Florida Property Owners Guide to Wind and Storm Damage Repair

Wind and Storm Damage Repair Services in Florida

Living in Florida does come with certain trade-offs. For example, living here allows residents to enjoy miles of beautiful coastlines, warm temperatures year-round, plenty of exciting attractions, and an abundance of sunny days. But on the other side of the coin, hurricanes and severe storms are a constant threat, with high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris real risks that can cause significant damage to homes and businesses.

If you’re a property owner in Florida, then having the ability to assess and repair damage that’s caused by heavy winds and storms should be a part of your skillset. This guide will help you ensure you get on the road to recovery quickly and safely after a damaging storm event.

How to Assess Wind and Storm Damage

After a storm passes, your first step should be to assess the damage the hurricane or storm left behind. But you need to do this safely! Before stepping outside, ensure there are no immediate hazards such as downed power lines or unstable structures. Here are some of the most important things to look for:

• Roof Damage: Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or dents on metal roofs can lead to leaks. Check for water stains on ceilings and attic spaces.
• Siding and Windows: High winds can crack windows and dent or tear off siding. Inspect for broken glass and gaps that might let in water.
• Doors and Entryways: Wind pressure can damage doors and frames, making them difficult to open or close.
• Gutters and Drainage: Clogged or detached gutters can lead to water damage along the foundation and walls.
• Fencing and Landscaping: Uprooted trees, fallen branches, and damaged fences can pose safety risks.

The Immediate Steps You Need to Take When You Discover Damage

If you discover storm-related damage during your assessment, then you need to take clear photos and videos of all affected areas immediately. This evidence will be crucial when filing an insurance claim.

Next, you should temporarily repair any areas where water might get into your home. For example, you can use tarps to cover exposed areas of the roof and plywood to seal broken windows and doors. With that completed, you should move on to other tasks like removing debris, clearing gutters, and ensuring that water isn’t pooling around your home’s foundation.

Lastly, contact your insurance company and report the damage as soon as possible to start the claims process. Be prepared to provide the documentation you collected.

Tips for Choosing the Right Restoration Company

If your property needs major repairs, mold remediation, or water removal and cleanup, then you will want to work with a licensed and insured emergency services restoration company that specializes in storm damage restoration. But beware of scams! Storm chasers often show up after disasters looking to make a quick buck. To avoid this risk, get multiple quotes and avoid contractors who ask for upfront payments. The following tips will help ensure that you choose a quality restoration company:

• Verify Licensing – Check with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) to ensure that the restoration company is licensed.
• Look for Experience – Choose a contractor with a proven track record in storm damage repair.
• Ask for References – Reliable professionals are quick to provide references from previous customers.

Storm damage is an unfortunate reality for Florida property owners, but by understanding the steps you need to take, you can minimize risks and repair your home efficiently. Acting quickly after a storm is paramount to your recovery success. But remember – everything that you do needs to be done with safety first in mind.