How to Assess Structural Damage After a Storm

Storm damage can be dangerous and costly if ignored. Here's how you can assess and document damage safely and effectively:

1. Prioritize Safety: Wear protective gear, avoid unstable areas, and inspect during daylight.

2. Check Key Areas:

   • Roof & Gutters: Look for missing shingles, sagging gutters, and debris.

   • Foundation & Walls: Watch for large cracks, pooling water, or leaning walls.

   • Windows, Doors, & Ceilings: Inspect for broken glass, warped frames, and water stains.

3. Use Tools: Flashlights, moisture meters, and cameras can help identify hidden issues.

4. Document Everything: Take clear photos, videos, and notes for insurance claims.

5. Call Experts When Needed: Structural damage, water issues, or electrical risks require professional help.

Quick Tip: Proper documentation speeds up insurance claims and prevents disputes. Always back up your records digitally.

Ready to dive deeper? This guide explains each step in detail, with safety tips, equipment suggestions, and advice on hiring professionals.

Navigating Hurricane Structural Damage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Main Areas to Check After a Storm

Once you've confirmed it's safe, start inspecting key areas for potential damage to your property.

Roof and Gutter Inspection

Your roof plays a crucial role in keeping your home protected. Check for any missing or damaged shingles that could allow water to seep in.

"A shingle blow-off puts the integrity of your roof system at risk. Water can now penetrate into the roof deck and into whatever space is below, such as the attic and your ceiling."

Don't forget to examine your gutters for the following issues:

• Sagging or loose sections

• Visible dents or deformities

• Areas clogged with debris

After addressing the roof and gutters, move on to check the foundation and walls for any structural concerns.

Foundation and Wall Assessment

Take a close look at your foundation and walls for signs of damage. Pay attention to:

• Cracks larger than 1/4 inch

• Water pooling around the base of your home

• Displaced soil near the foundation

• Bulging or leaning walls

• Cracks in brick or mortar

• Uneven surfaces or floors

"Look for signs like cracks in the walls, floors, or foundation itself, doors and windows that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floors. If you see any of these, it's time for a professional inspection. While you can do a basic visual inspection yourself, significant findings should always be checked by a professional to assess the extent of any issues."

Once you've reviewed the foundation and walls, examine windows, doors, and ceilings for other potential damage.

Window, Door, and Ceiling Check

"Windows protect you from harmful outdoor elements and extreme weather events. These important components of your home would need to be repaired or replaced in case they got broken during a storm. However, not all window damage is obvious and some can go undetected, causing more problems."

Windows:

• Look for cracks in the glass or damaged frames.

• Check for moisture trapped between panes.

Doors:

• Inspect for warped frames.

• Test if they open and close properly.

Ceilings:

• Watch for water stains or discoloration that could indicate leaks.

Equipment and Methods for Damage Assessment

Common Household Tools

You can start assessing damage with simple tools you likely already have at home. For example, a screwdriver can help check wooden structures for hidden rot or insect damage. Be sure to have these essentials on hand:

• Flashlight: Helps illuminate dark areas.

• Moisture meter: Useful for detecting dampness in walls or floors.

• Camera or smartphone: Capture clear photos for documentation.

• Work gloves and protective footwear: Keep yourself safe from sharp objects.

• Measuring tape: Handy for measuring cracks or other structural issues.

Expert Assessment Methods

Professionals rely on advanced tools and techniques for a more thorough evaluation. In a blog post from December 7, 2023, Roofing USA highlighted several technologies used by experts:

• Drone Technology: Equipped with cameras, drones provide detailed aerial views of areas that are tough to access.

• Infrared Thermography: A non-invasive method to detect water intrusion and heat loss.

• Advanced Moisture Meters: High-grade devices that identify hidden moisture inside structures.

• Pitch Gauges: Measure roof slopes and angles with precision.

"You can't beat visual inspection for discovering indicators of bigger problems. If you see large cracks in the walls, you know the building's frame has experienced some significant motion and the structural plane has a problem."
– Professor Jerome Connor, structural engineering specialist, MIT's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

These advanced tools help pinpoint issues, but always remember to prioritize safety during inspections.

Safety Guidelines

Your safety comes first when inspecting storm damage. Keep these precautions in mind:

1. Protective Equipment: Wear sturdy shoes to avoid injuries from hazards like exposed nails or broken glass.

2. Timing: Perform inspections during daylight and in good weather conditions.

3. Access Safety: Use properly secured ladders and avoid walking on wet or unstable surfaces.

4. Professional Help: If you notice serious damage, consult a structural engineer for expert advice.

Recording Damage for Insurance

After ensuring safety and conducting an initial assessment, documenting damage thoroughly is key to a successful insurance claim.

Photo and Video Evidence

Recording storm damage with clear photos and videos can strengthen your claim. Use a high-resolution camera and ensure your device’s timestamp and GPS features are activated.

