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5 Signs Of Lingering Storm Damage You Shouldn’t Ignore

5 Signs Of Lingering Storm Damage You Shouldn't Ignore post

The battle doesn’t end when the storm is over. There are still challenges to overcome, and slacking off even a little bit can turn the tide for the worse. Know the signs of lingering storm damage that you shouldn’t ignore so you can be proactive in protecting your property. Need help filing a storm damage claim? Altieri Insurance Consultants Sarasota can help you get your life back with a team of dedicated public adjusters near you!

Dealing with Hurricane Helene damage in Sarasota? Find out how relying on a pro to assist with your claims can help you achieve better and faster recovery.

1. Roof Leaks (Yes, Even the Small Ones)

The longer a leak lingers, the more harm it’ll do to your Sarasota property. Not all leaks are the obvious ones that look like streams or downpours leading into the building. Even the lonely drops with prolonged pauses between drips can do a lot of damage upon neglect. The moment you hear that dreaded pitter-patter after a heavy storm, it’s time to do something about it.

2. Hazardous Electrical Issues

Storms can get hectic. Hectic enough to bring down power lines and break open electrical panels. Any hazard having to do with electricity is something that should be dealt with ASAP. These types of damages are extremely dangerous, more to anyone who happens to be nearby than to the property itself. Keep everyone safe and prevent liabilities by taking care of storm-related electrical issues in Sarasota the moment you see them.

3. Compromised Windows and Doors

It’s not uncommon for Sarasota property owners to encounter shattered window panes and busted doors after a storm. However, the way you handle these types of damages can have an impact on your property’s safety and the result of your insurance claim. These broken structures leave your property vulnerable to additional damages that your insurer may not cover due to neglect. Act promptly to restore peace and get what you are owed.

4. Potential Structural Risks

Other structural risks to your Sarasota property after a storm might include:

  • Damaged siding
  • Broken gutter systems
  • Cracks in the foundation
  • Sagging or uneven floors

Time is of the essence, and failing to address any of these obvious risks to your property’s structural integrity spells nothing but additional problems to add to your list of troubles.

5. Fallen Tree Branches

Fallen trees are also no stranger to Sarasota storms. But if you spot a broken tree or branch resting on your landscape, you shouldn’t shrug it off as something you can deal with later. Storm-related tree damage is something that should also be placed high on your priority list, alongside the other types of damage we mentioned earlier. That’s because a fallen tree may indicate property damage that you might not have noticed, and the broken tree may continue to pose a threat to its surroundings.

I Have One Or More Of These Risks On My Property. What Should I Do Next?

So you’ve identified one or more of these types of damage to your Sarasota property. The next step is to call up the right professionals to handle repairs and insurance reports.

Take this step-by-step guide on what to do when you encounter storm damage in Sarasota:

  1. Ensure that the area is safe.
  2. Take photo and video evidence of the damage.
  3. Let your insurer know about the damage.
  4. Call a public adjuster for further instructions.
  5. Do what you can to prevent further damage.

You may need to call out a roofer, mitigation contractor, or electrician to make some temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Failing to do so can jeopardize your claim as it is a provision in your policy to prevent damages from worsening. This is why hiring a public adjuster is the best thing you can do when filing a hurricane insurance claim in Sarasota. We’re the team you can count on!

What If I Already Had a Claim and I Notice Additional Damages Months After?

If you’ve already put in a claim, but notice additional damages months later, you may be able to file a supplemental claim to make those repairs. The statute of limitations in Florida is three years for any supplemental claims, as long as no full and final release was signed. Determining if those additional damages can be claimed, is another reason to enlist help from a Public Adjuster.

Call Your Trusted Neighbors at Altieri Insurance Consultants Sarasota!

Storm damage can be dangerous and affect your insurance claim. You don’t have to put up a good fight on your own. Call Altieri Insurance Consultants Sarasota today at (813) 247-4757 to schedule a consultation with our reliable team of public adjusters!

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