Experiencing the aftermath of a hurricane can be overwhelming for homeowners and renters alike. Returning to a damaged property brings a mix of emotions—from relief to anxiety—as you assess the impact of wind, flooding, and storm surge on your home. Knowing the right steps to take immediately after the storm can make all the difference in protecting your safety, safeguarding your property, and navigating the insurance claims process smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do when returning to your hurricane-damaged property. Whether you’re dealing with structural damage, water intrusion, or fallen trees, following these steps will help ensure your recovery is as stress-free as possible. We’ll cover everything from documenting damage and understanding your insurance policy to making temporary repairs and avoiding common mistakes. With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to get back on your feet after a storm, ensuring that both your home and your peace of mind are restored.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap to follow, helping you avoid unnecessary delays or setbacks with your insurance claim. Whether it’s your first time dealing with hurricane damage or you’ve been through it before, this guide offers practical advice that will prove invaluable in your recovery process.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
This comprehensive article is longer than our usual posts, designed to provide you with all the essential information you may need. Below, you’ll find a list of sections covered in the article—simply click on any section to jump straight to that part.
Prioritize Safety Before Entering Your Property
Your safety should always come first when returning to a hurricane-damaged property. While it may be tempting to rush in and assess the damage, taking a moment to ensure your surroundings are safe can prevent accidents and further harm. Here’s what you need to do before stepping foot inside:
Check for Official Clearance
Wait until local authorities declare your neighborhood safe to re-enter. Returning too early can expose you to hazards like downed power lines, unstable structures, or hazardous materials. Stay tuned to official sources, such as local government websites, social media, or emergency services, for updates on when it’s safe to return.
Access the Surroundings
Before entering, take a quick survey of your property’s exterior:
- Look for downed power lines: These are extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Do not approach or touch them, and report them to your utility company immediately.
- Beware of standing water: Floodwaters may be contaminated with chemicals, sewage, or other dangerous substances. Additionally, standing water near electrical outlets or appliances could pose a risk of electrocution.
- Check for gas leaks: If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the area immediately and contact your gas provider or emergency services.
Inspect for Structural Damage
Look for obvious signs of structural damage like collapsed roofs, broken windows, or leaning walls. If the building looks unstable, it’s best not to enter. Call a professional, such as a structural engineer or building inspector, to assess the safety of the property before going inside.
Wear Protective Gear
When entering your home, equip yourself with the following:
- Sturdy boots: These will protect your feet from sharp debris, nails, or glass.
- Gloves: Wear heavy-duty gloves to avoid cuts, scrapes, or exposure to hazardous materials.
- Masks: Depending on the severity of the damage, mold may already be growing. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling harmful spores, dust, or other airborne particles.
Use a Flashlight
Avoid using candles or open flames when inspecting your property. If there’s a gas leak, even a small flame could cause an explosion. Instead, use a flashlight to safely navigate dark areas.
If in Doubt, Call a Professional
If you are unsure about the safety of entering your property, don’t risk it. Hire a professional contractor, inspector, or disaster recovery expert to evaluate the building before you go inside. It’s better to be safe and avoid causing additional harm or injury.
By taking these essential safety precautions, you can minimize the risk of injury or accidents during the initial inspection of your hurricane-damaged property. Always prioritize your health and safety over quickly assessing damage—you can deal with the property once you know it’s safe.
Document the Damage Before Touching Anything
Before you start cleaning up or making any repairs, it’s crucial to thoroughly document the damage to your property. Proper documentation is not only essential for your insurance claim, but it can also prevent disputes down the road. Here’s how to make sure you capture everything effectively:
Take Photos and Videos of Everything
The first thing you should do is grab your smartphone or camera and start documenting every area of your property, both inside and outside. Focus on:
- Interior and exterior walls: Take wide-angle shots of each room and close-ups of any specific damage like cracks, leaks, or collapsed areas.
- Personal belongings: Photograph furniture, electronics, appliances, and other valuable items that have been damaged or destroyed.
- Roof and windows: Capture any broken or missing shingles, damaged gutters, or broken windows to show the full extent of the storm’s impact.
