You can’t skip boarding up after a storm and still expect your insurance claim to go smoothly.

Failing to secure your property immediately after storm damage can jeopardize your insurance coverage.

TL;DR:

  • Boarding up is a crucial step after storm damage to prevent further loss.
  • Skipping this can lead to denied insurance claims.
  • Documenting all damage and repairs is essential for your claim.
  • Contacting professionals quickly is vital for proper restoration.
  • Your insurance policy likely requires you to mitigate further damage.

Can You Skip Boarding Up After a Storm and Still Claim Insurance?

It’s a question many homeowners ask after a severe storm hits: “Can I skip boarding up after a storm and still claim insurance?” The short answer is no, you really shouldn’t. While it might seem like an extra hassle when you’re already dealing with damage, neglecting to secure your property can have serious consequences for your insurance claim. Think of it like this: your insurance policy is a contract. Part of that contract often implies you’ll take reasonable steps to prevent the damage from getting worse. Skipping essential mitigation steps like boarding up can be seen as a failure to uphold your end of the bargain.

The Importance of Mitigation: Your Insurance Company’s Perspective

Insurance companies want to see that you’ve acted responsibly. They expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage after an incident. This is known as “mitigation.” If a window is broken by high winds, leaving it open allows rain and debris to enter, causing more water damage and potentially structural issues. Your insurer might view this as preventable damage. They want to avoid paying for damage that could have been easily stopped. Boarding up windows and doors is a primary way to do this. It’s a clear sign you’re trying to protect your home.

What Does “Mitigate Further Damage” Really Mean?

Mitigating further damage means taking immediate actions to stop the problem from escalating. After a storm, this could involve:

  • Boarding up broken windows and doors.
  • Tarping damaged roofs.
  • Turning off the water supply if pipes burst.
  • Removing standing water if safe to do so.

Essentially, you’re acting like a good steward of your property, trying to minimize the mess and the cost. This is a key part of documenting damage for insurance.

When Storm Damage Strikes: What to Do First

When the storm passes and it’s safe to go outside, your first priority should be assessing the damage. Look for obvious signs like broken windows, damaged siding, or roof issues. If you notice any breaches in your home’s exterior, like holes in the roof or shattered windows, boarding them up is a critical next step. You don’t need to be a construction expert. Many homeowners find themselves asking questions before filing a claim, and mitigation is a big one. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, calling a professional restoration company is your best bet. They can often arrive quickly to secure your property.

Common Storm Damage Scenarios

Storms can bring a variety of destructive forces. High winds can rip off shingles, leaving your roof vulnerable. Heavy rain can lead to significant water intrusion. Hail can dent vehicles and damage siding. Fallen trees can cause structural damage. Recognizing what are the most common types of storm damage is the first step. Then, you can address them. For example, if you suspect storm damage around the roof, it’s vital to get it inspected and potentially tarped.

The Role of Boarding Up in Your Insurance Claim

Boarding up serves a dual purpose. First, it protects your home from further harm. Second, it provides tangible proof of your efforts to mitigate damage. When your insurance adjuster arrives, they will want to see that you took appropriate measures. A boarded-up window or a tarped roof tells them you were being proactive. This can make the claims process smoother. On the other hand, if they see a gaping hole that’s been left open for days, it can raise red flags. They might question why the damage wasn’t contained. This could lead to disputes about coverage. Proper insurance documentation after damage includes photos of the damage and your mitigation efforts.

Roof Leaks After Severe Weather: A Case Study

Imagine a strong storm hits, and you discover roof leaks after severe weather. A few shingles are missing, and water is dripping into your attic. Your insurance policy requires you to prevent further damage. If you simply wait a week for the adjuster to come, and that small leak turns into a ceiling collapse and mold growth, your insurer might deny coverage for the secondary damage. However, if you immediately call a professional to tarp the damaged roof sections, you’ve fulfilled your mitigation duty. This shows you acted quickly to prevent further water intrusion.

Documentation: Your Best Friend in an Insurance Claim

Whether you board up yourself or hire professionals, documentation is key. Take clear photos and videos of the damage before any repairs begin. Also, document the boarding-up process itself. Keep all receipts for materials or services related to securing your home. This evidence is crucial for demonstrating what documentation you need to file a storm claim. Your adjuster will need a clear picture of the situation. Remember, the goal is to provide them with enough information to process your claim efficiently and fairly. Thorough documentation helps answer what adjusters look for.

