Hail / Wind: Check Your Home for Signs of Permanent Damage
/Advice From Marc Lancaric - Public Adjuster & President of Global Patriot Adjuster, LLC.
- When high winds, tornadoes, or hail hit your home, it’s smart to check for signs of permanent damage. Look for these six signs of wind-related trouble:
- New cracks in walls, especially walls near windows and doors. Cracks larger than a quarter-inch or more are a sign walls may have shifted or settled.Exterior foundation cracks or changes in the levelness indicate foundation issues have arisen.
- Plumbing problems like leaks around the water heater or water softener.
- Flush your toilets and turn on all your water faucets, then check your pipes for leaks.
- Water stains or yellowing on your ceilings over the next few weeks — clues that the roof was damaged.
- Gutters that have pulled away or are no longer sloped correctly. If you home was hit by hail:
- Check patio covers, screens, windows, and soft aluminum roofs for damage.
- Examine roof shingles (use binoculars if you can’t safely climb a ladder) for holes or dents.
- Go over vehicles looking for dents and broken or cracked glass. If you find hail or wind damage:
- Cover any broken windows and holes in your roof, as well as any broken glass on the car, to prevent further damage.
- Report your insurance claim as soon as possible; no matter what the level of damage.
- Take pictures before you make any temporary repairs.
- Keep receipts for any temporary repairs you have to make because your home owners policy may cover those costs.
- Do a reference check on any contractor you hire to repair your home. Fraudsters working home repair scams typically follow the path of storms.
