Storm Season Prep: Finding Emergency Contractors

When severe weather strikes, the aftermath can leave homeowners scrambling to find reliable contractors for emergency repairs. Storm damage doesn’t wait for business hours, and the clock starts ticking the moment your roof starts leaking or a tree crashes through your window. Having a plan and knowing how to find trustworthy emergency contractors before disaster strikes can save you thousands of dollars and prevent further damage to your home.

This comprehensive guide helps you prepare for storm season, understand what constitutes an emergency, and connect with qualified contractors when you need them most.

Understanding Storm Season in Your Region

Storm risks vary by location and season:

Hurricane Season

• When: June 1 – November 30 (Atlantic)
• Peak: August – October
• Affected areas: Gulf Coast, Atlantic Coast, Caribbean
• Common damage: Roof damage, flooding, wind damage, fallen trees

Tornado Season

• When: March – June (peak), but can occur year-round
• Peak: April – June
• Affected areas: Tornado Alley (Great Plains), Southeast
• Common damage: Complete destruction, structural damage, debris impact

Severe Thunderstorm Season

• When: Spring and summer (varies by region)
• Peak: May – August
• Affected areas: Nationwide
• Common damage: Hail damage, wind damage, lightning strikes, flooding

Winter Storm Season

• When: November – March
• Peak: January – February
• Affected areas: Northern states, elevated areas
• Common damage: Ice dams, roof collapse, frozen pipes, power outages

Wildfire Season

• When: Varies by region (typically summer/fall)
• Peak: July – October (Western states)
• Affected areas: Western US, California especially
• Common damage: Fire damage, smoke damage, ash contamination

Know your region’s risks and prepare accordingly.

Common Storm Damage Requiring Emergency Contractors

1. Roof Damage

Signs of emergency:

• Active leaks (water entering home)
• Missing shingles or large sections of roof
• Visible holes or punctures
• Collapsed or sagging sections
• Damaged flashing around chimneys/vents

Immediate action:

• Place buckets to catch water
• Move valuables away from leaks
• Document damage with photos/video
• Call emergency roofing contractor
• Request temporary tarp if rain continues

Typical emergency costs: $500-$2,000 for temporary repairs; full repairs vary widely

2. Tree Damage

Emergency situations:

• Tree on house or structure
• Tree blocking entry/exit
• Tree on power lines
• Hanging branches (widow makers)
• Tree threatening to fall

Immediate action:

• Evacuate if structure is compromised
• Call 911 if power lines involved
• Don’t touch tree or debris near power lines
• Contact emergency tree service
• Call insurance company

Typical costs: $500-$5,000+ depending on size and complexity

3. Water Intrusion and Flooding

Emergency signs:

• Active flooding in home
• Water from ceiling
• Sewage backup
• Standing water in basement
• Wet walls or floors

Critical timeline: Mold begins growing in 24-48 hours

Immediate action:

• Shut off water if from plumbing
• Turn off electricity if water near outlets
• Remove standing water if safe
• Call emergency plumber or water restoration company
• Document everything for insurance

Typical costs: $1,000-$10,000+ depending on extent

4. Window and Door Damage

Emergency situations:

• Broken windows (security and weather exposure)
• Doors that won’t close/lock
• Shattered glass
• Large holes in exterior walls

Immediate action:

• Cover openings with plywood or plastic
• Secure valuables
• Call glass repair or general contractor
• Board up for security

Typical costs: $200-$1,500 per window/door

5. Structural Damage

Critical signs:

• Collapsed walls or roof
• Visible foundation cracks
• Sagging ceilings or floors
• Shifted framing
• Building not safe to enter

Immediate action:

• Evacuate immediately
• Call 911 if anyone trapped
• Contact structural engineer
• Call insurance company
• Find temporary housing

Typical costs: $5,000-$100,000+ depending on severity

6. Electrical Hazards

Emergency situations:

