How to Protect a Home From a Hurricane

By: Elizabeth K
Submitted: 2008-10-07 18:10:14
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In recent years homeowners have been subjected to increased risk from flood and water damage as Mother Nature continues an active storm cycle and insurance companies reduce flood coverage. Learn how to protect your home from hurricane damage with these quick tips:

1.Check your insurance policy. The first step is to make sure you have coverage and understand any exclusions or limitations. For example, water damage due to high winds is very different than water damage due to storm surge or regular flooding.  It’s also a good idea to plan early; once a storm is named, most insurance policies forbid writing new policies. Those who wait until the last minute often find themselves without coverage.

2.Implement an immediate plan of action. If you experience water related damage due to a flood or hurricane it is important to act fast. Mold and mildew can begin growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours.  Always make sure the electricity to the home is turned off at the breaker box before doing anything. Once you are confident your personal safety is taken care of then it is time to go into action. Eliminate contaminated furniture, remove excess water and contact a company that is certified to deal with insurance claims for water restoration and renovation services. Commonly encountered problems include:

·Properly performed repairs to wood floors, drywall, cabinets, underlayment and other building materials.

·Proper cleaning of water damaged furniture, drapes, carpeting and even insulation or other materials in the home.

·Proper disinfecting of air vents and elimination of bacteria, mold, mildew and other contaminates.

3.Keep copies of everything! Make copies of your insurance policy, contact phone numbers, photographs of belongings and other essential documents on hand or in a safe deposit box. Remember, you may need to leave on short notice so keep it in a convenient location. If you have storm related damage, contact the insurance company as soon as possible to begin scheduling cleaning and remediation services.

4.Don’t underestimate storms. During any crisis there are those who simply don’t believe it will “be that bad” and others who are in denial. Chances are when you think of flood damage Houston doesn’t come to mind…but recent media coverage has shown the tremendous amount of water damage Houston residents are now dealing with. Obviously it can and does happen anywhere – even Houston Texas. Listen to the media coverage and take appropriate action before the storm strikes to preserve the health of your family and pets first then deal with insurance claims and cleaning later by calling a company like Kiwi Services who is able to handle all your cleaning, extraction and restoration services with just one call.

Article source: Expert Articles