Find out what happens to hurricane-damaged properties and what steps to take to assess, repair, and claim insurance.

When a hurricane hits a region, the impact can leave a trail of significant destruction, affecting both people and property. Property owners in hurricane-affected areas often face a great deal of uncertainty about what happens after their homes or commercial properties are damaged. In this article, we explore the steps to take after a hurricane hits, how to assess damage, and what to do about insurance companies to begin the repair or replacement process.

1. Assessing Damage

The first thing you should do after a hurricane is to conduct an initial assessment of the damage to your property. It's important to proceed with caution, as the structure may be weakened. In general, the following things should be checked:

• **Roofs**: Check for blown-off or damaged shingles or roof parts.
• **Windows**: Check for cracks or damage to windows, or for water seeping into the property.
• **Exterior Walls**: Check for cracks or loosening of exterior walls.
• **Electricals**: Do not handle loose or exposed wires; Instead, contact an electrician to conduct a safe assessment.

Also, document all damage with photos or videos to have a visual record that will be useful in the insurance claim.

2. Contact your insurance company

Once you have assessed the damage, the next step is to contact your insurance company. It is crucial to report as soon as possible so that the claim process can begin. Provide the visual documentation you collected and be sure to ask about the following:

• **Policy Coverage**: Check to see if your insurance policy covers damage caused by hurricanes, as some policies may exclude certain types of damage (such as flooding) unless you have additional coverage.
• **Deductible**: Ask what deductible you'll need to pay before the company will cover repair costs.
• **Estimated Time**: Ask how long it will take to process your claim and when an adjuster will be able to visit your property to assess the damage.

3. Preventing Further Damage

While you're waiting for the adjuster's visit, it's important to prevent the damage from getting worse. If it's safe to do so, cover broken roofs or windows with tarps or plastic to prevent further water leaks. However, avoid making major repairs until the adjuster has documented the current condition of the property.

4. Repairs and Rebuilding

After your claim has been approved, you can begin the process of repairing or rebuilding the property. Make sure you hire contractors who are licensed and experienced in repairing hurricane-damaged property, as these professionals will better understand the unique challenges these types of damage present. It's also wise to get multiple quotes to ensure you receive a fair price for repair work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does my insurance cover if my property is damaged by a hurricane?

It will depend on your policy. Property insurance typically covers wind damage, but may not include flood damage unless you have a specific policy for it. Check with your insurance agent for details.

What should I do if the damage is severe?

If the damage is severe, such as collapsed structures or extensive flooding, you should evacuate and contact your insurance company immediately. Do not attempt to make repairs on your own until an adjuster has assessed the situation.

How can I prevent future damage?

You can reduce the risk of future damage by strengthening the structure of your property. Some options include installing hurricane-proof windows and doors, improving roof shoring, and securing the perimeter against flooding.