Home Repair After Storm Damage

If you have been a victim of storm damage check for downed power lines. If this is the case then contact the electric company as soon as possible. Make sure that you do not drive over or touch a power line as it may be energized. Power lines that are damaged can transmit electrical currents through metal fences and trees. Therefore it is necessary to be extremely careful not to have any contact with these.

After the storm, check to see if the electricity has been restored. If this is the case, turn on your appliances one by one to avoid overloading a circuit. If there is any damage to your electricity, contact a professional electrician to deal with the situation. By law your local power company can only repair the power line coming directly to your home and the meter. Electrical systems and appliances on your home or inside your home is the homeowners responsibility. Any damage to meter box and weather heads are potentially dangerous and should be handle by licensed electricians. Do not attempt to make any repairs yourself. This is extremely danger and can result in fires, electric shocks, damage to appliances and the likes.
If anyone is injured, contact 911 immediately.

When all of the above has been carried out check your home for the following:
A build up of water can cause the foundation of a home to weaken. Check for bulging or cracked areas along outdoor and indoor walls. If all appears to be well, check again over the next few weeks. As it can take months before problems caused by a storm become evident. Be aware of doors that are stuck or cracks in the ceiling as these may be evidence that the foundation has been damaged and the house is shifting. If you are unsure or concerned about the damage contact a professional home inspector for additional advice.

Electrical components such as appliance, furnace or outlets that has been submerged in flood waters should be replaced as contaminates in the water can cause damage to electrical components, which could cause fires. If the heating system has been affected, have it checked by a professional cooling and heating contractor. It may be necessary to replace certain parts rather than the whole unit.

If your basement has been affected by a storm, remove items and dry the basement with fans. Check the outside for any gutters that are loose or detached and fixed immediately. Washed out soil along the foundation walls should be regraded by adding clean filled dirt and sloping it away from the house.

If you have any concerns, always consult a professional who can advice you further in this matter.