Homeowner's Storm Recovery Guide

1. Put immediate safety first

• Stay away from downed power lines, damaged electrical equipment, unstable structures, and floodwater.
• If there is an immediate threat to life or safety, contact local emergency services.
• Do not climb onto a roof or enter a damaged structure to document damage.
• Follow instructions from local authorities and utility providers.

2. Record what you can safely observe

• Take photos or video only from a safe location.
• Write down the date, time, and areas affected.
• Keep receipts for reasonable temporary expenses and emergency measures.
• Do not discard damaged items before checking relevant insurer or local instructions, unless safety requires it.

3. Organize calls and documents

• Keep policy and claim information in a secure place.
• Record the name, company, date, and next step for each conversation.
• Ask contractors about licensing, insurance, written scope, payment terms, and expected communication.
• Be cautious of high-pressure requests, vague estimates, or promises of guaranteed insurance outcomes.

4. Questions to ask a repair professional

• What work do you recommend, and why?
• What is included and excluded from the written estimate?
• Who will perform the work and who is responsible for updates?
• What conditions could change the price or schedule?
• How should I contact you if I have a question or need to update the request?

5. Keep a simple next-step log

Issue / Person contacted / Date / Agreed next step / Follow-up date

Use one consistent place to track open questions so nothing depends only on memory.