Hurricane Beryl has passed, but its aftermath has left many Houston homes grappling with water damage. Knowing what to do next can make a significant difference in safeguarding your property and securing your insurance claims.

At Elements of Restoration, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Here’s what you need to know about handling water damage after a hurricane and when it’s time to call in professional restoration services.

Immediate Steps to Take After the Storm

1. Ensure Safety First

Before inspecting your home, ensure it’s safe to do so. Look for:

• Structural Damage: Check for signs of structural instability like sagging roofs, cracked walls, or leaning foundations.
• Flooded Areas: Avoid entering flooded spaces until they’re deemed safe. Floodwaters can contain contaminants and pose electrical hazards.
• Downed Power Lines: Stay clear of downed power lines and report them to your utility company immediately.

2. Document the Damage

Accurate documentation is crucial for insurance claims. Here’s how:

• Photos and Videos: Take comprehensive photos and videos of all damaged areas, both inside and out.
• Inventory List: Create a detailed list of damaged items, noting their approximate value.
• Save Receipts: Keep receipts for any temporary repairs or emergency accommodations.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with your documentation and follow their procedures for filing a claim. Keep a record of all communications.

4. Perform Temporary Repairs

Prevent further damage by making temporary repairs such as:

• Tarping Roofs: Cover holes or leaks in your roof to prevent additional water ingress.
• Boarding Windows: Secure broken windows to protect your home from further weather damage and security risks.
• Removing Water: Begin water removal and drying of affected areas. For significant flooding, consider professional help.

When to Call a Restoration Company

While minor issues can be handled personally, extensive damage requires professional intervention. Here’s when to call Elements of Restoration:

Significant Water Damage: If your home has substantial water damage, such as flooded basements or soaked walls and floors, professional water extraction and drying are crucial.

Mold Growth: Mold can develop rapidly in moist environments. If you notice mold, immediate professional remediation is essential to prevent health risks.

Structural Damage: For any structural damage, such as compromised foundations or collapsed walls, professional repairs are necessary to ensure safety and stability.

Complex Insurance Claims: Navigating insurance claims can be overwhelming. Our team can work directly with your insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation and streamline the process.

How Elements of Restoration Can Help

At Elements of Restoration, we specialize in comprehensive water damage restoration services. Our IICRC certified team ensures top-quality service. Here’s what we offer:

• 24/7 Emergency Response: We’re available around the clock to address your restoration needs promptly.
• Water Extraction and Drying: Utilizing advanced equipment, we thoroughly remove water and dry affected areas.
• Mold Remediation: We handle mold removal safely and effectively, preventing further spread and health risks.
• Structural Repairs: From minor fixes to major repairs, we restore your home’s structural integrity.
• Insurance Assistance: We simplify the insurance process, working directly with your provider to ensure smooth claims.

Contact Us

Hurricane Beryl’s impact can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Elements of Restoration is here to help Houston homeowners recover and rebuild.

Stay safe, Houston, and trust Elements of Restoration for all your water damage restoration needs. Follow us on X for more blogs and tips.