Before

After

Roof Help After a Hurricane

How to clean up after a hurricane

With the proper safety gear, such as goggles, hard hats, masks, heavy gloves, and waterproof boots, begin the cleanup process. But before you begin, you should contact your agent, they may be able to provide assistance or help you in reporting your claim. Also, don't discarded or repair anything prior to reporting the claim.

• Examine the area for hazards: Before any cleanup, survey the property. If there are any unusual odors, water near electrical appliances or outlets, the structure of the building is questionable, or you see any chemicals in the water, check with your local authorities and utilities to make sure it’s safe to return.
• Begin drying out the building: If you’re able, remove only damaged drywall, carpets and pads, and pull off wet baseboards and cabinet kick plates. Keep samples of any carpets that are removed. Leave your home as well ventilated as possible. Document your damage by taking photographs.
• Start the cleanup: If you do the cleaning yourself, be careful not to injure yourself or others. Keep track of the time and money you spend protecting your property. If you decide to use a contractor, get a receipt for the cost of labor and materials to give your claim representative. Don’t have any repair work done until you discuss them with your claim representative. It may be beneficial to get an estimate first.
• Document and photograph everything: To assist with the insurance claim process, be sure to document items you throw out. You can do this by saving your receipts, photographing the items and by making a room-by-room inventory of missing or damaged goods. Include manufacturers’ names, dates and places of purchase and prices.
  • Do not throw out any expensive items, such as large televisions and furniture, until authorized by your claim representative. These items may need to be inspected first.
• Safely store personal property: Take all personal property, especially small valuables such as jewelry, to a safe place to avoid theft.
• Take special care with antiques and art: Handle antiques, art objects, sterling and brass with special care. Allow them to dry, but don’t oil or rub them since this could damage finishes or surfaces.
• Clean and dry wood furniture as soon as possible: Be careful not to rub in abrasives such as soil or plaster that may have fallen on the surfaces.
• Dry out furniture and bedding: Try to dry bedding and upholstered furniture that is saturated with water. Don’t store other possessions near these items.
• Dry and clean any carpets and rugs that have minor water damage: Carpet or rugs that have been saturated with water should be disposed of as noted above.
• Dry metal objects: To prevent corrosion, dry any metal objects, such as home appliances and drapery rods, then rub or spray with appropriate cleaning solution.
• Dry, but don’t oil radios, televisions, and other electronic devices: Any electronic equipment exposed to water should be professionally serviced before use.