When taking photos:

• Capture wide shots to show the full extent of the damage.

• Take close-ups to highlight specific issues.

• Photograph from various angles for a complete view.

• Use objects (like a ruler or coin) to provide a sense of scale.

• Ensure proper lighting and focus for clarity.

For videos, conduct a walkthrough while narrating what you see. Describe the damage in detail as you record.

"Money will come in either from the federal government, or insurance, or a hybrid of both, and the fraudsters know it"
– David Glawe, President and CEO of the National Insurance Crime Bureau

This quote highlights the importance of detailed documentation. It not only supports legitimate claims but also helps prevent fraud. For example, in one case, a homeowner lost over $30,000 in claim assistance when an adjuster questioned the extent of water damage due to insufficient records.

Once you’ve collected your visual evidence, organize it systematically for easy access during the claims process.

Document Management

A structured approach to managing your documentation can save you time and hassle. Start by keeping a detailed damage log that includes:

• The date and time of the storm.

• Descriptions of all damaged areas.

• Emergency repairs made.

• Notes from conversations with insurance representatives.

• Receipts for temporary repairs or alternative housing.

Store your records in multiple locations. Use cloud services like Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive to share files easily with adjusters. Always create digital backups of your photos and videos before submitting them to your insurance provider.

For better organization, set up a filing system like this:

| Document Type | Storage Location | Backup Method |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Photos/Videos | Cloud Storage + External Drive | Weekly Digital Backup |
| Repair Receipts | Physical Folder + Digital Scan | Cloud Storage |
| Insurance Communications | Email Folder + Printed Copies | PDF Archive |
| Contractor Estimates | Digital + Physical Copies | Cloud Backup

Getting Repairs Done

After documenting the damage thoroughly, the next step is tackling repairs.

Self-Repair vs. Professional Help

Once you’ve documented everything, you’ll need to decide whether to handle minor fixes yourself or call in the pros. Small tasks like replacing a few shingles or patching tiny holes might seem doable. However, as PuroClean of Bradenton points out, “DIY repairs can be costly mistakes if misapplied”.

You should seek professional assistance if you encounter:

• Damage to load-bearing structures

• Issues with electrical systems

• Large-scale water damage

• Situations requiring an insurance claim

• Misaligned doors or unusual odors

Services from Quality Restoration NW LLC

Professional restoration companies are equipped to handle storm damage effectively. Quality Restoration NW LLC, for instance, focuses on water damage restoration and even works directly with insurance companies to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Here’s a breakdown of some of their key services:

| Service Type | Description | Benefits |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Emergency Response | 24/7 availability for immediate action | Limits further damage |
| Damage Assessment | Thorough inspection and documentation | Helps with insurance claims |
| Water Extraction | Specialized equipment for water removal | Prevents mold and further issues |
| Structural Drying | Complete moisture removal and monitoring | Ensures proper restoration |
| Insurance Support | Handles adjuster communication | Simplifies the claims process

While waiting for professional repairs, it’s essential to protect your home from further harm.

Storm Protection Steps

Take steps to minimize additional damage while repairs are being arranged.

Immediate Actions:

• Cover broken windows with plywood.

• Remove standing water to avoid mold.

• Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.

• Secure loose siding or roofing materials.

Long-Term Measures:
Install storm shutters, maintain proper drainage, trim overhanging branches, and reinforce doors and windows.

For more help, refer back to the professional restoration services mentioned above.

Summary

First Steps After Storm Damage

Taking immediate action is crucial to minimize further damage and ensure your insurance claim process runs smoothly. Here's what to focus on:

| Priority | Action | Key Details |
| --- | --- | --- |
| <strong>Safety First</strong> | Property Assessment | Inspect structural elements and utilities carefully. |
| <strong>Documentation</strong> | Photo/Video Evidence | Take dated photos and videos with detailed notes. |
| <strong>Prevention</strong> | Temporary Repairs | Cover exposed areas and remove standing water. |
| <strong>Communication</strong> | Insurance Contact | Report the damage promptly and save all receipts

For damage beyond minor repairs, it's important to get a professional evaluation. If you’re displaced, you can contact the Red Cross at 800-733-2767.

When to Call Experts

Bring in professionals when DIY repairs could jeopardize safety or lead to higher costs. As mentioned earlier, professional assessments are essential for handling water damage, structural problems, or complicated insurance claims.

Experts can help with:

• Detailed documentation

• Skilled repair methods

• Guidance on navigating insurance claims

This approach ensures your property is properly restored while avoiding errors that could impact its condition or your insurance coverage.

Related Blog Posts

• How to Document Property Damage

• How To Avoid Delays in Property Damage Claims

• How to Document Damage for Faster Claim Approval

• Top Challenges With Adjusters During Restoration