How to Address Storm Damage

When a big storm rolls through your community, it can leave multiple forms of damage in its wake. Garage doors, roofs, trees, and fencing are just some of the things a large storm can damage. If your community has experienced significant storm damage, it can be difficult to know how to address the situation. If this is your community’s first time dealing with major storm damage, take some time to review the following process for addressing the situation.

Cordon Off Dangerous Areas

As soon as possible, put yellow hazard tape around areas that could be dangerous for residents to enter. Your community already has plenty on its hands, as it decides how to address the storm damage. The last thing it needs is a liability lawsuit from a resident who was injured after entering a dangerous, non-secure area.

Contact the Insurance Company

If your community has a community management provider, it can work with the community’s insurance provider to determine what damage is covered and how it is covered. For example, a new roof that is damaged in a storm may not be covered by the manufacturer. However, this type of damage is typically covered by the insurance company that covers the building against damage. Identify Quality General Contractors It is imperative to get the repair process in motion as quickly as possible. If your community has a community management provider, it can investigate the specialties and work quality of contractors in the area. If your neighborhood doesn’t have a community management provider, using the services of the National Storm Damage Center (NSDC) is a good alternative.

Receive at Least Three Bids

The bidding process should start as quickly as possible. However, don’t let haste tempt you into receiving just any offer. Ideally, you should receive at least three offers from different contractors. The offers should be based on a detailed description of the work that must be performed. A community management provider can handle the bidding process on behalf of the board.

Start the Repair Process Today

Storm damage is often impossible to predict, however after it occurs, it is important to get it repaired as quickly as possible. The four-step process above is a general guide for what communities should do following serious storm damage. For more detailed information about how to handle storm damage, speak with the NSDC or a community management provider today.