In the midst of a storm, the last thing anyone wants to think about is the potential damage to their home. Yet, nature can be unpredictable, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, trees can fall and cause significant damage. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.
1. Prioritize Safety: Evacuate the Premises
The very first step, without any hesitation, should be to ensure the safety of everyone inside the house. If a tree or a large branch has fallen onto your home, it’s crucial to evacuate immediately. Having a pre-established evacuation plan can be a lifesaver in such situations. This plan should be practiced and known by every member of the household. Additionally, consider preparing an emergency kit with essential items like important documents, cash, and car keys. This ensures that you can leave your home quickly, with everything you might need, until it’s safe to return.
2. Alert the Authorities: Dial 911
Once you’re in a safe location, it’s imperative to call 911. Even if the damage seems minimal, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Climbing onto a damaged roof, especially during adverse weather conditions, can be extremely hazardous. Not only is there a risk of slipping, but the structural integrity of the roof might also be compromised. Emergency services will provide guidance on the next steps and might dispatch a team to assess the situation, ensuring there’s no risk of fire, electrical hazards, or other dangers.
3. Inform Your Insurance Provider
After ensuring everyone’s safety and alerting the authorities, your next call should be to your insurance company. They will guide you on the necessary steps to claim any damages. It’s essential to understand the specifics of your policy, as coverage can vary based on the circumstances. For instance, if a healthy tree was uprooted due to a storm, the insurance might cover the damages. However, if a decaying tree that should have been removed earlier causes the damage, the claim might be affected. Always document the damage with photos from various angles, as this can expedite the claim process.
4. Seek Expertise: Contact a Reputable Roofing Contractor
When faced with such emergencies, it’s tempting to go with the first available contractor. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re working with a trustworthy professional. Super Eagle Roofing, a leading roofing contractor in Ames IA, recommends always doing your research and having a go-to contractor in mind for such emergencies. This not only ensures quality work but also protects you from potential scams.
5. Secure Your Home
If the damage is extensive and repairs will take time, you might not be able to reside in your home immediately. In such cases, ensure all entry points, like doors and windows, are locked. Secure any valuables to prevent potential break-ins during your absence.
Remember, while a fallen tree can be daunting, the safety of you and your loved ones is paramount. Always let professionals, like Super Eagle Roofing, handle the situation. With expertise in roof repair in Ames IA, they can ensure your home is restored to its former glory.
If you find yourself in need of emergency roofing services in the Ames IA area, don’t hesitate to reach out to Super Eagle Roofing, a top-tier roofing company in Ames IA. Their team of experts is always ready to assist in any roofing emergency.
If you want to learn how to deal with lightning damage to your roof, click here.