• Sparking outlets or panel
• Burning smell from electrical
• Exposed wiring
• Power lines down on property
• Water near electrical panel

Immediate action:

• Turn off power at main panel if safe
• Call utility company for downed lines
• Call emergency electrician
• Don’t touch water near electrical
• Evacuate if fire risk

Typical costs: $200-$2,000 for emergency service

7. Gas Line Damage

Critical emergency:

• Gas smell (rotten eggs)
• Hissing sound near gas lines
• Dead vegetation near gas lines
• Physical damage to gas meter

Immediate action:

• Evacuate immediately
• Don’t turn lights on/off
• Don’t use phones inside
• Call gas company from outside
• Call 911
• Don’t return until cleared

This is a life-threatening emergency. Always evacuate.

Pre-Storm Preparation: Finding Contractors Before You Need Them

The best time to find contractors is before the storm hits.

1. Research and Vet Contractors in Advance

Create your emergency contractor list now:

Essential contacts to have:

• Emergency roofing contractor
• 24/7 plumber
• Emergency electrician
• Tree removal service
• Water restoration company
• General contractor
• Structural engineer
• Insurance agent contact info

How to find qualified contractors:

• Ask neighbors and friends for recommendations
• Check online reviews (Google, Yelp, Angi)
• Verify licenses with state licensing board
• Confirm 24/7 emergency service availability
• Ensure they have insurance
• Check Better Business Bureau ratings
• Look for established local businesses

Questions to ask before an emergency:

• “Do you offer 24/7 emergency service?”
• “What’s your typical emergency response time?”
• “Are your emergency rates different from regular rates?”
• “What geographic area do you serve?”
• “How do you handle insurance claims?”
• “Can I add my name to your emergency call list?”

2. Verify Credentials Now

Don’t wait until after a storm to verify:

Check for:

• ✅ Valid contractor license (check state database)
• ✅ Current liability insurance
• ✅ Workers’ compensation insurance
• ✅ Physical business address (not just P.O. box)
• ✅ Established history (at least 3-5 years)
• ✅ Good online reviews
• ✅ Better Business Bureau rating
• ✅ References you can contact

Create a file with:

• Contact information
• License numbers
• Insurance certificates
• Service area information
• Emergency phone numbers
• Normal vs. emergency rates

3. Understand Emergency Service Costs

Emergency rates are higher—here’s why:

• After-hours availability
• Immediate response required
• Temporary fixes to prevent further damage
• Higher risk working in dangerous conditions
• Pulling workers from other jobs

Typical emergency premiums:

• 1.5x to 2x regular rates
• Additional trip charges: $100-$300
• Weekend/holiday surcharges: 25-50% more
• Night service (after 8 PM): Additional 25-50%

What’s reasonable:

• Emergency trip charge: $150-$300
• Temporary tarp installation: $200-$1,000
• Emergency board-up: $300-$800
• Emergency plumbing: $150-$400/hour
• Emergency electrical: $150-$300/hour
• Emergency tree removal: Premium rates vary

What’s price gouging:

• Rates 3x+ normal pricing
• Requiring 50%+ deposit for emergency work
• Cash-only demands
• Extremely high “emergency fees” on top of work
• Pressure to sign contracts immediately

4. Know Your Insurance Coverage

Review your policy before storm season:

Understand:

• Your deductibles (regular vs. hurricane)
• Coverage limits
• What’s covered vs. excluded
• Claims process and timeline
• Emergency repairs coverage
• Temporary housing coverage
• Additional living expenses

Ask your insurance agent:

• “What’s covered under storm damage?”
• “Do I have a separate wind/hail deductible?”
• “Can I make emergency repairs before adjuster visits?”
• “What documentation do you need?”
• “Do you have preferred contractors?”
• “What’s my out-of-pocket maximum?”

