When it rains a lot, it can cause damage to our homes and buildings. This is why it’s important to know how to take care of our property during the rainy season. The attorneys at Flores & Pelaez-Prada have compiled a list of tips to prevent damage.
✓ Keep the Water Away:
To keep water from coming inside, it’s important to make sure that the gutters and downspouts are clean. Take out any leaves or debris regularly so that the water can flow away from your house.
If your area gets a lot of rain, think about getting a pump to prevent flooding in your basement.
✓ Check for Problems:
It’s a good idea to look for any issues that might cause problems during the rainy season. Check for cracks in the walls or foundation, loose roof shingles, or broken seals around windows and doors. Fixing these things before it rains can help keep water out of your home.
✓ Take Care of Your Yard:
The way your yard is set up can help protect your home during the rainy season. Make sure the ground slopes away from your house so that water doesn’t collect near the foundation. You can also plant trees and bushes that absorb water and keep the soil in place.
✓ Add Extra Protection:
Depending on where you live and how bad the rainy season is, you might want to think about getting extra protection. Flood barriers or special doors and windows can help keep water out. If hurricanes are common in your area, consider installing shutters or reinforcing your roof.
✓ Keep a Record:
Before it starts raining a lot, take pictures or videos of your home and your belongings. This way, if something gets damaged, you have proof of what it looked like before. This can help you when you file a claim and talk to your insurance company.
✓ Filing an Insurance Claim:
If your property gets damaged during the rainy season, you need to let your insurance company know promptly. Here’s what you should do:
1. Read Your Policy: Look at your insurance policy and find out what it covers and what it doesn’t. Pay attention to things related to water damage, floods, and deductibles.
2. Document the Damage: Take lots of pictures or videos of the damage. Make a list of the things that got damaged or are missing.
3. Tell Your Insurance Company: Call or email your insurance company as soon as you can. Give them the pictures, videos, and list you made.
4. Keep Good Records: Write down all the important information about your claim. Keep copies of everything you send or get from your insurance company.
5. Get Help if You Need It: If you’re having trouble with your insurance claim, call our attorneys right away! Don’t accept defeat with a denial or underpayment, you have options. Our attorneys will fight for your rights.
