Immediate Steps To Take After A Water Leak

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with mold due to water intrusion in your San Antonio home requires swift and decisive action.

While our city enjoys a warm and vibrant climate, it also means that water leaks and mold infestations can become unwelcome houseguests. In this blog, our local SERVPRO® team is here to guide you on immediate action steps to take when facing mold due to water intrusion in your San Antonio home.

Understanding the Impact of Water Damage

Water intrusion can occur from various sources such as leaks, flooding, or even high humidity. When left unaddressed, it can create the perfect conditions for mold growth, which can be a challenge to deal with. Prompt action is crucial to prevent further damage and to keep your home mold-free.

Immediate Action Steps

Safety First

Before you start addressing the issue, ensure your safety. Turn off electricity to the affected area if there's any risk of electrical hazards. Use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, when dealing with mold-affected areas.

1. Stop the Source of Water Intrusion

Identify and stop the source of water intrusion immediately. This could be a leaking pipe, a roof leak, or flooding from heavy rain. If the issue is beyond your control, contact a professional plumber or roofer for assistance.

2. Assess the Damage

Inspect the affected areas for the extent of water damage and mold growth. Pay attention to walls, ceilings, floors, and any visible signs of mold, such as discoloration or musty odors.

If the area is extensive or mold growth is severe, consider contacting SERVPRO® of Stone Oak for professional mold remediation services.

3. Begin Drying and Ventilation

Use fans and dehumidifiers to start the drying process. Proper ventilation is essential to reduce humidity levels and prevent further mold growth. Open windows and doors to encourage airflow, especially in the affected areas.

4. Remove and Isolate Affected Items

If you can safely do so, remove water-damaged and mold-infested items from your home. Isolate them outdoors to prevent the spread of mold spores. Consult with professionals about restoring or replacing damaged items.

5. Clean and Disinfect

Clean and disinfect the affected surfaces using appropriate cleaning products. Scrub mold gently from hard surfaces. Dispose of porous materials like drywall or insulation that cannot be adequately cleaned and dried.

Dealing with mold due to water intrusion in your San Antonio home requires swift and decisive action. By following these immediate steps, you can mitigate further damage and reduce the risk of mold growth. If you encounter extensive or challenging mold issues, don't hesitate to reach out to our local SERVPRO® of Stone Oak team for professional mold remediation services. Stay proactive and keep your home mold-free!

Tips to Avoid Common Pitfalls While Navigating Water Damage Insurance in San Antonio

10/14/2023 (Permalink)

After water damage occurs, it's crucial to act quickly.

Water damage can be a homeowner's worst nightmare, especially in a city like San Antonio, where heavy rains and flooding are not uncommon. While having insurance is essential to protect your property, understanding your water damage coverage is equally crucial. In this blog, we'll delve into some common pitfalls homeowners in San Antonio should be aware of when it comes to water damage insurance coverage.

Flood Insurance vs. Standard Homeowners Insurance

One of the most significant misconceptions is assuming that standard homeowners insurance automatically covers flood damage. It doesn't. Flood insurance is a separate policy that you must purchase through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. San Antonio's proximity to rivers and its low-lying areas make flood insurance a wise investment.

Gradual Damage vs. Sudden and Accidental Damage

Insurance policies typically cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as a burst pipe or a sudden roof leak. However, they may not cover gradual damage, which occurs over time due to poor maintenance or neglect. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help avoid coverage denials.

Mold and Mildew Coverage

Many standard policies may exclude or limit coverage for mold and mildew damage resulting from water intrusion. It's essential to understand the terms and limitations of your policy, as mold remediation can be expensive.

Documenting Damage

In the event of water damage, documenting the extent of the damage is crucial. Take photos, keep records of expenses related to mitigation and repairs, and promptly report the damage to your insurance company. Failure to do so can lead to complications during the claims process.

Coverage Limits and Deductibles

Know your policy's coverage limits and deductibles. Some policies may have sub-limits for water damage, which means they may only cover a portion of the total cost. Understanding your policy's limits and deductible can help you make informed decisions when filing a claim.

Professional Mitigation

After water damage occurs, it's crucial to act quickly. Hiring a professional water damage mitigation service like SERVPRO® can help minimize damage and increase the likelihood of a successful insurance claim. Most policies cover the cost of mitigation as part of the claim.

