After the Storm Pass Call SERVPRO of East Cobb

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

How should you check your property for storm damage?

After the storm has passed, it is so important to conduct a thorough storm damage inspection. With the changing weather, Kennesaw and Marietta are going to suffer heavy rains, strong winds, and powerful storms. While your home is able to protect you from Mother Nature, your home should be thoroughly checked for damages once the storm has passed. You may not have a reason to suspect that your home has been damaged as it may not be evident initially. However, once the inclement weather has safely passed through, it is extremely important to assess for damages and what repairs may need to be done before another storm comes along. The following is a handy damage assessment list that should be followed after the storm has passed by the National Storm Damage Center:

Roof

Your roof is typically one of the most vulnerable areas during a storm especially with all of the trees in residential areas of Cobb County. Hail, wind, rain and debris can adversely impact your room and may cause permanent damage to the integrity of your roof. The following indicators can help in your assessment-

• Holes or tears in the roof.
• Split seams.
• Lost or missing shingles.
• Ceiling or roof leaks.

Do not attempt to climb to your roof if there are still dangers or if you suspect your roof to not be secure.

The Exterior of the Dwelling

Materials such as brick, siding and stucco are usually heavy and durable. However, during a storm, they may not be able to withstand significant damages that a storm may cause. In some cases, problems may not arise, or be noticed, until it is too late to file an insurance claim. Be diligent and pay attention to the following areas of your home-

• Chipping, cracking, dents and dings being obvious signs of damage to the exterior of your home.
• Small or large holes in stucco.
• Damaged tuck pointing and brick.
• Detached or ruined gutters, trip, downspouts, etc.

Driveways, Walkways and Porches

Concrete can split, chip and crack with continuous storms and rain. Should you have gravel or dirt on your driveway, this could lead to flooding and additional damage to the structure of your home. These damages can reduce the lifespan of your walkway and can cause damage to your home even after the storm has passed.

Trees and Fallen Limbs

According to the National Storm Damage Center, fallen trees and branches can cause billions of dollars in damages each year. Make sure you do not have an excessive amount of overgrown vegetation surrounding your home as this can be a tool to cause additional damage to your home.

Basic Tips:

• Severe storms may knock down power and electrical lines. Should this happen near you, do not approach the line, and call your power company immediately.
• After a storm, assess your fencing, air conditioning units, vents, and garages for damages.
• Crawlspaces and basements should be inspected for flooding and damage.
• Document all the damage.

Call SERVPRO of East Cobb today if your home has suffered storm damage-(770) 424-0400