{"id":9069,"date":"2017-08-25T21:35:58","date_gmt":"2017-08-25T21:35:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/?p=9069"},"modified":"2018-09-13T17:41:03","modified_gmt":"2018-09-13T17:41:03","slug":"important-things-to-know-about-hurricane-repair","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/important-things-to-know-about-hurricane-repair","title":{"rendered":"Important things to know about Hurricane Repair"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure id=\"attachment_11725\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11725\" style=\"width: 1500px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11725\" src=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/main_1500.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1004\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/main_1500.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/main_1500-300x201.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/main_1500-768x514.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/main_1500-1024x685.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-11725\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hurricane Florence, September 12, 2018. (Alexander Gerst \/ ESA \/ NASA)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>In the wake of a destructive storm or hurricane, it&#8217;s difficult to know where to begin putting the pieces back together. While you may feel the urge to start repairing damages as soon as possible, it&#8217;s important to avoid pitfalls by equipping yourself with the right knowledge on how best to move forward.<\/p>\n<p>BuildZoom has helped many homeowners learn what to expect after natural disasters like Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Harvey, and connected them with pre-vetted, qualified contractors to help them rebuild.\u00a0 Together with contractors, insurance agents, government officials, and other industry professionals, the BuildZoom team compiled our knowledge and expertise to bring you important information on storm and hurricane repair.<\/p>\n<h3>After a storm or hurricane<\/h3>\n<h4><a href=\"#q1\">1. What are the most common kinds of property damage after a storm or hurricane?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"#q2\">2. How can a homeowner assess the damage?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"#q3\">3. What are the first things a homeowner should do?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"#q4\">4. What do homeowners need to know about hiring a licensed contractor for repairs?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"#q5\">5. What do homeowners need to know about contractor fraud, and how can it be avoided?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"#q6\">6. What kinds of repair work are most likely to be needed?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"#q7\">7. What can be done to reduce future storm or hurricane damage?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><a href=\"#q8\">8. How are storm or hurricane-related insurance claims handled?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h2>1. What are the most common kinds of property damage after a storm or hurricane?<\/h2>\n<p>In the aftermath of a major storm or hurricane, cities and communities will most likely suffer damages stemming from a combination of wind,\u00a0flooding, and storm surges.\u00a0 The predominant type of property damage varies by storm and by geography. With Hurricane Irma, many communities along the coast were affected by storm surges, which occur when the combination of tides and strong winds cause the sea level to rise and cause salt water flooding. Hurricanes with heavy rains such as Harvey, or other slow-moving storms have caused severe damages from rain flooding.\u00a0 With Hurricane Maria, sustained, ferocious winds damaged the roofs of nearly all structures in the Caribbean island nation of Dominica.<\/p>\n<h3>Roof Damage<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common home damage from a storm or hurricane is to the roof, Nicholas Maxim of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/arkbuilt-llc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ARKBuilt Contracting<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in South Carolina, tells us. Although this is typically the<\/span><b> most urgent to repair<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.hksconstruction.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HKS Remodeling &amp; Construction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in North Carolina,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> reassures us that it is not necessarily the most expensive. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Storm or hurricane force winds can severely damage roofing systems or even lift them from their decking.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim further<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">explains that the first thing wind brings down is trees and limbs, which take out roofs. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>A few things to know about roof damage:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your roofing is older or not properly installed, it is more likely to suffer serious damage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Small holes caused by storms can allow leaks, leading to serious issues including mold, structural damage and possibly even total roof collapse. <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If a roof is not fixed properly, lose membranes and edge metal can allow foreign objects, such as dirt, leaves, branches, etc., to get under the roofing membrane. This speeds up deterioration and can lead to costly future repairs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Under Florida Law, if 25 percent of a roof is damaged, the whole thing needs to be replaced, says Larry Halbert of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/halbert-contracting-co-inc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Halbert Contracting<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Flood Damage<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If there is standing water for any considerable amount of time, there is going to be damage and it will probably need to be professionally dried out, explains Doug Buck of the <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/fhba.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Home Builders Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0 Standing water can not only damage a home&#8217;s structure, but promote dangerous mold growth.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Damage to Electrical Systems<\/h3>\n<p>In addition to damage to electrical lines from falling trees or electrical poles, beware of power surges when power is restored. This inrush of electrical current can damage electronics and appliances. In the case of flooding, any electrical equipment including wires, cables, circuit panels, fuses, switches, and breakers will almost certainly need to be replaced.<\/p>\n<h3>Other Damage<\/h3>\n<p><b>Damage to gutters<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is common and can result in foundation leaks, wood rot and other serious structural issues. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Window damage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is likely, especially if they are not energy-efficient or well sealed. Poorly insulated windows may have allowed water in, which can cause mold growth and potentially structural problems. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Siding:<\/b><span id=\"q2\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> depending how old it is, storm or hurricane damage may result in the need to have it fully replaced. