Your First Steps After a Disaster

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

You might feel overwhelmed after a disaster, but we are here to help rebuild your home!

It can be difficult to deal with the overwhelming amount of questions running through your head after a disaster strikes. Whether victimized by mold, fire, or water damage we find the first question people need to be answered is: what now?

Safety is always our first priority and it should be yours too. With that in mind, the first question that needs to be answered is if your home is safe to reenter. Disasters can lead to significant structural damage or can contaminate the air around you, making your home uninhabitable. Hopefully, if the house is deemed safe for your return you might think the next logical step is to begin the cleaning process. The best thing you can do is actually take photos of the mess. By documenting the damage done to your home and your belongings you are giving yourself evidence that can be used if there are any issues with insurance claims. Using a camera or your cell phone, try to take pictures of your home. If you lost your camera and phone in the disaster, or if your home is unsafe to a renter, give your SERVPRO of Medford professional a call.

By calling SERVPRO of Medford first we can document the damage on your behalf if needed. We will also be able to give you an honest assessment of the damage done to your home and let you know if going through insurance is your best course of action. The damage to your home may not be significant enough to involve the insurers. There is always a chance—with each claim submission—that your rates could be increased, your deductible doubled, or your policy canceled, leaving you vulnerable.

When submitting a claim to your insurer, they will frequently suggest companies for you to use. These “preferred vendors” typically have agreements in place with the insurance company. As a consumer, it is important to know that you are not obligated to use their vendors. You are allowed to use a company that you already know and trust.

While disasters are never good, they do give you an opportunity to rebuild your house into the home you always wanted. SERVPRO of Medford is ready to help you add that second bathroom you always needed, or the laundry room you’ve dreamed of. If you already loved your home, SERVPRO of Medford can help rebuild your home as if it never happened.