The following includes information regarding damage control immediately following Hurricane Sandy. Erik Braunitzer is a writer for Douglas Elliman, brokers for NYC, Long Island and Hamptons Real Estate.
Hurricane Sandy has forced New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania to focus on disaster recovery. Though the Nor’Easter has impeded and delayed recovery, home owners should be prepared to continue recovery efforts when the storm is over. Here are some tips to consider when you return during disaster recovery efforts:
Examine Your Home for Damages
When you return home, inspect and check the interior and exterior for damages. During the storm, debris often falls into the yard, onto the roof and other parts of the home. Debris can damage the home or make the home impassable. Leaks are also commonly caused by debris. Roof shingles may also have blown off the roof. If this happens, water damage may occur. Significant damage may require filing a claim.
File an Insurance Claim
If there is significant damage to your home, contact your insurance agent and then, file a claim. If there is damage done to the home, it should be documented with photographs and descriptions. Afterwards, the homeowner should protect the property from being damaged any further.
Check for Rogue Vendors
One major problem during every disaster and particularly Hurricane Sandy is rogue vendors. Hurricane Sandy survivors should check the credentials of people they hire. Reputable vendors can provide evidence of licenses and insurance. Vendors should also have the ability to provide references and liability coverage.
Always check the vendors credentials to ensure that your money will be used for the service requested. For instance, a tree service must be licensed and insured. Any people who come onto your property could sue your estate for being hurt on the property. Ample research must be conducted to ensure vendors are reputable.
Document and Prove Physical Loss
In order to file a claim, vendors must demonstrate direct physical loss. Photographs are the best way to demonstrate wind damage. After the damage is proven and the deductible has been paid, the insurance company will provide payment to replace the damaged structure or item.
Keep Expenses Low and File Only Large Claims
Before Hurricane Sandy, many people kept their insurance costs low by obtaining an insurance policy with a high deductible. Insurance rates may increase if a claim is filed. Experts advise against filing for a smaller loss. People with larger losses are advised to contact their insurance company immediately.
File Flood Damage As Soon As Possible
People who have flood damage have a 60-day deadline to file claims for damages. To ensure the claim is accepted, document with photographs and descriptions. Keep all receipts. The more evidence presented, the more likely the claim will be accepted. Previous history indicates that deadlines may be extended, but do not depend on it. Try to file the claim as soon as possible. An extension was granted after Hurricane Irene in 2011.
How to Be Prepared for the Future
If you used your emergency supplies during this storm, restock them for the next disaster. Ensure you have enough batteries, water and perishable foods. Keep a reserve supply of medications. Also keep an inventory list of your household items so that you will be prepared for the next disaster. Keep a copy in the safe deposit box and another one in the home off of the floor. This will help you be more prepared in the future for storms.
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