STORM Preparation

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

January 25, 2021

STORM Preparation

     Recently, our crews returned from a very extended STORM event as they assisted in the recovery efforts of homeowners of the Lake Charles, Louisiana area following Hurricanes Laura and Delta. Following this event, and recapping the things learned from the various scenarios faced in each of the homes, we would like to pass on to you some helpful tips that seemed to help several of our customers’ insurance claims move along much smoother following a disaster;

• While it is difficult to predict storms here in Western Kentucky (tornadoes, straight line winds, floods, etc.), we can make every effort to be prepared in the event one strikes. To do so, it is imperative that you undertake the following actions;
  1. Routinely document your residence. Take photos of the home, video of the home (interior and exterior along with general property), and make sure these are saved on a cloud drive.
  2. Keep a list of valuable items such as electronics, jewelry, firearms, and much more.
  3. Make sure all insurance policy information and documentation is kept in a digital location as well as in a physical location in the event you are forced to evacuate your residence or cannot return to it due to a natural disaster or fire.
  4. When you return to your residence, or if you stayed during the event, record and photograph any and all damage as soon as safely possible. This will be needed by the mitigation company, contractor, and especially, your insurance adjustor. Many times the water coming through a ceiling or walls will not show visible damage by the time your Adjustor arrives. Video and photographic evidence helps support and identify where mitigation work will need to be conducted.
  5. You ALWAYS have the right to request another opinion in the event you get an Adjustor that you disagree with. This is your right as a homeowner.
• Have a bug-out bag ready to go. Examples of what should go in this evacuation ready bag can be found on ready.gov.
• Have a quick list of immediate contacts. In the event your home is impacted, you will need to notify individuals that your home has been impacted, and especially in the event your home take a direct hit from straight line winds or a tornado. This will ensure those who care know you are alright.

In the event your home or business takes a direct hit or experiences a natural disaster, please do not hesitate to reach out to us 24-Hours a day at (270) 753-1160, or visit us on the web at SERVPRO of LBL North.