Homeowners: What To Do After Wind Damage
Strong winds can sometimes cause damage to roofs, siding, gutters, fencing, and other parts of your home. If you think your home may have wind damage, taking the right steps in the right order can help protect your property and make the process smoother.
- Prevent further damage
Your first priority should always be protecting the home from additional damage.
If it is safe to do so, you may want to:
• Secure loose materials
• Tarp a damaged roof area
• Move property away from exposed areas
Many homeowners choose to contact a reputable contractor right away to help with temporary repairs.
Be sure to take photos of the damage and keep receipts for any emergency repairs.
- Document what happened
Take clear photos of any visible damage and note when the damage likely occurred. Wind damage commonly affects:
• Roof shingles
• Siding
• Gutters and downspouts
• Fencing
• Outdoor structures
Documentation is helpful whether repairs are handled privately or through insurance.
- Have the damage evaluated
A qualified contractor can help determine:
• The cause of the damage
• The extent of the damage
• The estimated cost to repair
Getting a professional estimate is an important step before deciding whether to file an insurance claim.
- Compare the repair estimate to your deductible
Homeowners policies typically include deductibles that can range from $1,000 to several thousand dollars depending on the policy.
If the estimated repairs are only slightly above the deductible, many homeowners choose to handle the repairs without filing a claim.
- Talk with your insurance agent before filing
Once you have an idea of the repair cost, we are happy to help you decide whether filing a claim makes sense.
We can:
• Review the situation with you
• Help confirm whether the damage appears to be covered
• Guide you through the claims process if needed
Our goal is to help you make the best decision for your situation.
If you think your home may have wind damage or have questions about next steps, contact our office and we’ll be glad to help.
Kelly Insurance Agency
330-929-3056