Water damage insurance coverage can be complex, and the last thing you want is to be caught off guard by common pitfalls. Take the time to review your policy, consider supplemental flood insurance if needed, and maintain your property to prevent gradual damage. In case of water damage, document everything, and don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. Remember, knowledge is your best defense against the unexpected in San Antonio's often unpredictable weather conditions.

If you find yourself facing water damage in San Antonio, reach out to SERVPRO® for expert assistance and a smooth claims process. We're here to help you through every step of the way.

How to Create Storm-Resilient Landscaping to Protect Your Property

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Southern Texas boasts beautiful landscapes and a warm climate, but it's not exempt from severe weather, including tropical storms and hurricanes. To ensure the safety of your home and property, it's crucial to implement storm-resilient landscaping. In this blog, we'll explore effective strategies to fortify your property's landscaping against the challenges of Southern Texas' weather, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings while maintaining safety and protection.

Understanding Southern Texas' Weather Challenges

Southern Texas is prone to tropical storms, hurricanes, and heavy rains. These weather events can lead to flooding, strong winds, and debris flying around your property. By designing your landscaping with these challenges in mind, you can minimize potential damage and enhance your property's resilience.

Opt for Native and Wind-Resistant Plants

Choosing native plants that are adapted to Southern Texas' climate is key to storm-resilient landscaping. Native plants are more likely to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rains. Additionally, consider wind-resistant plants that have flexible stems and leaves to reduce the risk of breakage during storms.

Plan Proper Drainage

Effective drainage is essential for preventing water accumulation that can lead to flooding. Grade your landscape away from your home's foundation and create swales or berms to direct water away from critical areas. Incorporate permeable surfaces like gravel or permeable pavers to allow water to soak into the ground.

Reinforce Trees and Shrubs

Prune trees and shrubs to remove dead or weak branches that could become projectiles during storms. Proper pruning also enhances airflow through foliage, reducing the risk of wind damage. For newly planted trees, use stakes or guy wires to help them establish a strong root system.

Consider Hardscaping Elements

Integrate hardscaping elements like retaining walls, gravel paths, and raised beds into your landscaping. These features can help prevent soil erosion, which can be exacerbated by heavy rains. Hardscaping also adds structure to your landscape, reducing the risk of plant damage.

Install Windbreaks

Strategically place windbreaks, such as fences, shrubs, or low walls, to shield your property from strong winds. Windbreaks can significantly reduce the impact of wind on your home and landscaping, preventing potential damage.

Anchor Outdoor Furniture and Decor

Secure outdoor furniture, decor, and other items that could become projectiles during storms. Anchor them to the ground or store them in a safe place when severe weather is anticipated.

Regular Maintenance

Routine landscape maintenance is crucial for storm resilience. Regularly inspect and maintain trees, shrubs, and drainage systems. Replace damaged or weakened plants promptly to prevent further issues.

Creating storm-resilient landscaping for your Southern Texas property is a proactive approach to protecting your home and loved ones. Native plants, proper drainage, reinforced trees, windbreaks, and hardscaping elements all contribute to a landscape that can withstand the region's weather challenges. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy the beauty of your outdoor space while ensuring its safety and resilience during storms.

The Importance of Regular Dryer Vent Cleaning

8/21/2023 (Permalink)

Cleaning your dryer vent is essential for ensuring your dryer works effectively and safely.

Your dryer is a vital appliance that helps you dry your clothes quickly and efficiently. However, using your dryer regularly can lead to a buildup of lint and debris in your dryer vent, which can cause several problems. A clogged dryer vent can lead to longer drying times, decreased energy efficiency, and even pose a fire hazard. Therefore, it's essential to keep your dryer vent clean to ensure that it works effectively and safely. In this blog post, we will discuss when you should clean your dryer vent and the benefits of doing so regularly.

How often should you clean your dryer vent?

The frequency of dryer vent cleaning depends on several factors, including the frequency of use and the length of the dryer vent. As a general rule, you should have your dryer vent cleaned at least once a year. However, if you notice any signs of clogging or damage, you should have it cleaned immediately. Signs of a clogged dryer vent include longer drying times, decreased airflow, overheating, and a burning smell. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact a professional dryer vent cleaning service.

The benefits of cleaning your dryer vent

A clogged dryer vent can increase your energy consumption and lead to rising utility bills. When the vent is clogged, the dryer has to work harder to dry your clothes, using more energy. By cleaning the dryer vent, you can improve the dryer's efficiency and save on your energy bills.

