiving, homeowners aren’t entirely at its mercy. By taking proactive steps – from landscaping choices to securing windows – households can reduce potential dangers and ensure the safety of their homes and loved ones. Storms might be inevitable, but with preparation, their devastating effects don’t have to be.
If you have suffered damage to your home as the result of a storm, contact Storm Damage today. With decades of experience, our team of legal professionals, claims consultants, and contractors are here to help you get the compensation you deserve. We know how important your home is, and our mission is to ensure that claims are paid out swiftly so you can repair your living space and go back to living comfortably as quickly as possible.
We’re here to help – there are no costs or obligations involved in getting a consultation. No matter what damage you’ve suffered or issues you might have encountered with your insurance company, get in touch for support and advice today.
Find us at: 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Living on the coast is something that many people only dream of. The ocean a beautiful slice of nature that can be incredibly relaxing and soothing to live nearby. But for all its beauty, the coast can also prove dangerous. Storms can be very common, and while only a fraction will be strong, that’s all it takes to create significant damage to properties. If you’re a coastal homeowner who wants to take all the steps possible to protect their properties from storm damage, here are a few steps worth taking.
Ensure Doors and Windows are Reinforced
One of the most important and basic steps to take is to reinforce all doors, windows and garage doors. Storm shutters are a great example, as well as impact-resistant windows and heavy-duty deadbolts on doors. It may seem like overkill, but should a storm occur, you’ll be glad you took the extra steps.
Regularly Inspect Your Roof
Roofs often suffer the most damage during a storm, which is why you want to maintain its condition. Do regular visual inspections of your roof looking for wear and tear, loose shingles, bare spots, buckling and more. Any issues should be repaired immediately, as they can compromise the integrity of the roof.
Don’t Leave Loose Items and Furniture Outdoors
If you know a storm is approaching, be sure to bring all loose items and furniture indoors. The wind can easily pick these items up and turn them into dangerous projectiles during the storm. If you have a shed for these items, ensure it is secure and won’t move about.
HVAC Systems Should Have Metal Tie-Down Straps
Just as outdoor furniture can become a projectile during a storm, so too can an HVAC system. There is an easy fix for this problem: simply install metal tie-down straps. This will prevent the unit from moving as long as it’s done correctly.
Cut Down Low-Hanging Branches and Those Close to Your House
Homeowners that have large trees on their property will want to be sure they stay groomed. Any low-hanging branches or those too close to the home should be cut off so as not to cause damage.
Get Professional Help – Ensure Things Go Smoothly
Whether you took the protective steps or not, unfortunately, storm damage can still occur. Storms can be incredibly powerful weather events and even with all the best protective steps, there is still no guarantee. If your property has sustained damage thanks to a storm, it can be extremely stressful and you may be wondering what steps you need to take.
We encourage you to contact us at Storm Damage to help you through the process. We are made up of claim consultants, contractors and attorneys who can provide you with valuable information and assistance to help you resolve your claim. Our website was created to act as a resource, giving you links and information to everything you may need after your home suffers from storm damage. It even provides definitions of common terms.
You can visit us in person at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
If you’d rather, you can call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Let us at Storm Damage provide you with the guidance and information you need during this trying time.