It's going to be a long, cold winter. If you live in a region that's experiencing heavy snowfall, you need to be ready for anything. Just one extreme winter storm, with blizzard conditions, can destroy your home and leave you out in the cold. If you're experiencing a extreme winter storm right now, you'll need to act fast. Here are just four of the steps you'll need to take to get the help you need.
Be Prepared in Advance
One of the best things you can do to survive a brutal winter is to prepare in advance. As soon as you know that extreme weather is in the forecast, take steps to get prepared. The first thing you should do is gather plenty of warm blankets and clothes. You'll need those in case you're forced to leave your home, which could happen if damages occur. Next, you'll need to gather all your insurance documents. This will ensure that you'll have what you need should it become necessary to file an insurance claim. Finally, take pictures or video of all your possessions.
Contact Your Insurance Agent
If blizzard conditions damage your home, you'll need to contact your home insurance agent as soon as possible, especially if your home is uninhabitable. Your insurance agent will help arrange emergency housing for you and your family. Be sure to contact your insurance agent before you begin any permanent repairs on your home, and before you speak to a public adjuster. Your insurance agent will make sure that your claim is submitted in a timely manner so that you can be compensated for those repairs.
Do What You Can to Prevent Further Damage
You don't want to tackle any permanent repairs before your claim is approved. However, you do want to take care of temporary repairs. Those temporary repairs will help prevent further damage. For instance, if your roof has caved in, take measures to secure the area. If your windows have broken, take measures to get them covered with plywood as soon as possible. It's also a good idea to turn the water off to your home. The last thing you want is to have your pipes burst while you're waiting for the cleanup crew.
Keep All Your Receipts in a Safe Place
While your home is being repaired, you'll be spending some of your own money on repairs and living expenses. Don't forget to keep all your receipts. It's also a good idea to invest in a lock box. You'll be able to store all your receipts in a safe place so that you can hand them in for reimbursement. Remember, the insurance company can't reimburse you for your expenses unless you have your receipts.