It is also a fire hazard and can lead to the dryer overheating and igniting. According to the National Fire Protection Association, dryers and washing machines were responsible for 14% of residential building fires in 2016. Cleaning your dryer vent regularly can significantly reduce the risk of a dryer fire.

A clogged vent can put a strain on your dryer and cause it to wear out or fail prematurely. By keeping the vent clean, you can extend the life of your appliance and avoid costly repairs and replacements.

Lastly, a clogged dryer vent can lead to a buildup of dust and debris in your laundry room, negatively affecting your indoor air quality. By cleaning the vent regularly, you can reduce the amount of dust and allergens in your home, improving your overall health and wellbeing.

Cleaning methods for your dryer vent

Cleaning your dryer vent is not a DIY project, as it requires specialized tools and expertise to ensure that it's done safely and effectively. It's best to hire a professional dryer vent cleaning service to do the job, as they will have the tools and knowledge to clean the vent thoroughly, removing all the accumulated lint and debris.

Cleaning your dryer vent is essential for ensuring your dryer works effectively and safely. You should have your dryer vent cleaned at least once a year or immediately if you notice any signs of clogging or damage. By having your dryer vent cleaned regularly, you can improve your energy efficiency, reduce the risk of fire, extend the life of your appliance, and improve your indoor air quality.

Assessing the Need: Does Your Business Require Flood Insurance

7/6/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding flood insurance is essential to ensure your business is protected against a flood.

Running a business involves managing various risks, and one potential threat that often goes overlooked is the risk of flooding. Flood damage can lead to significant financial losses, operational disruptions, and even business closures. To protect your business from the devastating consequences of flooding, it's important to understand whether your business needs flood insurance. In this blog, we will explore the factors to consider when determining if your business requires flood insurance coverage.

Evaluate Your Business Location

Determine if your business is located in a flood-prone area by referring to flood maps provided by government agencies such as FEMA. These maps classify areas into different flood zones based on the likelihood of flooding. Consider the proximity of your business to bodies of water, rivers, coastal areas, and regions with a history of flooding. These factors can significantly increase the risk of flooding and may necessitate flood insurance.

Examine Business Property Insurance Coverage

Evaluate your current business property insurance policy to understand the extent of coverage it provides for flood-related damages. Most standard policies do not include coverage for floods, so you may need to secure separate flood insurance. Contact your insurance provider to discuss the specifics of your policy and to determine if additional flood insurance is necessary.

Assess Potential Risks and Consequences

Evaluate the potential financial impact of flood damage on your business. This includes property damage, equipment loss, inventory destruction, and the cost of temporary relocation or business interruption. Analyze the potential disruption to your business operations caused by flooding. Consider the impact of downtime, loss of productivity, damage to critical equipment, and the ability to serve customers.

Regulatory and Lender Requirements

Familiarize yourself with local regulations and building codes regarding flood insurance requirements for businesses. Some areas may have specific mandates based on flood zone classifications or property type. If your business has a mortgage or loan secured by the property, lenders may require flood insurance as a condition for the loan. Review your loan agreement and consult with your lender to understand their specific requirements.

Evaluate Risk Management and Mitigation Strategies

Develop and implement a comprehensive flood preparedness plan for your business. This includes preventive measures such as installing flood barriers, elevating equipment and utilities, and creating emergency response protocols. Assess the potential impact of flooding on your business's ability to continue operations. Evaluate the need for backup systems, data protection, and alternative workspaces to ensure continuity in the event of a flood.

Seek Professional Advice

Engage with insurance professionals who specialize in commercial insurance or flood insurance to understand the specific needs of your business. They can provide valuable guidance tailored to your industry, location, and risk profile. Consider the cost of flood insurance premiums against the potential financial losses your business could incur from flood damage. Assess the risk and determine if the investment in flood insurance is justifiable for your specific circumstances.

Determining the need for flood insurance for your business requires careful consideration of various factors, including your business location, existing insurance coverage, potential risks and consequences, regulatory requirements, and risk management strategies. While flood insurance may not be mandatory in all cases, it is essential to assess the potential financial impact of flood damage and the feasibility of managing the associated risks.

Why It's Important to Hire a Certified Mold Remediation Company

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

Hire a professional for your mold remediation.