Document everything:

• Take photos/video of your home before storm season
• Keep receipts for home improvements
• Maintain inventory of valuables
• Store documents in waterproof container
• Keep digital copies in cloud storage

During the Storm: Safety First

Never prioritize property over safety.

Before the Storm Hits

• Charge all phones and devices
• Fill bathtubs with water (in case water shut off)
• Move vehicles to safe locations
• Bring outdoor furniture inside
• Turn refrigerator to coldest setting
• Have flashlights, batteries ready
• Know evacuation routes
• Have cash on hand (ATMs may not work)

During Active Storm

• Stay inside, away from windows
• Go to interior room on lowest floor
• Have weather radio or phone alerts
• Don’t use candles (fire risk)
• Stay off phones unless emergency
• Don’t go outside to assess damage

Immediately After Storm

• Wait for all-clear from authorities
• Watch for downed power lines
• Assume all lines are live
• Don’t walk through standing water
• Wear sturdy shoes, gloves
• Be cautious of structural damage
• Take photos/video of all damage
• Don’t enter if structure appears unsafe

Post-Storm: Finding Emergency Contractors

Step 1: Assess and Prioritize Damage

Immediate emergencies (call right away):

• Active water intrusion
• Structural instability
• Electrical hazards
• Gas leaks
• Compromised security (broken windows/doors)

Urgent but not immediate (call within 24 hours):

• Roof damage (no active leaks)
• Minor water damage
• Damaged gutters
• Broken fences
• Cosmetic damage

Can wait (call within week):

• Landscaping damage
• Siding damage (minor)
• Cosmetic repairs
• Non-urgent clean-up

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company

Call before making major repairs:

• Report damage within 24-48 hours
• Ask about emergency repair approval
• Get claim number
• Ask when adjuster will visit
• Clarify what you can fix immediately
• Ask about contractor requirements

Emergency repairs usually covered:

• Tarping roof to prevent further damage
• Boarding broken windows
• Extracting standing water
• Securing property

Document everything:

• Take extensive photos and video
• Don’t throw away damaged items yet
• Keep receipts for emergency repairs
• Track all expenses
• Note conversations with insurance

Step 3: Finding Contractors After a Storm

Your pre-storm contractor list:

• Start with contractors you researched in advance
• Call your preferred choices first
• Be prepared for delays (high demand)
• Have backup options

If you don’t have a pre-established list:

Trusted sources:

• Insurance company referrals (but you’re not required to use them)
• Neighbors who had quick responses
• Local building supply stores
• Municipal building departments
• Professional associations (roofing, plumbing, electrical)

Where NOT to find contractors:

• Door-to-door solicitors after storms
• Unlicensed “storm chasers”
• Out-of-state contractors with no local presence
• Anyone offering immediate cash discounts
• Contractors with no verifiable business

Step 4: Vetting Emergency Contractors

Even in an emergency, verify:

Red flags to avoid:

• ❌ No local address or license
• ❌ Demands cash only
• ❌ Pressure to sign immediately
• ❌ Requires large upfront payment (50%+)
• ❌ Offers to waive insurance deductible
• ❌ Claims to represent insurance company
• ❌ No written estimate or contract
• ❌ Unmarked vehicles
• ❌ Can’t provide insurance certificate
• ❌ Asks you to get permits (contractor’s job)

Green flags to look for:

• ✅ Valid local license
• ✅ Proof of insurance
• ✅ Established local business
• ✅ Written estimates
• ✅ References available
• ✅ Proper equipment and signage
• ✅ Willing to work with insurance
• ✅ Provides detailed contract
• ✅ Reasonable payment terms
• ✅ Professional communication

Verify in real-time:

• Check license online (most states have databases)
• Call their insurance company to verify coverage
• Look up business address on Google Maps
• Check recent online reviews
• Call references if provided

Step 5: Getting Emergency Estimates

What to expect:

• Initial estimates may be rough (detailed after adjuster visit)
• Emergency work often quoted separately from permanent repairs
• Temporary fixes to prevent further damage
• Full scope determined after thorough inspection

