“April showers bring May flowers.” It’s certainly undeniable that this time of year brings with it a lot of rainstorms. These storms can wreak havoc on our homes, causing a lot of property damage. But while we can’t change the weather, we can better prepare for it. Here are 6 tips to plan ahead for Spring storms.
1. Clean out your gutters.
When it rains, water falls onto your roof before emptying to the ground via your gutters. However, when your gutters are filled with branches, leaves, and other debris, they can clog them and back up water on your roof. When this occurs your roof is much likelier to experience damage. Your gutters should also be tightly affixed to your roof so that winds from a storm will not rip them away.
2. Inspect your Roof
Speaking of your gutters and accumulated water, it’s important that you check your roof in the springtime to make sure that the winter has in no way weakened it. With heavy rain and strong winds, a weak roof can prove disastrous.
3. Ensure that no tree branches are hanging over your roof.
If you have trees hanging over your roof, a storm may cause any limbs that hang over your roof to fall, damaging glass, or parts of your roof, among other damages. Since strong winds can pick things up off the ground and toss them into the air, it’s important you also make sure that you keep your property free from loose or broken branches.
4. Caulk Windows & Doors
You should check to ensure that all of your doors and windows are without gaps or cracks. If you have any of these gaps or cracks, strong storms can cause larger fractures and subsequent damage to your home. Therefore, if you find any gaps or cracks you should seal them with caulk. This helps to prevent leaks and water damage.
5. Check Your Sump Pump
A sump pump is a mechanism that helps to remove water from your property. If your home has a sump pump you should check to make sure that it is properly operating. If it fails to work correctly, it can allow water to flood your home, causing damage.
6. Review Insurance Coverage
Be sure to review your insurance coverage with your insurance agent in order to understand what is covered – and what isn’t. You should likely purchase flood insurance, which is separate from your standard policy. Since it generally takes 30 days for your flood insurance to become active, it’s important that you purchase it as soon as possible.
PALUMBO LAW Helps Those in Rhode Island with their Property Insurance Claims
Property damage claims can be very overwhelming – especially when you’re not familiar with exactly how they work. That’s why consulting with a knowledgeable and experienced property insurance attorney can help.
At PALUMBO LAW, our experienced Rhode Island Property Insurance lawyers work strategically to help our clients to get what they deserve. We have deep experience working with insurance companies and understand how to deal with them. If you plan on filing a claim or have done so and been denied, we can help. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, call us today!