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, Mariel of <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.hksconstruction.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HKS Remodeling &amp; Construction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> says that foundation, sheetrock and flooring repairs are not unexpected after a storm or hurricane. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2>2. How can a homeowner assess damage after a storm or hurricane?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A homeowner should do an initial inspection for damage, but <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Randy Miller of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/carlson-enterprises-llc-fl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carlson Enterprises<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida, tells us that <\/span><b>you need a professional to assess the true extent of damages.<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/romeos-roofing-llc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Romeo&#8217;s Roofing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida, warns \u201cwhile some damage is easily noticed, some hidden damage can take weeks or months to appear.\u201d A qualified professional can identify such damage and prevent it from worsening. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Damage assessment checklist: <\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Walk around the outside. <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check if it is structurally sound by looking at the foundation and walls for settling and cracks. <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look at the trees around your property for damaged trunks and broken branches that could fall onto your home. <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you determine it is safe to enter, listen for any shifting or unusual noises, or the smell of gas. Leave immediately if you notice these things and call a professional inspector to check if it is safe to re-enter. <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep an eye out for exposed wires; if you see any, stay clear and call a licensed electrician.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Homeowners should <\/span><b>check exterior <\/b><b><i>and<\/i><\/b><b> interior roofing. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following could be signs of serious roof damage requiring the services of a trained contractor:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Missing shingles <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cracked skylights<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visible damage to gutters<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Damage to downspouts or the metal edge around the roof<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span id=\"q3\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dents or damage to exterior HVAC units <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water stains on the ceiling<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doug Buck of the <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/fhba.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Home Builders Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, also advises homeowners that if they have been in a disaster such as this, they can contact <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FEMA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, who will send someone out to do a damage assessment. Depending on income and county, homeowners may be eligible for FEMA assistance or uninsured loss.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>3. What are the first things a homeowner should do after a storm or hurricane?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local Florida insurance agent Michelle Delaney urges homeowners to take <\/span><b>pictures of all damage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and make an inventory. Contact your insurance agent to <\/span><b>report damage immediately.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Some companies will require an adjuster&#8217;s approval before work can be done. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/rj-group-inc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">RJ Group<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida recommends homeowners contact their insurance before beginning the process to hire a contractor. This will speed up the entire rebuilding process, so the sooner you begin, the better.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is very important to <\/span><b>mitigate further damage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by immediately making temporary repairs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nicholas Maxim of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/arkbuilt-llc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ARKBuilt Contracting<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in South Carolina, urges homeowners to <\/span><b>\u201cseal up their homes\u201d\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cover damaged roofs with a tarp to protect against future weather and keep animals out.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Board up all damaged windows.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim stresses that homeowners should have a professional <\/span><b>check the air quality<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> inside their homes. If the house took on moisture, especially in warm and humid climates, mold spores can grow and quickly affect one\u2019s health. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Remove all standing water<\/b><span id=\"q4\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and clean up and remove any mud and water soaked belongings. Damp areas, if left too long, can cause dangerous mold to grow and cause structural problems. Consider using a dehumidifier and\/or opening windows to help dry the home out and get the air inside moving around. Do not enter any standing water in the basement until a utility company, the fire department, or licensed electrician has removed your home&#8217;s electrical meter from its socket.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At this point, you should wait for the insurance adjuster to come in, and then get to work on the larger repairs. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2>4. What do homeowners need to know about hiring a licensed contractor for repairs after a storm or hurricane?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most important things you can do when repairing your home after a storm or hurricane is to<\/span><b> hire a responsible, local, and licensed contractor.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Local contractors<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> have a better understanding of the local permitting process and local building codes. Many towns require local business licenses in order to perform construction work. Further, if someone has done repeat work in your local area it is a good sign that they are not fraudulent. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>A good contractor should be able to take care of all repairs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, leaving homeowners free to handle other matters, says Randy Miller of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/carlson-enterprises-llc-fl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carlson Enterprises<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">He adds that if a home only has roof damage, homeowners can get away with only hiring a roofer, but if there is any interior damage, a good general contractor is necessary. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When general contractors take care of storm or hurricane repairs that doesn\u2019t mean they won\u2019t hire subcontractors. Mariel of <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.hksconstruction.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HKS Remodeling &amp; Construction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in North Carolina, advises that<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> sometimes \u201cit can be wise, as far as roof damage, to find an actual roofer, especially depending on the extent. There are great local companies around here that specialize in that and being that it covers your home, you want to make sure it is done properly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Licensing requirements<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> vary by state, but are generally set <\/span><b>standards for contractors and are designed to protect homeowners. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Throughout the United States, you can use BuildZoom to verify that a contractor is licensed by finding the contractor\u2019s profile page and checking their license information on the right side of the page. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia, <\/span><b>contractors <\/b><b><i>must<\/i><\/b><b> hold an active license<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to pull permits and perform construction work. Further, hiring a licensed contractor usually offers consumer protection through recovery funds in case of faulty work. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some localities have further requirements. And in certain areas, such as Hilton Head Island, SC, Maxim says state police are there to enforce these regulations, issue fines and kick people off the Island for non-compliance. <\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Florida License Requirements and Assurances:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.myfloridalicense.com\/dbpr\/Pro\/cilb\/index.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Florida Construction Industry License Board<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> requires that all licensed contractors have four years of work experience, pass a board examination, demonstrate financial stability and hold public liability and property damage insurance. As of 2007, contractors must submit their fingerprints for a criminal background check. It is especially important to verify a contractor&#8217;s license in Florida, as <\/span><b>only homeowners who hire a licensed contractor have access to the Florida Homeowners Construction Recovery Fund.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Georgia License Requirements and Assurances:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.contractors-license.org\/ga\/ga.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Georgia Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> requires that applicants have relevant work experience, pass an examination, provide their social security numbers, and consent to a criminal background check. General contractors must hold general liability insurance of at least $500,000 and residential contractors are required to hold general liability insurance of at least $300,000. \u00a0Note that in Georgia, <\/span><b>if the homeowner files building permits it could make them responsible for all liability and insurances, and ineligible for help from the state.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>North Carolina License Requirements and Assurances:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In North Carolina it is highly important to hire a contractor licensed by <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nclbgc.org\/lic_fr.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><b>Only homeowners who have hired a licensed contractor have access to the Homeowners Recovery Fund<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> if they suffer financial loss because of a contractor\u2019s dishonest or incompetent work.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>South Carolina License Requirements and Assurances:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.llr.state.sc.us\/pol\/contractors\/\"><span id=\"q5\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\">South Carolina Contractor&#8217;s Licensing Board<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> requires contractors to have at least two years of relevant experience, pass a technical, \u00a0business management and law examination and prove financial stability.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hiring locally helps ensure contractors have experience with the type of damage that has occurred and knows the best materials and practices to mitigate future problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>5. What do homeowners need to know about contractor fraud, and how can it be avoided in a storm or hurricane?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">W<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hen storms or hurricanes strike, unethical individuals often show up offering too-good-to-be-true deals to repair homes. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nicbblog.org\/2016\/10\/05\/hurricane-matthew-could-bring-a-storm-of-fraudsters\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> warns of contractor scams following severe storms or hurricanes. <\/span><b>\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While some of these \u2018storm chasers\u2019 are from out of town, Michelle Delaney of <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lrainsurance.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LRA Insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> warns that other opportunists may be local.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Scammers canvas neighborhoods and might promise quick work for cash upfront, or even to pay your insurance deductible.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This may sound good, but it could cost you! If the contractor is dishonest, they might run off with your money, or use inferior materials and work that is not up to code. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>It is on the homeowner to make sure they are working with a qualified, licensed contractor! <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Delaney says that if you hire an unlicensed individual who disappears without performing the work, or performs it poorly, there is no recourse through insurance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>The following suggestions can help you identify skilled, local contractors:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First thing to do is always ask for their <\/span><b>license<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If there is any reason they don\u2019t show it to you, say goodbye. &#8211; <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim of <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/arkbuilt-llc\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ARKBuilt Contracting<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in South Carolina<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Equally as important is to demand <\/span><b>proof of insurance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and worker\u2019s compensation policies. &#8211; <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Larry Halbert of <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/halbert-contracting-co-inc\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Halbert Contracting<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Run a <\/span><b>background check<\/b> <b>and check ratings <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">with the Better Business Bureau. &#8211; <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keith Abacus of \u00a0<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/abacus-carpentry-llc\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abacus Contracting LLC<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask for <\/span><b>references<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of similar <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">local<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> work. This signals if the contractor is stepping outside their area of expertise. &#8211; <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use someone who is a member of <\/span><b>trade associations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201c[They] tend to have better community relations and really care about getting the job done right.\u201d <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doug Buck of the <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/fhba.com\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Home Builders Association<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find a contractor certified by multiple manufacturers. &#8211; <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Randy Miller of <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/carlson-enterprises-llc-fl\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carlson Enterprises<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hire someone with at least <\/span><b>5 years experience.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abacus<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a contractor that <\/span><b>guarantees<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> their work. Guarantees are typically 1-5 years. <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; <\/span><\/i><a href=\"http:\/\/www.hksconstruction.com\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HKS Remodeling &amp; Construction<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in North Carolina <\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t use someone that requires a deposit upfront, or at least never more than 20%. <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Buck<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never make checks out to individuals. <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abacus<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get at least <\/span><b>3 estimates.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This is not only good practice, but may be required by insurance. And if a contractor gives you this advice, it is a good sign they are honest. &#8211; <\/span><i><span id=\"q6\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cAlways use a contract.\u201d Get everything in writing, including costs, work to be done, materials, guarantees, timeline and payment schedule. &#8211; <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buck<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be wary of high pressure sales tactics and never be pushed into signing a contract right away. <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never sign a contract with blanks. <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not sign a certificate of completion until the work is truly finished.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[box]<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Find a contractor you can trust for free through BuildZoom<\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Contractor scams are rampant after every natural disaster. We do the legwork of pre-vetting contractors by checking their licensing and insurance information, their work history, and reviews so you can hire with confidence.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[button link=&#8221;www.buildzoom.com&#8221;]Get Started[\/button]<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">[\/box]<\/p>\n<h2>6. What kinds of repair work are most likely to be needed after a storm or hurricane?<\/h2>\n<h3>Roof repairs<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Generally, repairing the roof is the first and most important thing to do. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is also the most important one to have done right<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Nicholas Maxim of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/arkbuilt-llc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ARKBuilt Contracting<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in South Carolina, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">adds that roof work is very susceptible to fraud &#8211; not necessarily in terms of the materials used, but due to poor workmanship. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Multiple contractors advise homeowners to use \u2018<\/span><b>lifetime shingles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u2019 Maxim<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">explains that workers must be certified to install these, so homeowners get a guarantee on both the material and installation. <\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Structural repairs<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Structural repairs will likely be the most expensive. It is vitally important to use an experienced contractor for all structural work. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Do not cheap out on structural work<\/b> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keith Abacus of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/abacus-carpentry-llc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abacus Contracting LLC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> warns. If a contractor finds structural damage, the home will need to become code compliant. Maxim adds that in many affected areas, the code has changed recently, such as the requirement that windows have to have a certain storm\/impact ratio. \u00a0<\/span><b>If you have a trustworthy contractor, they will know the code requirements. <\/b><\/p>\n<h3>Adding on work<\/h3>\n<p><b>I<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">t is often <\/span><b>cost effective to tack on projects<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> while repairing storm or hurricane damage, something Abacus and Maxim agrees on. If there is work a homeowner has been considering in the area where repairs must be made, it could make sense to do them simultaneously.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span id=\"q7\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, if someone has a hole in their roof it might be worthwhile to replace the entire roof if it is old enough. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.hksconstruction.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HKS Remodeling &amp; Construction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in North Carolina, reminds homeowners however that insurance will only cover the cost of the repairs from storms or hurricane damage, any surplus costs arising from additional projects will come from the homeowners\u2019 pocket. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2>7. What can be done to reduce future storm or hurricane damage?