Tornado Victim Safety
The recent storm in Nashville has caused severe damages to homes and businesses.
Most people have never dealt with an insurance claim before and there are few things that should be done immediately as well as a few things to avoid.
Contact Your Agent
Your agent has experience and the knowledge to help you through this event. They will have contacts and will be a crucial resource throughout this catastrophe.
Secure a Trusted Contractor
Contractors and restoration experts will be overwhelmed in the next few days. If you have damage contact them immediately. They will start turning customers away and placing victims on waiting lists. The sooner you reach out to them the quicker they will be to respond. When searching for a contractor keep key points in mind.
- Look to your peers for recommendations.
- Check with the BBB for rating and customer reviews.
- Check them on Google. Are they reviewed? Physical address? Photos?
- Licensed with the IICRC and a certified firm.
- Research your choice as much as possible they will be working on your most valued possessions.
Storm Chasers
Avoid companies that specialize in roofing and “storm damage”. These companies are often associated with hail damage but will appear when any large weather event occurs. After performing initial repairs, they quickly move on to the next town or city looking for the next storm. Any warranty or problems with the workmanship will not be honored and you may not even be able to contact them.
Secure a Time Frame with Your Contractor
As contractors become overwhelmed with new projects, many will want to take advantage of the opportunity to sign up more and more work. These contractors will quickly exceed their capacity to perform quality and efficient work. Customers will be left with no work being done on their properties and become frustrated. Make sure you have a strict timeline for repairs and hold your contractor accountable to the timeline. If they cannot do this for you they are already in over their head and will not be a good fit for the project.
Avoid the Damaged Property
If your home or business sustained structural damage, STAY OUT. There could be live electrical exposed, risk of falling debris, or other severe dangers that you are not equipped to face. Your home should be assessed by a professional for safety as well as best practices to prevent further damage. Protect your home and your valuables by calling the professionals in the industry. If you or anyone you know experienced damages feel free to share this post or contact us for consultation on the claims process.
