What to Do After Blizzard Damage

Blizzards can cause severe damage to your home, from fallen trees and roof collapses to burst pipes and power outages. In the chaos, it's vital to stay calm, prioritize safety, and act swiftly and correctly. This guide walks you through the essential steps to take immediately after a blizzard damages your property, helping you secure your home, document everything for insurance, and plan for repairs.

Immediate Safety Steps (First 24 Hours)

Your safety comes first. Follow these critical steps in the immediate aftermath of a blizzard.

1. Ensure Personal and Family Safety

• Check for injuries: If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately.
• Avoid hazards: Stay away from downed power lines, broken trees, and unstable structures.
• Limit exposure: Dress warmly to prevent hypothermia if you must stay outside.

2. Confirm Structural Stability

• Assess your home from inside: Look for signs of structural damage—cracks, sagging ceilings, or collapsed walls.
• Exit if unsafe: If your home shows signs of imminent collapse or severe damage, evacuate immediately.

3. Prevent Further Damage

• Cover openings: Use tarps, blankets, or plastic sheeting over broken windows and roof openings to prevent additional snow, wind, or water intrusion.
• Shut off utilities: Turn off gas, electricity, and water if you detect leaks, smells of gas, or if the home is unsafe.

4. Protect Your Property

• Clear pathways: Remove snow and debris from around your home to prevent further damage and allow emergency access.
• Document hazards: Take note of any hazards like hanging power lines or unstable trees.

5. Contact Emergency Services

• If the situation is dangerous or life-threatening, call 911 or your local emergency line.

Damage Assessment and Documentation

Accurate documentation is essential for insurance claims and future repairs.

6. Conduct a Detailed Inspection

• Exterior: Check for roof damage, fallen trees, broken gutters, or structural issues.
• Interior: Look for water leaks, fallen ceilings, broken windows, or damaged walls.
• Utilities: Note any outages or damages to electrical, gas, and water systems.

7. Take Photographs and Videos

• Photograph everything: Capture images of damage from multiple angles.
• Record details: Note dates, times, and descriptions of each issue.
• Create a damage inventory: List all damaged items, including appliances, furniture, and personal belongings.

8. Keep a Damage Log

• Record ongoing issues, repairs attempted, and conversations with contractors or insurance agents.

Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage

Mitigate additional losses with these practical steps.

9. Clear Snow and Ice

• Remove accumulated snow: Safely clear snow from roofs and around foundations to prevent structural overload.
• Use proper equipment: Use snow shovels or snow blowers, avoiding excessive weight on weakened structures.

10. Cover Exposed Openings

• Seal gaps: Use plastic sheeting, plywood, or tarps over broken windows or roof sections.
• Secure coverings: Use nails, staples, or heavy-duty tape to hold coverings in place against wind.

11. Stop Water Intrusion

• Seal leaks: Use waterproof tape or caulk around damaged pipes, windows, or roof penetrations.
• Drain water: If safe, remove accumulated water from basements or lower levels to prevent mold and further damage.

12. Turn Off Utilities if Necessary

• Gas: Shut off if you smell gas or hear hissing.
• Water: Shut off if pipes have burst.
• Electricity: Turn off if there’s water exposure or electrical damage.

When to Call a Professional

Not all repairs are DIY. Recognize when to hire licensed professionals.

13. Structural Repairs

• Roof damage, large fallen trees, or compromised walls require licensed contractors.
• Get estimates from reputable companies. Use resources like GetFixn.com to find qualified local contractors.

14. Utility Repairs

• Gas leaks, electrical wiring issues, or water line damages should be handled by licensed plumbers, electricians, or utility companies.

15. Tree Removal and Land Clearing

• Hire certified arborists for hazardous trees or fallen limbs that threaten your home or power lines.

16. Long-term Repairs

• For extensive damage, schedule inspections and repairs promptly to prevent worsening issues.

Insurance Claims: Practical Tips

Navigating insurance after a blizzard can be complex. Follow these practical steps:

17. Contact Your Insurance Company Promptly

• Report damages as soon as possible.
• Keep detailed records of all communications.

18. Document Everything

• Use your photos, videos, and damage logs.
• Provide clear, chronological evidence of damages.

19. Understand Your Policy

• Know your coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions.
• Clarify what types of damages are covered—such as roof damage, fallen trees, or water intrusion.

20. Get Repair Estimates

• Obtain written estimates from licensed contractors.
• Share these with your insurer to support your claim.

21. Avoid Unauthorized Repairs

• Get approval before making significant repairs that could affect your claim.
• Keep receipts and documentation for all expenses.

22. Follow Up Regularly

• Keep in touch with your claims adjuster.
• Request updates and clarification on claim status.

Long-term Repairs and Restoration

Once immediate safety and temporary fixes are complete, focus on restoring your home.

23. Schedule Permanent Repairs

• Prioritize essential systems like roofing, plumbing, and electrical work.
• Obtain multiple bids and verify contractor credentials.

24. Prevent Future Damage

• Reinforce vulnerable areas, such as adding roof supports or installing snow guards.
• Trim trees and remove debris near your home.

25. Consider Upgrades

• Use this opportunity to upgrade insulation, windows, or roofing materials for better winter resilience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (What NOT to Do)

• Don’t delay reporting damages: Waiting can complicate insurance claims.
• Don’t neglect safety: Never enter a structurally compromised home or handle dangerous hazards alone.
• Don’t make unauthorized repairs: These can jeopardize your insurance coverage.
• Don’t forget to document: Lack of evidence can hinder claims and future repairs.
• Don’t ignore utility issues: Gas leaks or electrical hazards require professional attention immediately.
• Don’t attempt complex repairs yourself unless qualified: When in doubt, call a licensed contractor.

Final Advice

Blizzard damage can be overwhelming, especially when your home is involved. Stay calm, follow these steps methodically, and prioritize safety at every stage. Proper documentation, timely repairs, and clear communication with your insurance provider are key to restoring your home efficiently.

For trusted local contractors and professional restoration services, visit GetFixn.com, where you can find vetted experts to help you through every phase of recovery.

Remember: acting swiftly and wisely now can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Stay safe.