How To Assess Storm Damage and Prioritize Cleanup Efforts
The aftermath of a major storm can be overwhelming. Downed trees, water damage, and piles of debris often leave property owners unsure of where to begin. A systematic approach to assessing damage and prioritizing cleanup efforts is crucial for a safe and efficient recovery process. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps you can take immediately following a storm.
Take Safety Measures
Hidden hazards abound in storm-ravaged areas. Therefore, the first thing you'll want to do is protect your property and ensure your family's safety. Make sure everyone in your household is accounted for and uninjured. Then follow these post-storm tips:
- Avoid downed power lines.
- Find the main breaker to your home and turn off the electricity — but only if the water remains below the level of the electrical outlets in the room with the breaker.
- If there's a gas line to your home, turn the gas off, as well.
- If you suspect a gas leak or an electrical hazard, leave the property and contact the utility company.
- Avoid walking or wading through standing water, no matter how shallow or safe it seems. Stormwater can harbor sharp objects, harmful bacteria and chemicals, sewage, electrical currents, and wildlife such as snakes.
- Don't use flammable items such as matches or lighters.
- Avoid structures that might be unstable. If you're unsure whether your home is at risk of collapse, err on the side of caution, and do not enter.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. To be fairly compensated for repairs, you'll need to report the storm damage and begin the claims process. Your insurance agent can also tell you what documentation they'll need to streamline the process.
Evaluate and Document the Damage
When it's safe to do so, thoroughly assess your property to determine the severity of the damage. You'll want to document your observations and findings as you go so you can relay them to your insurance company. Important areas to evaluate include the roof, electrical systems and plumbing, all structures, and the foundation. Wear protective clothing, sturdy close-toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and a mask so you're not breathing in mold or chemicals.
Some damage, such as broken windows, will be obvious. Other issues, such as water or roof damage, might not be immediately apparent. If the storm damage is complex or you're not sure how severe it is, you might want to hire a professional, such as a contractor or restoration expert, with the expertise to assess your property and identify any issues. This is because if you miss something, it can lead to serious issues such as structural damage or mold growth later on. A trained professional can also help you establish a plan for repairs.
Take photographs and video footage of all the storm damage you can find. Shoot them from various angles and, if possible, include a timestamp. This will be valuable evidence and proof of storm damage when making an insurance claim. Also, take inventory of all damaged items and note the value of each. If you need to make any temporary or immediate repairs out of pocket, keep receipts or invoices so your insurance company can compensate you appropriately.
Prioritize Immediate Issues
Create a list of things that need to be repaired or cleaned up. Flag the issues that could become dangerous or cause injuries as immediate tasks. Organize the repairs that are cosmetic or can wait lower on your list. This checklist approach can help you best manage your resources and time. Things to address immediately might include:
- Cleaning up broken glass.
- Boarding up broken windows and doors so they're not open to the elements or intruders.
- Covering damaged roof areas with tarps or plastic to keep rain out.
- Securing debris and loose objects that could become tripping hazards or projectiles in the wind.
- Securing and repairing the areas people and pets use most frequently.
Tackle cosmetic repairs such as painting after you've repaired and cleaned up these health and safety issues.
Start Cleanup Efforts
Before you start clearing and collecting storm debris, contact your local county or waste management company to find out where and how to dispose of the waste. After major storms, many Georgia communities offer pickup or disposal services. Ask if any assistance programs or community resources are available to help in your recovery. Then, begin common cleanup efforts, including:
- Open all doors and windows for ventilation.
- Throw away all the food and perishables from your refrigerator if your house has been without power.
- Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Clear fallen branches and debris from around your property. For large trees, call an arborist or a professional tree removal company that will have the equipment and ability to remove trees safely.
If your home has been exposed to sewage or backflow, wash and disinfect all walls and floors. You can create an effective disinfectant by mixing 1 cup of bleach with 5 gallons of water. While disinfecting, pay close attention to food preparation and dining areas, as well as surfaces that kids and pets come in contact with frequently. Throw away any items you can't thoroughly clean or disinfect, such as mattresses and upholstered furniture. You might need to hire a professional to steam-clean carpeting.
Address Water Damage
Severe storms often cause flooding or water damage. If your home sustains water damage, it's important to address it immediately to prevent further destruction and mold growth. With standing water, make sure you've turned off the electricity to the house before entering, then use buckets or pumps to remove the water.
The next important step is drying out your house so mold doesn't grow. Open all the windows and doors and set up fans and dehumidifiers for air circulation. Remove all wet furniture, carpets, and upholstery and lay them out to dry. Because of the dangers mold poses to your health, it's smart to hire a professional to assess your home for hidden moisture and address problem areas. Large areas of mold growth will typically require professional mold remediation.
Be Prepared Post-Storm
Effective damage assessment and cleanup in the wake of a storm is crucial for a swift and safe recovery. By following these steps — from conducting a thorough initial sweep to prioritizing tasks based on safety and significance — you can navigate the post-storm period with confidence and efficiency. And remember, you don't need to go it alone. Communicate with your insurance company, and seek professional help for tasks beyond your expertise or capability.