- Flood levels: If water intrusion occurred, take pictures of water lines on walls or any standing water inside the house. Showing the water level can help support claims for flood-related damage
Capture Damage from Multiple Angles
To ensure nothing is missed, take multiple photos and videos from different angles:
- Wide shots for context: These help show the overall damage to each area of your home or property.
- Close-ups for details: Zoom in on specific areas of damage, like broken appliances, torn shingles, or mold growth.
- Exterior photos: Make sure to document fallen trees, roof damage, and any exterior structures like fences, sheds, or garages.
Create a Written Inventory
In addition to photos and videos, create a detailed list of everything that’s been damaged or destroyed. This written inventory can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any important items when filing your insurance claim. For each item, include:
- Description: Name the item and briefly describe it (e.g., “Leather sofa, brown, 3-seater”).
- Estimated value: Include the original purchase price or estimated current value.
- Condition before the storm: Note if the item was in good, fair, or poor condition before the hurricane.
Don't Move or Discard Anything Yet
As tempting as it may be to start cleaning up the mess, resist the urge. Your insurance company’s adjuster will need to see the damage exactly as it is to accurately assess your claim. Moving items around or discarding anything before they arrive could impact your ability to get full compensation for your losses. Keep everything in place until the adjuster completes their inspection.
Take Notes Along the Way
As you’re documenting the damage, make notes about what you see. For example, note if a window was shattered by flying debris, or if water from the storm caused visible damage to walls and floors. These notes will help when it comes time to explain the damage to your insurance company or adjuster.
Use a Home Inventory App (Optional)
If you want to make the process even easier, consider using a home inventory app. Many apps allow you to catalog your possessions and damage with photos and descriptions, making it simple to organize everything in one place. Plus, these apps often sync with cloud storage, ensuring your records are safe even if your device is lost or damaged.
Document Immediately to Ensure Accuracy
It’s important to document the damage as soon as possible to ensure the evidence is fresh and accurate. Waiting too long can lead to further deterioration of the property, making it harder to prove which damage was caused directly by the hurricane.
By thoroughly documenting the damage and creating a detailed inventory, you’ll be in a much stronger position when it comes time to file your insurance claim. It ensures that nothing is overlooked and increases the chances of receiving fair compensation for your losses.
Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately
Once you’ve ensured your safety and thoroughly documented the damage to your property, your next step should be contacting your insurance company as soon as possible. Filing your claim promptly helps initiate the process and ensures you’re on the right track toward recovery. Here’s how to handle this crucial step:
Notify Your Insurance Company Right Away
Time is of the essence when it comes to filing an insurance claim. Most policies require that you report damage promptly after the event, and delaying your claim could result in longer processing times or potential disputes. Here’s what to do:
- Call your insurer’s claims department: Have your policy number ready when you make the call. If your insurance company has a mobile app or online portal, use it to submit a claim and track its status.
- Provide a brief description: Let them know the type of damage you’ve sustained (e.g., roof damage, water intrusion, broken windows) without going into too much detail yet.
- Ask about next steps: They’ll likely provide instructions on what documentation to prepare and any immediate actions you should take.
Ask About Temporary Living Expense Coverage
If your home is uninhabitable due to the hurricane damage, ask about your coverage for temporary living expenses. Most homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies offer coverage for alternative housing during repairs. This can include:
- Hotel or rental stays: They may cover the cost of accommodations if you need to leave your home.
- Additional living expenses: This may include meals, transportation, or other necessary costs associated with being displaced.
Ensure you keep all receipts and invoices for any expenses, as you’ll need to submit these to your insurer for reimbursement.
Schedule an Adjuster Visit
Once you’ve filed your claim, your insurance company will typically send out an adjuster to assess the damage. To make this process smoother:
- Be flexible with timing: The sooner you can schedule the visit, the sooner your claim can be processed.
- Have your documentation ready: When the adjuster arrives, provide them with your photos, videos, and inventory of damaged items. The more organized you are, the easier it will be for the adjuster to complete their report.
- Walk the property with them: Accompany the adjuster during their inspection to point out any areas of concern and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Ask About Emergency Repairs
Most insurance policies allow you to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your property. However, it’s important to follow their guidelines:
- Clarify what’s covered: Ask your insurer what types of emergency repairs are allowed before the adjuster’s visit, such as covering broken windows or patching leaks.
- Document repairs: As with damage, take photos of the emergency repairs you make. Keep all receipts and invoices for any materials or labor hired, as these costs may be reimbursable
Keep a Record of All Communications
Throughout the entire claims process, keep detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, including:
- Phone calls and emails: Note the names of the representatives you speak with and what was discussed.
- Claim reference numbers: Keep track of any claim numbers or case IDs assigned to your claim.
- Follow-up notes: Document the dates of any follow-up calls or actions taken by your insurance company.
Staying organized will help you stay on top of the claim and ensure you have everything you need should any issues arise. By contacting your insurance company promptly and following their guidelines, you’ll be better positioned to move forward with your claim. The sooner you start the process, the sooner you can begin repairs and get back to normal life.
Start Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage
Once you’ve documented the damage and contacted your insurance company, it’s time to take steps to prevent any additional harm to your property. While you should avoid major repairs until your insurance adjuster has assessed the situation, temporary fixes are often necessary to protect your home and belongings. Here’s how to handle emergency repairs effectively:
Make Only Essential Temporary Repairs
Your main priority is to prevent further damage to your home, but keep in mind that your insurance company needs to see the damage as close to its original state as possible. Only make repairs that are absolutely necessary to stabilize your home and avoid additional loss. Here are some common temporary repairs:
- Cover broken windows: Use plywood or heavy plastic sheeting to seal any broken windows or doors to prevent water or wind from causing further damage.
- Tarp your roof: If there are leaks or holes in your roof, cover them with a weatherproof tarp to stop water from entering the house.
- Patch small leaks: Use temporary materials like sealant or a plastic patch to prevent water from seeping into the home.
- Remove standing water: If there’s standing water inside, use a wet-dry vacuum or pumps to remove it. Excess moisture can lead to mold growth and further deterioration of your property.
Document Every Repair
Just like with the original damage, it’s important to document the temporary repairs you make. Take photos of the damage before and after the repairs to show how you’ve mitigated further harm to your property. This will help your insurance company understand what repairs were necessary and why.
Keep All Receipts and Invoices
Any costs incurred for temporary repairs, such as materials or labor, may be eligible for reimbursement under your insurance policy. Save every receipt for items like:
- Plywood, tarps, and nails for covering exposed areas.
- Wet/dry vacuums or pumps for water removal.
- Labor costs if you hire a contractor for emergency repairs.
Make sure to submit these receipts when filing your claim, as your insurance company will likely ask for proof of expenses.
Don’t Start Permanent Repairs Until the Adjuster Visits
While it’s tempting to begin permanent repairs right away, it’s essential to wait until your insurance adjuster has inspected the damage and approved your claim. Starting major repairs prematurely could lead to complications or disputes with your insurance provider. Here’s why:
- Insurance adjusters need to see the damage: If major repairs are made before their inspection, it can be difficult for them to assess the full extent of the damage, which may result in a lower payout or even claim denial.
- They may want to verify estimates: The adjuster may need to approve the repair estimates from contractors before work can begin to ensure that all costs are covered.
Work with Trusted, Licensed Contractors
When you’re ready to start making more permanent repairs, be sure to hire licensed and insured contractors. After hurricanes, it’s not uncommon for scammers or unlicensed contractors to take advantage of homeowners in need of quick repairs. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Verify credentials: Always check that the contractor is licensed and has insurance. This will protect you from liability and ensure they meet local building codes.
- Get multiple estimates: It’s a good idea to get at least three estimates from reputable contractors. This will help ensure you’re getting a fair price and that the insurance company will approve the repairs.
Avoid Overcommitting to Long-Term Contracts
In the aftermath of a hurricane, you may be approached by contractors offering to handle all your repairs or manage your insurance claim for you. Be cautious:
- Don’t sign contracts too quickly: Make sure you fully understand the terms before signing any repair agreements.