Mold remediation is a serious and complex process that requires specific expertise and equipment. If you are dealing with mold in your home or business, it's essential to find a professional mold remediation company that can provide effective and safe services. But, does a mold remediation company need to be certified? In this blog, we'll explore the answer to this question and explain why certification is essential.

Certifications

In most states, mold remediation companies must be licensed and certified to provide services. These requirements are in place to protect consumers and ensure that the companies performing the work are qualified and knowledgeable in all aspects of mold remediation. Some states have specific regulations in place that require mold remediation companies to obtain specific certifications.

The most widely recognized certification for mold remediation companies is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is a non-profit organization that sets standards and provides certification for the cleaning and restoration industry, including mold remediation. The IICRC has a specific certification program for mold remediation companies, which requires them to undergo training and pass an exam.

Why Certification Is Important

Certification is essential for mold remediation companies for several reasons. First, it ensures that the company has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the work safely and effectively. Mold remediation involves working with hazardous materials, and it's crucial to have a trained professional handle the process to avoid further contamination or health risks.

Second, certification demonstrates that the company follows industry standards and best practices. The IICRC sets rigorous standards for mold remediation companies, and certification shows that the company is committed to upholding these standards. This ensures that the work is performed correctly, and the mold is removed thoroughly.

Hiring a Professional

Hiring a certified mold remediation company can give you peace of mind. You can be confident that the work is being performed by a trained professional who is following industry standards and using the appropriate equipment and techniques.

In conclusion, a mold remediation company needs to be certified to provide services in most states. Certification ensures that the company has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the work safely and effectively. Additionally, it demonstrates that the company follows industry standards and best practices and can give you peace of mind that the work is being performed correctly. When hiring a mold remediation company, be sure to ask about their certifications to ensure that you are hiring a qualified and reputable company. Give SERVPRO of Stone Oak a call for your mold remediation. We have the equipment and expertise to return your property back to normal.

Protecting Your Business and Its Future: The Importance of Business Interruption Insurance

4/12/2023 (Permalink)

Invest in business interruption insurance to protect your business and future.

As a business owner, the thought of an unexpected event disrupting your operations is a nightmare. Whether it's a natural disaster, fire, theft, or any other unforeseen event, the impact on your business can be devastating. The costs associated with business interruption can be astronomical, including lost revenue, ongoing expenses, and potential lawsuits. This is where business interruption insurance comes in, providing a safety net for businesses during these trying times.

Type of Insurance

Business interruption insurance, also known as business income insurance, is a type of insurance that covers the loss of income a business suffers after a disaster. This type of insurance is designed to get businesses back up and running as quickly as possible, minimizing the impact of the interruption. It covers ongoing expenses such as rent, employee wages, and utilities, allowing businesses to focus on getting back to normal operations.

Role of Insurance

The role of business interruption insurance cannot be overstated. It has the potential to save businesses from financial ruin, allowing them to weather the storm and come out the other side stronger. Without this type of insurance, businesses may be forced to shut down permanently or struggle to stay afloat, putting jobs and livelihoods at risk.

One of the main benefits of business interruption insurance is its ability to provide coverage for lost income. This type of coverage can help businesses pay for ongoing expenses during the interruption, such as rent or mortgage payments, payroll, and utilities. It can also cover the cost of temporary relocation or the cost of setting up a temporary location to keep the business running.

Another benefit of business interruption insurance is that it can help businesses recover quickly from the interruption. This type of insurance provides funds to cover the costs of repairs and replacement of damaged equipment or inventory. This can help businesses get back to normal operations as quickly as possible, minimizing the impact of the interruption on their bottom line.

Business interruption insurance can also protect businesses from potential lawsuits. In the event that a customer or employee is injured during the interruption, the insurance can cover the cost of legal fees and any settlements or judgments that may be awarded.

The role of business interruption insurance cannot be overstated. It provides a safety net for businesses during times of uncertainty, allowing them to weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side. Without this type of insurance, businesses may be forced to shut down permanently or struggle to stay afloat, putting jobs and livelihoods at risk. As a business owner, it's important to consider the potential impact of an interruption on your operations and invest in business interruption insurance to protect your business and its future.

Water Damage Tips Everyone Should Know

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

When your home suffers from a water loss, don't panic

When you're faced with a water damage disaster, it can be tempting to panic. But try not to! Instead, take a deep breath, follow these tips, and work with professionals to get your home back in shape as soon as possible.

