Storm Damage? Here's What to Do Before You Call Insurance
A storm just blew through Fort Myers and now your yard looks like a scene from a disaster movie. Maybe the roof is leaking. A tree is down. Your fence is doing a strange little tilt. First of all, take a breath. We know it can be overwhelming. But before you pick up the phone and call your insurance company, there are a few smart things you should do first.
These steps will help you protect your property, speed up the claims process, and make things a lot less stressful. Plus, with help from storm damage restoration services in Fort Myers, you can get back to normal sooner than you think.
Step 1: Make Sure It’s Safe to Be There
Before anything else, check that it is safe to stay inside or enter the property.
- Look out for power lines on the ground, broken glass, or ceilings that are sagging.
- If something looks dangerous or the structure seems unstable, do not take risks. Leave and call emergency services.
- If it is safe, take your time and move carefully.
Step 2: Take Lots of Photos and Notes
Now it is time to document everything. Use your phone or a camera to take clear photos and videos of all the damage you can see.
- Take pictures of roof leaks, fallen trees, flooded floors, and damaged furniture.
- Get wide shots to show the big picture and close-ups for details.
- Make some
notes
too. Write down when the storm hit and what parts of the home or business were affected.
This info is gold when it comes time to file your insurance claim and talk with Fort Myers cleanup pros.
Step 3: Do Small Things to Prevent More Damage
Insurance companies expect you to take basic steps to prevent things from getting worse after a storm.
- If your roof is leaking, use a tarp or bucket to catch the water.
- If there is water coming into the garage or basement, move items to higher ground.
- If a window is broken, cover it with plastic or wood if you can.
Avoid doing big repairs on your own. That is what our team at Redline Restoration is here for. But small actions now can save you money and help your claim.
Step 4: Don’t Throw Anything Away Just Yet
It might feel good to start tossing soaked carpet or smashed furniture, but wait until your insurance adjuster gets a look.
- Keep any damaged items if possible. If something has to be thrown away, take pictures of it first.
- Make a list with the item name, its value, and the date you bought it.
This helps avoid surprises later on when your claim is reviewed.
Step 5: Call a Local Restoration Company First
Before you call the insurance company, get a professional set of eyes on the damage.
- A local Fort Myers storm cleanup company like Redline Restoration can inspect the property and give you an honest assessment.
- We will help you document everything and explain what your next steps should be.
- We also get to work right away which is important because storm damage can get worse the longer you wait.
We offer full storm damage restoration services in Fort Myers and we are on call 24/7.
Step 6: Now You Are Ready to Call Insurance
You are prepared and have everything you need. Now it is time to call your insurance provider.
- Be clear about what happened and provide the photos and notes you collected.
- Ask what else they need and when an adjuster will come by.
- Stay calm and keep records of your conversations.
At Redline, we can also talk directly with your insurance company if needed. We work with all the major providers and know how to speed things up.
Fort Myers Cleanup Help Is Just a Call Away
When storms hit South Florida, you need a team you can trust. Redline Restoration is here for you when it matters most. From water damage and fallen trees to full property restoration, we handle every step.
If you need help with storm damage restoration services in Fort Myers or a quick Fort Myers cleanup, give us a call. We are here 24 hours a day to help get your home or business back to normal.