- Beware of public adjusters or contractors who promise a big payout: Some may try to inflate repair costs or pressure you into unnecessary repairs, which can complicate your claim with the insurance company.
Keep Your Home Secure and Prevent Further Loss
If your home is unsafe to live in, make sure it’s properly secured to prevent theft or further damage:
- Lock or board up accessible areas: If windows or doors are broken, make sure they’re securely covered to keep out intruders or wildlife.
- Move valuable items to a safe location: If possible, move undamaged personal belongings to a safer area, either within your home or to a secure off-site location, to prevent them from being affected by additional water, wind, or theft.
By focusing on necessary temporary repairs and documenting everything thoroughly, you’ll not only protect your home from further damage but also ensure a smoother insurance claim process. Staying organized and working closely with your insurance company will set you up for success when it comes time for permanent repairs.
Important Documents to Gather for Your Insurance Claim
As you prepare to file your insurance claim, having the right documents on hand can make the process much smoother and faster. Your insurance company will need specific information to verify your losses and assess the damage. Here’s a guide to the essential documents you should gather to support your claim:
1. Your Insurance Policy
Start by locating your homeowners or renter’s insurance policy. This document outlines your coverage, deductibles, and any exclusions that may apply. You’ll need to reference it throughout the claims process to ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered. Make sure you have:
- Policy number: Keep this handy when contacting your insurance company.
- Details of coverage: Know the limits of your policy, including wind and flood damage coverage, and any applicable deductibles for hurricane-related damage.
- Contact information: Have the phone number and email for your insurance company’s claims department.
2. Proof of Ownership or Rental Agreement
In the event of significant damage, you’ll need to provide documentation that proves you are the homeowner or renter of the property:
- For homeowners: Keep a copy of your property deed or mortgage documents. These establish your ownership of the home and provide proof that the insurance policy is in your name.
- For renters: Have a copy of your lease agreement to show that you have a legal right to occupy the property and are covered by a renter’s insurance policy.
3. Receipts and Invoices for Major Purchases
For personal property or high-value items that were damaged or destroyed, you’ll need to show proof of their value. Gather receipts or invoices for any significant purchases, such as:
- Appliances: Refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other large appliances.
- Furniture: Couches, beds, tables, and other high-value furnishings.
- Electronics: Televisions, computers, home theater systems, etc.
If you don’t have receipts, you can provide credit card statements or bank statements showing the purchase as an alternative.
4. Records of Home Improvements or Repairs
If you’ve made any significant upgrades or renovations to your home, having documentation of these improvements can help ensure you’re reimbursed for their value. This could include:
- Receipts for materials and labor: If you’ve remodeled your kitchen, added a deck, or replaced your roof, keep records of the costs involved.
- Permits or contracts: Any building permits or contractor agreements related to past home improvements should be part of your documentation.
5. An Itemized Inventory of Damaged Property
As you assess the damage, create an itemized list of everything that’s been damaged or destroyed. This will help your insurance company accurately estimate the loss. Your inventory should include:
- Item name and description: Be as specific as possible (e.g., “Samsung 65-inch TV, model number XXXX”).
- Condition before the storm: Estimate whether the item was in good, fair, or poor condition prior to the damage.
- Estimated value: Include the original cost of the item or its current market value.
- Photos or videos of the damage: Visual evidence will help substantiate your claim. Make sure to include photos of both the overall damage and close-up details.
6. Home Inspection Reports (If Available)
If you had a home inspection before purchasing the property or recently had one done, this can be useful in showing the pre-storm condition of your home. An inspection report can help differentiate between damage caused by the hurricane and any pre-existing conditions, which is crucial for the claims process.
7. Repair Estimates
After the insurance adjuster inspects your property, you’ll likely need to provide estimates from licensed contractors for repair costs. Collect multiple estimates to compare prices and ensure that you’re getting a fair rate. Be sure that the estimates are detailed, outlining:
- Labor costs: Breakdown of hours and rates.