Get multiple quotes if possible:

• Even in emergencies, try for 2-3 estimates
• Compare scope of emergency work
• Understand what’s temporary vs. permanent
• Clarify what insurance may cover

Questions to ask:

• “What needs to be done immediately?”
• “What can wait for insurance adjuster?”
• “What are your emergency rates vs. normal rates?”
• “When can you start?”
• “How long will temporary repairs take?”
• “Will this be covered by insurance?”
• “What’s the payment schedule?”
• “Do you guarantee your work?”

Step 6: Protect Yourself with Proper Contracts

Even emergency work needs contracts:

Contract must include:

• Detailed scope of work
• Materials to be used
• Labor and material costs
• Start and completion dates
• Payment schedule (never 100% upfront)
• Warranty information
• Contractor license and insurance info
• Lien waiver information
• Change order process

Payment best practices:

• Maximum 10-30% deposit
• Pay based on work completed
• Use credit card for protection
• Get lien releases from subcontractors
• Never pay in full before work complete
• Get receipts for all payments

Rights you have:

• 3-day right to cancel (in most states)
• Right to lien releases
• Right to see licenses and insurance
• Right to permits and inspections
• Right to detailed invoices

Storm Chaser Scams: How to Protect Yourself

After major storms, scammers flood affected areas.

Common Storm Chaser Tactics

Watch out for:

• Going door-to-door immediately after storm
• “We have leftover materials from another job”
• “We can start today if you sign now”
• Offering to pay your insurance deductible
• Demanding cash payments
• Unusually low bids
• High-pressure sales tactics
• No written contracts
• Out-of-state license plates
• P.O. box addresses

How Storm Chasers Operate

Typical scam patterns:

1. Show up uninvited after storm
2. Offer “free inspection”
3. Exaggerate damage
4. Demand large deposit
5. Do poor quality work or disappear
6. Leave town when problems arise

Why they’re dangerous:

• Poor quality work causes more damage
• May take deposit and disappear
• Often unlicensed and uninsured
• No recourse when they leave area
• May void your insurance coverage
• Could file fraudulent insurance claims

Protecting Yourself from Scams

Do:

• ✅ Research contractors before hiring
• ✅ Verify licenses and insurance
• ✅ Get everything in writing
• ✅ Check references and reviews
• ✅ Use credit cards for protection
• ✅ Report suspicious activity to authorities
• ✅ Trust your instincts

Don’t:

• ❌ Sign anything under pressure
• ❌ Pay large deposits
• ❌ Pay cash
• ❌ Let unverified contractors on your roof
• ❌ Sign insurance claims forms for contractors
• ❌ Agree to work without permits

Report scams to:

• Local police department
• State Attorney General
• Better Business Bureau
• State contractor licensing board
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

Working with Insurance and Contractors

Best Practices for Insurance Claims

Maximize your claim:

• Document everything with photos/video
• Don’t throw away damaged items prematurely
• Get multiple contractor estimates
• Keep detailed expense records
• Respond quickly to insurance requests
• Be present for adjuster inspection

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Starting major repairs before adjuster visit
• Accepting first offer without negotiation
• Not reading policy carefully
• Missing claim deadlines
• Poor documentation
• Throwing away evidence

If insurance lowballs your claim:

• Get independent estimates from licensed contractors
• Request itemized explanation of settlement
• Point out missed damage
• Hire public adjuster if needed (they take percentage but may increase payout)
• Know your appeal rights
• Consider professional appraisal

Contractor-Insurance Coordination

Good contractors will:

• Work directly with your insurance
• Provide detailed estimates for adjuster
• Document all damage thoroughly
• Help identify all covered damage
• Meet with adjuster if needed
• Adjust scope based on approved coverage

Warning signs:

