The Storm Is Over. Now It’s Time to Get Smart.
You survived the hurricane — but now comes the hard part: protecting your home, your sanity, and your insurance claim.
Most people make critical mistakes in these first 48 hours. Here’s how to avoid them.
1. Stay Safe. Don’t Rush Back.
It’s tempting to run in and check the damage. Don’t.
Wait for local authorities to confirm your area is safe. Flooding, electrical hazards, and structural damage could make your home dangerous.
Pro tip:
Keep a battery-powered radio or weather app active. And take someone with you if you must enter.
2. Document Everything — Before You Touch Anything
Take pictures. Lots of them. Before cleaning. Before removing. Before covering.
- Photos of the exterior and interior
- Videos walking through the damage
- Close-ups of furniture, walls, ceiling, appliances
This documentation is gold for your claim. Your insurance company will want “proof.” Give it to them on your terms.
3. Prevent Further Damage (But Keep Receipts!)
Once you’ve documented everything, do what’s necessary to stop things from getting worse:
- Cover broken windows
- Tarp the roof
- Shut off electricity or water if needed
Save every receipt. Even the gas you used to buy materials. You may be able to claim these costs.
4. Contact a Public Adjuster — Before the Insurance Company
Here’s what most don’t know:
Your insurer’s adjuster doesn’t work for you. They work for the company.
A licensed public adjuster like Andria Rosendahl works only for you — reviewing your policy, assessing the damage, and negotiating on your behalf.
The earlier you call, the more power you have in your claim.
5. Don’t Sign Anything Yet
Insurance companies love urgency — but it’s not for your benefit.
Avoid signing “quick settlements,” releases, or anything that limits your claim. You may be entitled to far more than their first offer.
Let a public adjuster evaluate the offer first.
Final Thoughts
You only get one chance to file your claim right.
Get a partner who knows the system — and how to make it work for you.
