Storm Damage Inspections: Why Act Fast

Severe storms can leave your home vulnerable to hidden damage that, if left unchecked, can lead to costly repairs or safety hazards. Whether it’s high winds, heavy rain, hail, or flooding, it’s essential to act fast after a storm and schedule a professional storm damage inspection. At 1st Choice Inspection Services TREC#9175, we specialize in storm damage inspections to help homeowners identify problems early and protect their investment.

Here’s why it’s critical to act quickly after a storm and what you can expect from a storm damage inspection.

Storm damage may not always be immediately visible, especially from the ground, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Taking quick action after a storm ensures that any damage is identified and addressed before it worsens. Here’s why acting fast is crucial:

1. Prevent Further Damage

Even minor damage, such as missing shingles or small cracks, can lead to more serious problems if not addressed promptly. For example, a few missing shingles might seem harmless, but they can leave your roof exposed to leaks that cause water damage, mold growth, or structural decay.

Scheduling an inspection right after a storm allows a professional to spot these issues early, helping you avoid larger repairs down the road. By catching problems quickly, you can prevent further damage to your roof, walls, and foundation.

2. File an Insurance Claim on Time

Most homeowner’s insurance policies require you to file claims within a specific timeframe after a storm. Delaying your inspection could cause you to miss this window, making it more difficult to get coverage for repairs. Insurance companies may also deny claims if they believe the damage has worsened due to neglect or failure to act quickly.

A professional inspection gives you the documentation you need to support your claim, including a detailed report and photos of the damage. By acting fast, you ensure that you can submit your claim in a timely manner and avoid any disputes with your insurer.

3. Uncover Hidden Issues

Not all storm damage is visible from the ground. Hail can dent shingles or gutters, high winds can loosen flashing, and heavy rain can cause leaks that aren’t immediately obvious. While you might not notice any issues right away, that doesn’t mean your home hasn’t sustained damage.

A trained inspector will climb onto the roof, check the attic, and thoroughly inspect every part of your home for signs of storm damage that may go unnoticed. This includes checking for:

• Roof damage: Missing, cracked, or dented shingles, flashing issues, or loose roof components
• Siding and windows: Cracks, dents, or broken seals that could allow water intrusion
• Foundation and drainage: Flooding or erosion around the foundation, which could cause cracks or settling

By uncovering hidden damage early, you can address issues before they turn into costly repairs.

4. Protect Your Home’s Value

Your home is one of your largest investments, and protecting its value is essential. Storm damage, if left unaddressed, can lead to long-term problems that devalue your property. For example, water leaks can weaken structural elements, lead to mold growth, and cause extensive rot that can compromise the integrity of your home.

A storm damage inspection helps you maintain your home’s value by ensuring that any issues are repaired promptly and correctly. Whether you plan to stay in your home long-term or sell it in the future, addressing storm damage quickly protects your investment and prevents depreciation.

A storm damage inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s condition after a severe weather event. At 1st Choice Inspection Services, we follow a thorough process to ensure that every part of your home is inspected for potential damage.

1. Roof Inspection

Your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during a storm. Inspectors will climb onto the roof to assess the condition of the shingles, flashing, and other roofing materials. They’ll look for signs of:

• Missing or damaged shingles: High winds and hail can easily tear off or crack shingles, leaving your roof exposed to water damage.
• Hail damage: Hailstones can cause dents or cracks in shingles, which may not be visible from the ground but can still compromise the roof’s integrity.
• Flashing damage: The metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is prone to loosening during storms, creating gaps where water can seep in.

2. Attic and Ceiling Inspection

Inspecting the attic is a critical step in identifying storm damage that may not be visible from the exterior. The inspector will check the attic for signs of:

• Leaks: Water stains, damp insulation, or moisture buildup can indicate a roof leak caused by storm damage.
• Mold: If water has penetrated the roof, mold can start to grow in the attic, creating health hazards and further structural damage.
• Structural damage: The inspector will also check for signs that the roof’s support structure has been compromised by heavy wind or rain.

3. Exterior Inspection

The exterior of your home, including the siding, windows, and doors, can take a beating during a storm. Inspectors will check for:

• Cracks, dents, or holes: Hailstones or flying debris can cause damage to siding and windows, leading to water intrusion.
• Broken seals on windows: If the seal around windows has been broken, moisture can enter the home, leading to fogging, leaks, or wood rot.
• Gutter and downspout damage: Inspectors will also evaluate the condition of your gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re properly directing water away from the foundation.

4. Foundation and Drainage Inspection

Flooding or heavy rain can cause erosion or water pooling around your home’s foundation, leading to cracks or settling. Inspectors will:

• Check for standing water: Water pooling around the foundation is a red flag that drainage issues need to be addressed.
• Inspect for cracks: Cracks in the foundation or walls can indicate shifting or settling due to water damage.

Evaluate drainage systems: The inspector will also assess whether your home’s drainage systems, such as gutters and downspouts, are effectively channeling water away from the foundation.

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any damage found and recommendations for repairs. Here’s what to do next:

1. File Your Insurance Claim

If the inspection reveals storm damage, your next step is to file an insurance claim. The report from the inspection will provide the documentation you need to support your claim. Be sure to file the claim within your policy’s timeframe to avoid any issues with coverage.

2. Schedule Repairs Promptly

It’s important to address any repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage. For example, roof repairs should be prioritized to avoid leaks that could lead to water damage inside your home. At 1st Choice Inspection Services, we can recommend trusted contractors who specialize in storm damage repairs to help you get your home back to its original condition.

3. Maintain Regular Inspections

While a storm damage inspection is essential after severe weather, it’s also a good idea to schedule regular inspections to ensure your home stays in good condition. By keeping up with inspections and maintenance, you can catch minor issues before they become major problems, protecting your home and investment over the long term.