Every year, hundreds of properties in Novato CA get damaged due to storms. You hear reports of windows blown out, damaged chimneys, trees crushing people’s homes, basement flooding, ripped off roofing shingles, sewer overflowing, and foundations leaking. Heavy snow storms, high winds, rain, hail, tornadoes, and even hurricanes can destroy a property within a short period.
If you have experienced storm damage in Novato CA, it is important that you don’t allow it to go unaddressed. Ignoring the damage will cause subsequent destruction such as water damage to the home’s building materials.
What To Do Before The Storm
Thanks to meteorological advancement, we can now predict when an atmospheric disturbance is approaching. The following precautions should be taken before the storm happens.
- Remove all debris from your home. If you live in areas prone to flooding, evacuate your home. Only carry the essentials, for instance a few clothes and some canned food.
- Review your insurance policies and make sure you have a flood and hurricane protection plan and that it protects both your home and belongings.
- Take photos of your property before the storm. This will help you if you want to file a claim.
- Prepare your emergency bag. Pack a set of clothing and preserved food. Also, include medicines and bandages, batteries, and a flashlight. Keep a copy of essential papers in the bag, like passports, birth certificates, and your home’s insurance policies.
What You Should Do During The Storm
- Stay indoors, away from windows
- If you happen to be outdoors, make sure you shelter away from gutters, waterways, creeks, and drains.
- Avoid driving, walking, or riding through floodwater.
- Floodwater is harmful- don’t play or swim in it.
What You Should Do After The Storm
- Check your property for storm damage
- Keep clear of destroyed power lines, trees, and buildings
- Avoid driving through affected areas
- Be aware of road perils such as debris, floodwater, and damaged bridges or roads.
When To Call In A Professional
Some storm damage is quite evident, yet some damage can be utterly hard to see but still pose a grave concern for the homeowner. For instance, chimneys can be damaged and not visible from the ground. The damage to your siding might not be readily apparent. It can be very hard to observe roof damage from the ground. If you have experienced storm damage in Novato CA, it is good to call in the experts to perform a damage assessment. With their expertise and training, they will be able to assess and identify all the storm destruction effects on your property.
Also, these professionals will offer fallen tree removal, inspections, debris removal, roof repair, foundation repair, personal property inventory, and flood damage cleanup. What’s more, the experts are thoroughly knowledgeable about all the local building codes, building permits, and ordinances that may be required during the cleanup.
Conclusion
When Mother Nature brings in some storm, it can drive your property in distress. Some storms will cause minor damage, but there are others that will leave you wondering if you will ever fully recover. Dealing with damages caused by the storm can be overwhelming and upsetting. That’s why you should employ the services of a professional who will assess your damage and formulate a recovery plan.