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When Disaster Strikes. . .
A Step-by-Step Guide to Help
You Cope with Property Damage
The HBA Cares. . .
Unfortunately, disasters like fires, floods, tornadoes and hurricanes
strike individual homes, neighborhoods and entire communities. If they
ever involve you and your family, it’s important for you not to make
sudden decisions related to extensive repairs before you’ve done your
homework. The information in this brochure has been developed to help
you get through the situation from start to finish in a well
thought-out way.
#1 - Stay Calm
Once the dust settles, it’s important for you to
be strong and lead your family through this difficult time. Seek out
help and support from friends and neighbors as soon as possible. Don’t
make rash decisions under pressure.
#2 - Contact Your Insurance
Agent BEFORE You Hire any Licensed Contractors
Most agencies have a claims center that can be
contacted by phone 24/7/365. Seek out their help for next steps -
especially if professional help is needed for clean-up and repairs.
NEVER sign a contract for work from a company that approached you
after the incident without checking their references and licenses.
In Flagler County you can
contact: Ramona Zavacky, Manager of the County’s Construction
Licensing Program, (386) 313-4085 to see if your contractor has the
proper license and insurance.
Be sure you’re dealing with a
local, licensed, reputable business with the proper business insurance
coverage versus the first person that approaches you and offers to
help. There is a difference in state licensing and local ‘business tax
or occupational licensing’. Be very careful about paying any up-front
deposits until you’re 100% sure the decision to move forward with the
selected licensed contractor is the right one. The Flagler Home
Builders Association maintains a searchable website list of all
members. (www.flaglerbuyersguide.com). Some are listed in specific
categories related to storm/fire damage and repair.
#3 - Secure Your Property &
Recover/Remove Valuables
Even in these dark times, looters can make things
worse. If necessary, consider renting a storage unit nearby or have a
mobile storage unit brought to your site that you can load. If the
damage is too great or the area is too dangerous, seek the help of
select professionals through recommendations from your insurance
agent, family members, friends, etc. Never work with anyone that tries
to pressure you or wants to be paid a big percentage up-front.
#4 - Prevent Further Damage
It’s very important for you not to ignore
structures that are repairable. Make a detailed sweep of your
home/property to make sure you can prevent additional damage from
exposure to the elements. Consult with your insurance agent to see if
they have specific recommendations or procedures. Tarps, ropes,
plywood and other items you many need can be purchased quickly at most
discount and hardware stores. Again, it’s very important to be safe
and consider professional help if it’s needed at this time.
#5 - Make Informed Decisions
Related to Repair Contracts & Costs
Always be cautious when you’re vulnerable and
upset. Don’t let the clock or someone outside your circle of family
and friends compromise your financial future. Talk to recommended
licensed contractors and make sure they understand how to work with
your insurance company related to timelines, payments, etc.
Also, don’t be surprised if
your basic homeowners insurance isn’t enough to cover the actual costs
for certain major repairs. If you find yourself unable to make your
home identical to what it looked like before the damage, set a dollar
amount to spend on quality repairs that make sense for your financial
situation.
Doing so may require some tough design and style
decisions. However, don’t just choose the licensed contractor with the
lowest price based on price alone. Be comfortable with the entire
scenario being proposed by each licensed contractor you plan to hire.
#6 - Begin the Repairs
By now, many crazy things have probably happened.
For major repairs, it’s possible that weeks or even months have gone
by. Continue to be strong and work with reputable people. When you’re
working with hired contractors, you can do your part to keep the work
flowing by making selections in a timely manner for things like
windows, doors, shingles, siding, cabinets, plumbing/lighting
fixtures, flooring, etc.
The state of Florida has a good resource to prepare for a disaster.
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