• Offering to inflate claims (insurance fraud)
• Pressuring you to hire before insurance review
• Claiming they can guarantee insurance approval
• Asking you to sign over insurance check
• Offering to pay your deductible (often illegal)

Special Considerations for Different Storm Damage

Hurricane Damage

Typical needs:

• Roof tarping and repair
• Water extraction and drying
• Window/door replacement
• Debris removal
• Mold remediation
• Structural repairs

Finding contractors:

• Demand is extremely high
• Wait times may be weeks
• Priority for emergency tarping
• Consider contractors from unaffected areas
• Verify they can work in your state

Tornado Damage

Typical needs:

• Complete rebuilding often required
• Structural engineers assessment
• Debris removal
• Temporary housing
• Full reconstruction

Finding contractors:

• May need to rebuild from foundation up
• Requires general contractor coordination
• Multiple specialty contractors needed
• Long-term project (months)

Hail Damage

Typical needs:

• Roof inspection and repair
• Siding replacement
• Window replacement
• Gutter repair
• Vehicle damage

Finding contractors:

• High demand after hail storms
• Roofers book up quickly
• Watch for storm chasers
• May qualify for insurance coverage

Flooding

Typical needs:

• Water extraction (immediate)
• Structural drying
• Mold remediation
• Drywall replacement
• Flooring replacement
• HVAC cleaning/replacement

Critical timeline:

• Mold begins in 24-48 hours
• Need immediate water extraction
• Professional drying equipment essential

Finding contractors:

• Water restoration specialists
• Available 24/7 typically
• May work directly with insurance
• IICRC certification preferred

Wind Damage

Typical needs:

• Roof repairs
• Siding repair
• Tree removal
• Fence repair
• Window replacement

Finding contractors:

• Similar to other storm damage
• Roof and tree services in highest demand
• Board-up services for immediate needs

Emergency Contractor Availability and Response Times

What to Expect After Major Storms

Realistic timelines:

• Emergency tarping/boarding: Within 24-48 hours
• Water extraction: Within 12-24 hours
• Tree removal (emergency): 1-3 days
• Permanent repairs: Weeks to months depending on damage extent and contractor availability
• Complete reconstruction: 6-18 months

Why delays happen:

• Widespread damage overwhelms local contractors
• Material shortages
• Permitting delays
• Insurance adjuster backlog
• Skilled labor shortage
• Weather preventing work

Managing expectations:

• Emergency services prioritized
• Extensive damage requires patience
• Quality takes time
• Don’t rush and hire unqualified contractors

When to Hire Out-of-Area Contractors

Legitimate reasons:

• Local contractors completely booked
• Specialized skills not available locally
• Major disaster overwhelmed local capacity

Verify thoroughly:

• Licensed in your state (or can get temporary permit)
• Can pull local permits
• References from similar distance work
• Will return for warranty issues
• Established business (not storm chaser)
• Local accommodations arranged

Protect yourself:

• Get everything in writing
• Use payment schedules tied to milestones
• Verify work before final payment
• Ensure warranty is documented
• Check they’ll return for issues

Recovery Resources and Assistance

Government Assistance Programs

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency):

• Disaster declarations trigger assistance
• Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Grants for temporary housing
• Home repair assistance
• Low-interest disaster loans

SBA Disaster Loans:

• Low-interest loans for repairs
• Available after FEMA declarations
• For homeowners and businesses
• Up to $200,000 for homeowners

State Emergency Management:

• State-specific assistance programs
• Coordination with federal aid
• Local resource connections

Local Government:

• Municipal assistance programs
• Debris removal
• Building inspection support
• Permit fee waivers (sometimes)

Non-Profit and Charitable Assistance

Organizations that help:

• Red Cross (immediate assistance)
• Habitat for Humanity (rebuilding)
• Team Rubicon (veteran-led disaster response)
• Salvation Army (immediate needs)
• Local churches and community organizations

What they offer:

• Temporary shelter
• Food and supplies
• Labor for rebuilding
• Financial assistance
• Case management

Finding Temporary Housing

Options:

• Hotels (insurance may cover)
• Extended stay accommodations
• Rental properties
• Stay with family/friends
• FEMA temporary housing
• RV or mobile home

Insurance coverage:

• Review “additional living expenses” in policy
• Keep all receipts
• May cover hotels, meals, storage
• Usually has time and dollar limits

Prevention: Preparing Your Home Before Storm Season

The best emergency is the one that doesn’t happen.

