12/21/2025
Contact us and we'll give you an honest quote. Veteran owned family business based out of Stayton, Or....Licensed, Bonded, & Insured.
If your home has been damaged by a storm, your recovery depends on taking swift, documented actions to protect both your safety and your financial interests.
Immediate Safety Measures
• Check for Hazards: Before entering, inspect for downed power lines, gas leaks (smell of sulfur), or structural instability.
• Utility Shutdown: If it is safe to do so, turn off the main gas, water, and electricity valves to prevent fire or further flooding.
• Avoid Standing Water: Treat all floodwater as contaminated and keep away from electrical outlets if water levels are high.
Essential Recovery Steps
1. Document Everything: Take extensive photos and videos of all damage—both structural (roof, windows, siding) and personal property (furniture, electronics)—before moving or cleaning anything.
2. Mitigate Further Damage: You are responsible for preventing further loss. Use blue tarps for roof holes or plywood for broken windows, but do not make permanent repairs until an adjuster inspects the site.
3. Contact Insurance Immediately: Report the claim as soon as possible. Standard policies typically cover wind and hail, but flood damage often requires a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
4. Save All Receipts: Keep track of spending on emergency repairs, cleaning supplies, and "Additional Living Expenses" (ALE) like hotel stays if your home is uninhabitable.
5. Seek Federal Assistance: If you are in a federally declared disaster area, apply for aid through FEMA or consider a low-interest disaster loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Warning Signs of Hidden Damage
Beyond obvious destruction, look for these subtle indicators:
• Water Stains: Discoloration on ceilings or walls that may indicate a slow roof leak.
• Sticking Doors: Windows or doors that suddenly stick can signal a structural shift in the foundation.
• Gutter Debris: Shingle granules in your gutters often mean significant roof wear from hail or wind.