- Materials: Detailed list of materials required for the repairs.
- Projected timeline: Estimated start and completion dates for the work.
Submit these estimates to your insurance company for approval before beginning any major repairs.
8. Temporary Housing Expenses (If Applicable)
If your home is uninhabitable due to storm damage, your insurance policy may cover temporary living expenses. Keep a record of all costs associated with your displacement, including:
- Hotel or rental costs: Invoices from hotels, Airbnb, or other rental accommodations.
- Meal expenses: If you’re staying in a hotel and don’t have access to cooking facilities, keep receipts for meals.
- Transportation costs: If you need to travel farther for work or school due to temporary housing, document mileage and transportation fees.
9. Utility Bills and Service Interruption Records
If you lost power, gas, or water during the hurricane, some insurance policies may cover service interruptions or related damages. Keep copies of your utility bills to show the period during which services were unavailable, as well as any related costs for repairs or reconnection.
10. Communication Logs
Throughout the claims process, it’s important to keep a detailed log of all interactions with your insurance company and contractors. Record:
- Dates and times of calls or emails: Note when you spoke with your insurance adjuster, contractors, or other relevant parties.
- Names and roles: Keep track of who you spoke with and their role (e.g., claims representative, contractor).
- Summary of conversations: Write down key points discussed, including any agreements, timelines, or follow-up actions required.
Keeping organized and detailed records will help you stay on top of the claims process and ensure that all necessary documents are provided. By gathering these important documents, you’ll be prepared to file a thorough and accurate claim, reducing the chances of delays or disputes with your insurance company.
helpful links/resources
Here is a list of helpful resources for Florida residents impacted by hurricanes, including state, federal, and charitable organizations:
State of Florida Resources
- Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM): Provides information on shelters, evacuation plans, and emergency services. Their State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557 is activated during emergencies to provide up-to-date disaster information and connect residents to available resources. Visit FloridaDisaster.org for more details.
- Florida Attorney General’s Price Gouging Hotline: To report any suspicious price increases on essentials post-hurricane, call 1-866-966-7226. Learn more at Hurricane Help Florida.
Federal Resources
FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency): FEMA offers disaster assistance to those affected by hurricanes through the Individuals and Households Program. You can apply for federal aid by visiting FEMA’s Disaster Assistance Page or calling 1-800-621-3362.
FEMA Housing Assistance: Provides temporary housing solutions, such as rental assistance or funds for essential home repairs. More details are available on FEMA’s Housing Assistance Page.
- Operation Blue Roof: A program run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide free temporary roof repairs to homeowners affected by storms. You can apply by visiting Operation Blue Roof or by calling 1-888-766-3258.
Federal Resources
- Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW): Provides a wide range of services, including financial assistance, mental health support, and referrals for food and housing aid. You can access their free 24/7 hotline by calling 211 or visiting Heart of Florida United Way.
- American Red Cross: The Red Cross assists with shelter, food, and emotional support after a hurricane. You can donate or find local help by visiting Red Cross Hurricane Relief or calling 1-800-733-2767.
These resources provide essential support for Florida residents facing the challenges of hurricane recovery, from financial assistance to temporary housing and debris cleanup services. Be sure to contact these organizations for any needs related to disaster recovery.
Conclusion
Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane is never easy, but taking the right steps can make all the difference in protecting your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind. From prioritizing your safety when returning to a damaged property to documenting every detail for your insurance claim, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring a smoother recovery process.
By being proactive and organized—gathering important documents, communicating clearly with your insurance company, and making necessary temporary repairs—you’ll set yourself up for success as you navigate the claims process. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, understanding the distinction between wind and flood damage, knowing what’s covered under your policies, and keeping detailed records can significantly reduce the stress and confusion of dealing with hurricane-related damage.
Remember, patience is key. While the process may feel overwhelming, following these steps will help you protect your interests and move forward with confidence, knowing you’re taking the necessary actions to restore your home and life after a storm. Stay informed, stay safe, and know that support is available every step of the way as you rebuild and recover.
