Busting Storm Damage Myths
When a storm arrives, there is little control over the consequences. But being well-informed and prepared is a great tactic to mitigate losses and prevent further property damage. Many myths often surround storm damage that causes homeowners immense loss simply due to misinformation. SERVPRO, a flood restoration service in Bedford, busts these myths to help homeowners make the right decisions at the right time when it comes to storm damage restoration.
Myth #1: Storm damage signs are always visible
Fact: Minor cracks, small punctures, or small dents are not always visible or taken seriously. However, a thorough inspection by a professional roof expert may reveal that these minor and often invisible signs of storm damage can escalate into major structural threats and sources of water damage. A roof that has not collapsed or isn’t showing visible signs of wear does not indicate it is undamaged. Once the storm is over, just a visual survey of the property is not enough. The hidden signs of roof damage can be:
- Shingle bruises
A roof shingle that gets displaced or blown away during a storm is easily noticeable, but spotting a shingle bruise would need a closer and professional eye. What are shingle bruises? They are small, dark spots on the shingles where an impact of hail causes the granules to come loose.
- Nicks & dents in soft metals
Hailstorms can cause nicks and dents in the soft metals of the roof. Ideally, after a hailstorm, the roof must be inspected for patterns that may reveal, upon closer inspection, that the shingles have been bruised as well.
- Loose granules
Roofs lose granules over time, but a storm can increase the loss of granules by a considerable margin. This often goes unnoticed as these granules are usually found on the ground or in gutters. Only a roofing professional can recognize these minor and almost invisible flaws in the roof and prevent further disintegration.
Myth #2: Roofing warranties cover all storm damage
Fact: A new roofing system does not include all storm-related warranties. Most roofing companies and manufacturers exclude storm and hail damage from roof warranties. If homeowners update the coverage, a roofing warranty will not be enough if the storm damage is undocumented and left unaddressed.
Myth #3: Avoid filing a claim to avoid an increase in premium
Fact: When a storm affects an area, an insurance company will automatically raise the home insurance rates in that area, whether a claim is filed. A property in a storm-prone area and a history of filed claims will most likely lead to a hike in the premium. When a house undergoes storm damage, it is advised to make swift insurance claims even in case of minor injuries and initiate the restoration process.
Myth #4: Minor damage doesn’t need to be claimed
Fact: A minor damage can quickly turn into a full-fledged restoration project if not addressed in time. Homeowners can make insurance claims even with a bit of damage situation. Once this minor problem changes into significant roof problems, insurance companies can deny the claim attributing negligence as the cause of damage.
Myth #5 Filing a claim can lead to the cancellation of the policy
Fact: By law, an insurance company cannot cancel a policy if the homeowner pays premiums on time.
Homeowners must contact a professional flood restoration service such as SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford for a swift and smooth restoration process. The qualified technicians will assess and document the storm damage, take necessary actions to correct the damage, and help homeowners file their insurance claims.
Why SERVPRO?
- SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford is constantly updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Hurst, Euless, Bedford, or anywhere else can quickly access the services.
- With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.
- The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and acquire regular IICRC-industry certification.
For flood restoration services, call Team Shaw of Hurst-Euless-Bedford today at (817) 595-0004 or e-mail at office@servproheb.com.