Pre-Storm Home Hardening

Roofing improvements:

• Install hurricane straps
• Upgrade to impact-resistant shingles
• Ensure proper installation
• Replace old, worn roofing
• Seal roof deck (in hurricane zones)

Window and door protection:

• Install impact-resistant windows
• Add storm shutters
• Reinforce garage doors
• Seal around frames
• Consider hurricane-rated doors

Tree maintenance:

• Remove dead or dying trees
• Trim branches near house
• Maintain healthy trees
• Remove widow makers
• Annual arborist inspection

Drainage improvements:

• Clean and repair gutters
• Ensure proper grading
• Install French drains if needed
• Clear storm drains
• Extend downspouts away from foundation

Structural reinforcement:

• Reinforce roof-to-wall connections
• Anchor manufactured homes
• Seal exterior walls
• Strengthen gable ends
• Install flood vents (flood-prone areas)

Emergency Supply Kit

Have ready before storm:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days)
• Non-perishable food (3-day supply)
• Battery-powered radio
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply)
• Cash
• Important documents (waterproof container)
• Phone chargers and power banks
• Tools (hammer, nails, tarp, plywood)
• Contractor contact list

Finding Reliable Emergency Contractors: Your Action Plan

Before Storm Season (Do This Now)

Week 1: Research

• Create list of potential contractors
• Check licenses and insurance
• Read online reviews
• Ask neighbors for recommendations

Week 2: Vet and Contact

• Call top contractors
• Ask about emergency services
• Request quotes for common repairs
• Verify 24/7 availability
• Save contact information

Week 3: Prepare

• Review insurance policy
• Take photos/video of home
• Create emergency supply kit
• Document valuables
• Store important papers safely

Week 4: Finalize

• Compile emergency contractor list
• Share with family members
• Store digitally and on paper
• Add to emergency kit
• Review and update annually

During Storm Season

Stay informed:

• Monitor weather forecasts
• Sign up for emergency alerts
• Follow local emergency management
• Have evacuation plan
• Know your risk level

When storm approaches:

• Review contractor list
• Charge all devices
• Secure outdoor items
• Review insurance policy
• Have cash on hand

After storm damage:

• Prioritize safety
• Document damage
• Call insurance
• Contact pre-vetted contractors
• Avoid door-to-door solicitors

Bottom Line: Preparation Prevents Panic

Storm damage is stressful enough without the added worry of finding trustworthy contractors. The key to successful storm recovery is preparation:

Do before storm season:

• Research and vet contractors
• Verify licenses and insurance
• Understand your insurance coverage
• Create emergency contact list
• Document your home’s condition

Do after storm damage:

• Prioritize safety first
• Document all damage thoroughly
• Contact insurance immediately
• Call pre-vetted contractors
• Avoid high-pressure sales tactics
• Get everything in writing
• Verify credentials even in emergencies

Never:

• Hire unlicensed contractors
• Pay large deposits upfront
• Sign under pressure
• Skip the vetting process
• Assume someone is legitimate
• Let strangers on your roof without verification

The investment in pre-storm preparation pays dividends when disaster strikes. Having trusted contractors identified before you need them means faster response, better quality work, and peace of mind when you’re already dealing with storm damage stress.

Connect with Trusted Emergency Contractors

Don’t wait for a storm to start looking for reliable contractors. Build your emergency contact list now with professionals.

