Use this flood recovery checklist to get back on your feet after a major flooding disaster.
If you’ve experienced a major flooding event, you know how quickly it can turn your life upside down. Luckily, there are steps you can take to get things back on track. Use this checklist to help you and your loved ones recover after a flood.
1) Initial Home Assessment
First, do not return home until your property has been declared safe by the authorities. When you are free to enter, drain any standing water inside your home and salvage any property that you can. Then, protect your home from further damage by patching holes, removing debris, and circulating air to dry things out.
2) Document Damage and File a Claim
Walk through your home and take videos and photos to document the extent of your damage. Once this has been completed, call your insurance provider to discuss the claims process. At this time, your insurer may send a claims adjuster to your home. Between your claim adjuster’s report and your photo and video evidence, your insurer will offer you your coverage amount.
3) Make Repairs
Only speak to a contractor after receiving the official go-ahead from your insurer. If you schedule repairs before you receive approval, you might overspend on your repairs, and the difference would come out of your own pocket. Select a contractor with experience working with flood repairs to ensure a job well done.
4) Fix Cosmetic Issues
After you’ve made all the major repairs, you can focus your attention on smaller, cosmetic issues. For instance, repaint your walls, reinstall damaged baseboards, and scrub away water stains. Now is also a good time to start replacing the furniture and other personal possessions you were unable to salvage.
Follow the steps on this checklist to recover after a flood event. Remember, your ability to recover is heavily dependent on your homeowners insurance coverage. To ensure your home has the comprehensive coverage it needs, contact the experts at Weaver & Associates in Arcadia, California today.
