SERVPRO of Bryan, Effingham, Mcintosh, East Liberty Counties is here to provide you with a rapid response. Contact us if you have any storm damage.

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Alert? Be Financially Prepared | SERVPRO® of Bryan, Effingham, McIntosh and East Liberty Counties

Lightening crashes. Water creeps under your garage door. You have to stay in a motel. And that’s just the first day.

For many people, storm damage can be extremely expensive. In fact, storms hit Americans for about $34 billion in losses every year.

As you scramble to protect or recover possessions, find a missing pet, or even seek out a place to stay, you also need to recover financially from the damage. Careful planning can help you do just that.

Planning Ahead

Check Your Coverage. United Policyholders, a nonprofit group dedicated to informing and advocating for insurance policyholders, advises everyone to take a close look at their insurance policy. Make sure you know exactly what kinds and sources of damage are covered—and fill in any gaps.

Perform Due Diligence. Maintain your property. Always make sure your gutters are clean. Keep your roof in good condition. Take care of any problems as they occur, as insurance often will not cover existing damage or wear and tear.

Moving Forward

First Things. After a storm, get your family to safety. Then check your house for hazards, such as downed power lines or standing water. If you need help finding a place to stay, making urgent repairs or even getting a hot meal, call your local FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Assistance) office.

Make Detailed Records. As you prepare your claim, take plenty of pictures and make notes of every detail, from mold to missing shingles.

File Wisely. Before you file, look at your deductible. If it’s going to raise your rate, you may not want to file a claim that’s smaller than your deductible. If you do choose to file, be persistent and precise in your claim, and keep careful records of your conversations with your insurance company. With dedication, you should soon have your claim met and your property in tip-top shape again!

We have many years of experience working with insurance companies to get claims processed. If you experience storm damage, contact us at any hour for quick assistance.