Take a deep breath.

The first thing you should do when you notice water damage is to take a deep breath. Don't panic! Just because there's water in your home doesn't mean it has to be a disaster. The more calm and collected you are, the easier it will be for everyone involved (including yourself) to deal with the situation.

Turn off the power.

The next water damage tip is to turn off the power.

This is a crucial step that many people forget, and it's easy to see why: turning off the main electrical breaker can be intimidating, especially if you're not familiar with your home's electrical system. But there are several reasons why you should do it anyway:

• Turning off the electricity prevents further damage to your property and keeps you safe from electrocution or fire hazards (which could happen if water has entered into an outlet).
• Turning off the water supply prevents further damage from occurring to your appliances.

Don't use a vacuum to remove the water.

While it may seem like a good idea to use a vacuum to remove standing water, the reality is that this can do more harm than good. Vacs are designed to be used on dry surfaces, and they can cause damage to the electrical system and structure of your home if you try using one on wet carpeting and floors.

Additionally, vacuums have limited suction power--even high-powered ones won't be able to extract every last drop of moisture from your carpet or flooring. This is why it's important not just to get rid of standing water but also to call in professionals who know how best to remove moisture from each type of surface.

Take photos and videos of the water damage.

When you're dealing with water damage, it's easy to forget the details of what happened. Taking photos and videos will help you remember exactly what was damaged and how it should be repaired, which will make the insurance claim process easier for everyone involved.

Take photos of:

• The source of the water (if known)
• Affected areas (wherever there is visible damage)
• Affected items (things that aren't working because of their exposure to moisture)

Call a professional restoration company.

A professional restoration company is the best option for dealing with water damage. The most obvious reason for this is that they have the right tools and training to do the job safely--but there are other reasons as well. A professional restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Stone Oak, will take care of the entire insurance claims process for you. From start to finish, they will work with your insurance company to ensure that you receive the proper compensation. And finally, because of their experience with water damage (and other disasters), they'll know what steps need to be taken in order to minimize further damage after removing excess moisture from your home or office space.

Don't panic, follow these tips instead!

Water damage can be scary, but it's important not to panic and follow these tips instead!

• Take a deep breath. We know that sounds silly, but taking a moment to calm down will help you focus on what needs to be done next.
• Turn off the power to prevent the chance of electrical shock or electrocution
• Don't use a vacuum cleaner to remove any water.
• Call a restoration company.
• Take pictures of the damage.

We hope that this post has given you some helpful tips for dealing with water damage. While it may be scary, it's important not to panic and follow these tips instead!

How To Deal with Water Damage in My Attic

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes in your attic, give SERVPRO of Stone Oak a call today!

Water damage in the attic can be a hidden problem. With proper home maintenance and regular inspections, you can spot water damage early and prevent further problems from occurring.

Leak in Roof

If you suspect your roof is leaking and you want to test it, you can use a spray bottle filled with water. Spray the area where you suspect a leak. If it’s dry when you come back, then there isn’t an issue there.

If it’s still wet after several hours or overnight, then that means there is moisture in the area and it may be time to remove some shingles or tiles and find out the source of the leak.

Once you have found the cause of your leaky roof problem, fix it right away! The longer this goes on for without being corrected, the more damage will be caused inside your home by standing water inside your walls or ceiling areas (this includes woodwork). If left too long without repair work done on them immediately after finding out what caused these leaks through inspection processes. Structural damages such as rot from water damage can cause a lot of money to repair. If you suspect your roof is leaking, give the professionals at SERVPRO of Stone Oak a call today!

Hidden Water Damage

Hidden water damage can be caused by a variety of sources and is often unnoticed by homeowners. For example, roof leaks are often not visible to the naked eye until they have caused enough damage to be noticeable. A leak in your plumbing system or HVAC system may only be detectable after significant damage has been done to ceilings and walls. If you suspect that your attic might contain hidden water damage, it’s important to inspect it thoroughly in order to confirm or refute this possibility.