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All work done on a home should make it as <\/span><b>waterproofed<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as possible, says Maxim. This includes siding, concrete, and that subareas are correctly vented. He also advises homeowners to be aware of the flashing around all openings, something he often sees contractors cut corners on.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, it is not necessarily materials that can help you reduce future damage, but <\/span><b>quality workmanship<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maxim stresses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most important thing to protect against damage is follow the code. <\/span><b>\u201cThe code is everything\u201d and a quality contractor will know and apply it,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> says Doug Buck of the <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/fhba.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Home Builders Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Code requirements are written to protect against probable disasters.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cAs far as limiting damage, it\u2019s not more code, but more <\/span><b>code compliance\u201d<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that is needed, Buck explains. The majority of avoidable damage that occurs during a storm or hurricane is due to non-compliance by contractors and building inspectors. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of course, for a high price you <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">can <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">do more than the code, but Buck advises that it\u2019s not worth it from a cost-benefit perspective. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Randy Miller of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/carlson-enterprises-llc-fl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carlson Enterprises<\/span><\/a><span id=\"q8\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida, further explains that unfortunately, when it comes to strong storms or hurricanes, at a certain point it is simply tough to prevent damage. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, adding extra protection can be done on a case by case basis depending on a number of factors, such as the type of house and distance to the coast. A qualified contractor will know the options.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>8. How are storm or hurricane-related insurance claims handled?<\/h2>\n<h3>Who is responsible for contacting insurance?<\/h3>\n<p><b>The homeowner is responsible <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">for working with their insurance company, not the contractor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> contractors will have contact with the insurance company and its agents, but it depends on the situation says <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.hksconstruction.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HKS Remodeling &amp; Construction<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in North Carolina. And as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/rj-group-inc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">RJ Group<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Florida explains, many contractor businesses are simply not designed to navigate the insurance procedure on behalf of a client. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But Doug Buck, <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/fhba.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Home Builders Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, points out that contractors play a key role in empowering homeowners to<\/span><b> negotiate with insurance companies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. After disasters, labor and material shortages raise prices, sometimes above what insurance companies initially offer to pay. Contractors can provide homeowners with the information <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to get the necessary amount in light of the current situation. <\/span><\/p>\n<h3>When should homeowners contact their insurance companies?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cThis is a time when insurance companies really shine, when people are in need after such a disaster\u201d local Orlando, FL insurance agent Michelle Delaney says. Homeowners should not hesitate to contact their agents immediately. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Insurance companies limit the time to file a claim<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, usually 12-24 months, warns Delaney. Even if you don\u2019t see any damage, it is better to get a professional inspection, than to find hidden damage later that is no longer covered. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Document all damage with photos <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and begin the insurance process as soon as possible, or risk slowing down repairs. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some companies require an adjuster&#8217;s approval before work can begin, so <\/span><b>the sooner you start, the better.<\/b><\/p>\n<h3>What should homeowners know about insurance payments?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insurance will only pay for the damage caused by the initial storm or hurricane, so Delaney reminds homeowners that they must<\/span><b> mitigate further damage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from happening immediately. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keith Abacus of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/contractor\/abacus-carpentry-llc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abacus Contracting<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> LLC in Florida, says that often insurance companies require at least <\/span><b>three quotes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from different contractors. \u00a0And some might guarantee the work of only some contractors. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doug Buck, <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/fhba.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Home Builders Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, gives homeowners a heads up that if they have a mortgage, the insurance check may be written out to the homeowner <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the bank. This is to ensure the money is spent on home repairs, but may add another step to receiving the money. <\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In the wake of a destructive storm or hurricane, it&#8217;s difficult to know where to begin putting the pieces back together. While you may feel the urge to start repairing damages as soon as possible, it&#8217;s important to avoid pitfalls by equipping yourself with the right knowledge on how best to move forward. BuildZoom has [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3005,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[56],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-9069","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-guides","entry","has-post-thumbnail"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9069","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3005"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9069"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9069\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9069"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9069"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.buildzoom.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9069"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}