Find qualified emergency contractors in your area:

✅ 24/7 emergency service availability
✅ Licensed and fully insured
✅ Local, established businesses
✅ Experience with storm damage

Get free estimates from vetted contractors who specialize in:

• Emergency roof repairs and tarping
• Water extraction and restoration
• Tree removal and debris cleanup
• Board-up and security services
• Structural repairs
• Complete storm damage restoration

Submit your project details to connect with emergency contractors before you need them. Be prepared for whatever storm season brings.

Protect your home—prepare today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can emergency contractors respond after a storm?

Response times vary based on storm severity and contractor availability. Emergency services like tarping and boarding typically occur within 24-48 hours. Permanent repairs may take weeks or months during major disasters due to high demand. Pre-vetted contractors on your emergency list will respond faster than searching after damage occurs.

Are emergency contractor rates higher than normal?

Yes, emergency service rates are typically 1.5x to 2x regular pricing due to after-hours work, immediate response requirements, and working in hazardous conditions. Weekend, holiday, and nighttime services may have additional surcharges of 25-50%. This is industry standard and usually covered by insurance for emergency repairs.

How do I avoid storm chaser scams?

Avoid door-to-door contractors after storms, verify all licenses and insurance before hiring, never pay large deposits (max 10-30%), get everything in writing, check local references, and trust your instincts. Storm chasers typically pressure immediate decisions, demand cash, and disappear after taking deposits. Always verify contractor credentials even in emergencies.

Will insurance cover emergency repairs?

Most homeowner policies cover emergency repairs to prevent further damage, such as tarping roofs, boarding windows, and water extraction. Contact your insurance company before making major repairs, document everything with photos, keep all receipts, and get approval for large expenses. Emergency mitigation is typically covered, but review your specific policy.

Can I start repairs before the insurance adjuster arrives?

You can and should make emergency repairs to prevent further damage (tarping, boarding, water extraction), but document everything first with extensive photos and video. Don’t throw away damaged items or make permanent repairs until after the adjuster inspects. Keep receipts for all emergency work—insurance typically reimburses approved emergency mitigation.

How do I find contractors when local ones are all booked?

After major disasters, consider licensed out-of-state contractors who can obtain permits in your jurisdiction. Verify they’re established businesses, licensed in their home state, have references from similar distance work, and will return for warranty issues. Your insurance company may also have networks of contractors who can assist.

What should I do if a tree falls on my house?

Evacuate if the structure is unsafe, call 911 if anyone is trapped or power lines are involved, don’t touch anything near downed power lines, document damage with photos, contact your insurance company immediately, and call an emergency tree removal service. Don’t attempt DIY tree removal—it’s extremely dangerous.

How long does storm damage repair take?

Emergency mitigation (tarping, boarding) takes 1-3 days. Minor repairs may take 1-2 weeks. Major damage can require 2-6 months. Complete reconstruction after tornadoes or hurricanes may take 6-18 months. Timeline depends on damage extent, contractor availability, permit processing, insurance approval, and material availability.

Should I hire my insurance company’s preferred contractor?

You’re not required to use insurance-preferred contractors, though they may streamline the claims process. Get estimates from multiple contractors including the preferred one, verify all credentials regardless of who recommends them, and choose based on quality, warranty, and your comfort level. Your choice of contractor is your right.

What if I can’t afford my deductible?

Never accept offers from contractors to waive deductibles—this is often illegal insurance fraud. Options include: negotiate payment plans with contractors, apply for disaster assistance loans (SBA, FEMA), seek help from charitable organizations, use savings or emergency funds, or consider 0% credit card offers. Legitimate contractors cannot legally pay your deductible.

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Remember: Storm preparation is an investment in your home’s protection and your peace of mind. The time you spend now researching contractors, understanding your insurance, and preparing your home will save you tremendous stress when severe weather strikes. Don’t wait for the storm—prepare today.