When a storm tears through your neighborhood, the damage it leaves behind can feel overwhelming. On top of worrying about your family’s safety and your home, you’re suddenly thrown into the world of insurance claims, adjusters, and repairs.
To make that process less stressful, we sat down with restoration expert Jay Brooks to talk through the most common questions homeowners have after storm damage: how to document the loss, whether you really need multiple estimates, and who you should call first.
Step One: Document Your Storm Damage Thoroughly
According to Jay, the most important thing you can do right after a storm (once it’s safe) is document everything.
“The easiest way to document storm damage for your insurance company is by simply taking a lot of pictures,” Jay explains.
Here are some practical tips based on Jay’s guidance:
- Take many photos, not just a few.
Capture wide shots of each affected room or area, then zoom in for close‑ups of specific damage like broken windows, roof leaks, damaged flooring, and soaked belongings.
- Document both exterior and interior damage.
Don’t forget the roof, siding, gutters, fences, decks, and outdoor structures, along with any water intrusion or visible damage inside.
- Photograph affected materials and products.
Get clear images of flooring types, cabinets, appliances, furniture, and personal items that were damaged. This helps your insurance company and restoration team understand what was affected and what it may cost to replace.
- Capture “real-time” conditions.
The sooner you take photos after the storm, the better they reflect the actual conditions. This visual record helps everyone involved—your insurance company, adjuster, and restoration contractor—see what they’re walking into and make more accurate decisions.
Good documentation sets the stage for a smoother claim and a faster path to repairs.
Do You Need Multiple Estimates for a Storm Claim?
Homeowners often assume they must collect several estimates before their insurance company will move forward. Jay says that’s usually not the case.
“You do not typically need multiple estimates for a storm claim,” Jay notes. “If you use your insurance company and a restoration company of your choice, you are not required to get multiple estimates.”
In most situations:
- You are free to choose a trusted restoration contractor.
Your insurance policy normally allows you to select the company you want to work with.
- Multiple estimates are optional, not mandatory.
You may get more than one estimate if it makes you feel more comfortable, but it’s generally not a requirement for your claim to move forward.
Working with an experienced restoration company like Paul Davis can streamline the process. We’re used to coordinating directly with insurance carriers, documenting damage, and helping ensure the scope of work is appropriate for the loss.
Who Should You Call First: Insurer or Contractor?
When storm damage happens, it’s natural to want a contractor on site immediately. However, Jay recommends starting with your insurance company.
“After storm damage, it’s best to call your insurance company to make sure that your policies cover certain aspects of the damage,” Jay explains.
Here’s why calling your insurer first is important:
- They confirm what’s covered.
Your insurance company can walk you through your policy, explain your deductible, and clarify which parts of the damage are eligible for coverage.
- You avoid surprises later.
If you hire a contractor and authorize work before talking to your insurer, you might discover some of that work isn’t covered under your policy. That can leave you responsible for unexpected out‑of‑pocket costs.
- They can guide your next steps.
Many insurers will give you a claim number and may even recommend that you contact a qualified restoration company (like Paul Davis) for emergency mitigation and repairs once the claim is opened.
Once you’ve spoken to your insurance company and started a claim, that’s the perfect time to call a professional restoration contractor. A company like Paul Davis can:
- Inspect and document the damage in detail
- Help prevent further damage with emergency services
- Work with your insurance adjuster on scope and pricing
- Restore your property as quickly and responsibly as possible
Partner with Paul Davis After the Storm
Storms are unpredictable—but your response doesn’t have to be. By:
- Thoroughly documenting your damage with photos
- Understanding that multiple estimates are usually optional
- Calling your insurance company first to confirm coverage
…you set yourself up for a smoother claim and a faster recovery.
When you’re ready to start repairs, Paul Davis is here to help. Our team works closely with homeowners and insurance companies every day to restore homes after storm, wind, and water damage.
If your property has been affected by a recent storm, contact your insurer to start a claim—then reach out to Paul Davis. We’ll help guide you through the restoration process and get your home back to normal as quickly and safely as possible.