Mitigation Step Why It Matters for Insurance Potential Consequences of Skipping
Boarding up broken windows/doors Prevents further water, wind, and pest intrusion. Shows responsibility. Additional water damage, theft, vandalism, claim denial for secondary damage.
Tarping damaged roof Stops rain from entering the attic and home. Protects structure. Extensive ceiling damage, mold growth, structural rot, claim denial.
Turning off water supply Prevents flooding from burst pipes. Stops ongoing water issues. Major water damage, mold, ruined flooring and walls, claim denial.

When to Call the Professionals

Sometimes, the damage is too extensive or dangerous to handle yourself. Broken glass, unstable structures, or widespread flooding are clear signs you need professional help. Restoration companies like Durham Damage Restore Team have the experience and equipment to safely and effectively secure your property. They understand the urgency and can often respond rapidly. This is especially important if you have storm damage around roof edges that is letting water in. Getting expert advice today is always a smart move.

Making the Right Call: Questions Before Filing a Claim

Before you even contact your insurance company, ask yourself a few things. Did I take steps to prevent further damage? Do I have photos of the initial damage? Who can help me secure my home quickly? These are important questions before filing a claim. If you’re unsure about any aspect, it’s better to get professional advice. This can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Understanding what is subrogation in a water damage insurance claim is also important, but securing your property comes first.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Skip the Securing Steps

In summary, can you skip boarding up after a storm and still claim insurance? While an insurer might technically process a claim, failing to mitigate damage significantly increases the risk of denial or reduced payout. Your policy likely mandates that you take reasonable steps to protect your property. Boarding up is one of the most fundamental and effective ways to do this. It’s a clear demonstration of your commitment to minimizing loss. Don’t let a simple oversight turn into a major insurance battle. Act before it gets worse.

Checklist: Securing Your Home After a Storm

Here’s a quick checklist to help you secure your home after storm damage:

  • Assess Safety First: Ensure the area is safe to enter.
  • Document Initial Damage: Take photos/videos of all damage before touching anything.
  • Board Up Openings: Secure broken windows and doors.
  • Tarp Damaged Roofs: Cover any holes or missing shingles.
  • Address Water Intrusion: Remove standing water if safe and possible.
  • Call Professionals: If unsure or damage is severe, call a professional right away.

Conclusion

Dealing with storm damage is stressful enough without adding insurance claim complications. By understanding the importance of mitigation, especially securing your property through measures like boarding up, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful insurance claim. Remember, acting quickly and responsibly is key. If you’ve experienced storm damage and need help securing your property or assessing the damage, the Durham Damage Restore Team is a trusted resource ready to assist you. We understand the urgency and are committed to helping you navigate the restoration process with confidence.

What if I can’t afford to board up my home immediately?

If you genuinely cannot afford to board up your home, document this financial hardship. Take photos of the damage and contact your insurance company immediately. Explain your situation and ask for guidance or assistance. Some insurers may have preferred vendors or offer direct payment for emergency services. It’s crucial to communicate your limitations clearly and promptly to your insurer.

How long do I have to board up my property after a storm?

There’s no set time limit, but the key is “reasonable promptness.” The sooner you can secure your property, the better. Waiting more than 24-48 hours without a good reason, especially if damage is significant, can raise concerns for your insurance company. If you need to wait for a professional, make that call as soon as possible and document your efforts to secure assistance.

Will my insurance company pay for the boarding-up services?

Yes, typically the cost of necessary mitigation services, including professional boarding up and tarping, is covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy as part of the covered loss. This is considered a cost to prevent further damage. Keep all receipts for these services, as they will be submitted as part of your claim. This is part of documenting damage for insurance.

What if I try to board it up myself and make it worse?

If you’re not experienced with property repair, attempting DIY boarding up could potentially cause more damage or create safety hazards. It’s often safer and more effective to schedule a free inspection with a professional restoration company. They have the right tools and expertise to secure your home properly without causing further harm. They can also document the process for your claim.

Can I still file a claim if I didn’t board up my home?

You can still file a claim, but it might be more challenging. Your insurance company will assess the total damage and consider whether you took reasonable steps to mitigate further loss. If they determine that significant damage occurred because the property wasn’t secured, they may reduce the payout or deny coverage for those specific damages. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and secure your property.

Other Services