Roof Damage Causes

Water damage in your attic can be caused by a number of things, including roof leaks and roof damage. Roof repairs are necessary to prevent water damage in your attic if water damage has been present. A damaged roof can cause problems such as cracking, crumbling, or becoming loose. Roof replacement is another option for keeping the water out of your home. Some roofing materials include asphalt shingles (cobalt blue), clay tiles (beige), slate shingles (dark green), metal roofs (silver) and wood shakes/shingles (light brown). Roofing contractors offer services such as installation and repair work on residential homes' roofs including: re-roofing services, maintenance services, emergency response calls, gutter cleaning & repair services.

Roof Inspection

A thorough inspection of your roof is a good first step, as there could be issues with the shingles or flashing that need attention. If you have an attic, check for water damage in the attic space and make sure its venting is sufficient.

First, determine if you have any leaks or water penetrations by checking all gutters, downspouts and roof vents. If any leaky areas are found on your roof surface, they should be repaired immediately to avoid further damage to both the roofing structure and interior spaces below it.

While attic water damage may seem like a daunting problem, the good news is that it's not hard to fix. The key is to recognize the problem as soon as possible and get started with repairs right away. If you're dealing with water damage in your attic, then give SERVPRO of Stone Oak a call today!

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Tornado Damage?

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into what homeowner’s insurance will cover if your home is damaged by a tornado.

It's hard to know what to do when your home has been damaged by a tornado. The damage can range from minor cracks in the foundation or siding to major structural damage and loss of property. If you're wondering if your homeowner's insurance will cover tornado damage, here are some important things to consider: 

Will Homeowner's Insurance Help Replace My Lost Possessions?

Homeowner's insurance will cover damage to your home and most of your possessions in the case of a natural disaster or fire.

How much coverage do you need? That depends on what you own and how much it's worth. Some homeowners choose less coverage so that they can save money on their premiums; however, this doesn't mean you're fully protected from losses in a disaster. Instead of paying more upfront each month for cheaper premiums all year long, consider opting for increased protection against natural disasters like tornadoes or hurricanes instead—the savings over time could end up being worth more than what would have been saved by getting lesser coverage at first blush.

Is There Anything I Can Do to Make Sure My Home is Safer?

Homeowners can do a lot to make sure their homes are safer in the face of tornadoes. To start, they should make sure the roof is in good condition, the windows are in good condition, the doors are in good condition, and any siding is also up to par. The last thing you want is for a tornado to blow right through your window or door and take down half your house with it! You’d be better off finding another place to take shelter if that does happen. 

If you have an extra room or closet on your property (or even inside), install a storm shelter there instead. It could be worth looking into one for your home if you have enough space available on-site already; otherwise, look into placing one off-site near your home. 

Tips to Prepare for a Tornado Before it Strikes.

If you're living in an area that has a high chance of being hit by tornadoes, it's important to know what steps you can take to protect yourself and your home. Tornadoes are unpredictable and can strike without warning, so you should be prepared for the worst. Here are some tips for preparing for a tornado before it strikes:

• Make sure your roof is in good shape. If it's not, have it repaired as soon as possible.
• Clear away any debris near your house—woodpiles and other objects that could get picked up by strong winds could cause structural damage or injury if they're allowed to remain where they are during a storm.

What Should I Do If My Home or Possessions are Damaged by a Tornado?

Do not try to repair the damage yourself. You may be tempted to patch up small holes in your roof or seal cracks in your walls, but this could lead to further problems for you down the road. If you have renter's insurance and the tornado damaged someone else's home that you are renting from, contact the landlord right away so they can file a claim with their own insurer.

If it was your house that was damaged by a tornado, make sure that you get an estimate on how much it will cost to repair all the damage as soon as possible so that both parties are on equal footing when dealing with their insurers later on down the line.

What Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover?

Homeowners insurance helps cover tornado damage to your home depending on where you live, the type and amount of coverage you have and what causes the damage. Most common homeowner insurance policies offer dwelling coverage, which can help cover the cost of repairing or rebuilding your house if a tornado's wind causes damage. 

If windstorm damage is not covered by your policy, it is likely that tornado damage to your home will not be covered by the cost of repairs. Trees may fall as a result of tornadoes, harming your home, vehicle, and the property of others. Depending on the coverage of your policy, your insurer may or may not contribute to the cost of damage brought on by a fallen tree.

Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into what homeowner’s insurance will cover if your home is damaged by a tornado. Now that you know the basics of how to get coverage and what questions to ask, it’s time to start shopping around for quotes! If your home or business has suffered from tornado damage, don’t hesitate and give our SERVPRO team a call today!