If your home suffered significant damage during a storm, file a claim and document it first. Take photos or video of any damage prior to cleanup. If possible, do not throw away damaged items until the claims adjuster has reviewed them. When the claims adjuster arrives at your property, it’s helpful to have your household inventory available with photos/videos, receipts, and important information such as age, make and model numbers. Also, keep in mind insurance fraud increases after a major storm. Please be cautious of any contractor going door-to-door.
How to Identify Storm Damage
Wear closed-toed shoes and protective gloves while surveying your property for damage–you may find broken glass, fallen drywall or sharp branches.
- Look for shingles on the ground and damaged gutters.
If you can see portions of the roof on the ground, look for missing roof covering or damaged gutters. If there is obvious damage, someone may have to cover it with a tarp to prevent water intrusion. CastleCare, powered by Alacrity, is a credentialed contractor network that offers emergency repair services, including tarping, exclusively for Tower Hill members and policyholders. - Inspect your windows.
Even if your windows are not broken during the storm, there may be holes or cracks in them from small pieces of debris or hail. - Check your home’s siding.
Siding can be dislodged during a storm and may need to be covered to prevent water intrusion. - Look for water damage.
If you are missing shingles, it’s possible that water got into your attic. Check to see if your trusses and joists have dark water stains. Water stains on your interior walls or ceilings can be another sign of water damage in your home.
For more safety tips or information on filing a claim with Tower Hill, visit: