Immediate Steps After a Storm

  1. Stay safe. Do not climb onto a damaged roof. Check for downed power lines near your property.
  2. Document everything. Take photos and video of all visible damage from the ground — roof, siding, gutters, windows, yard debris.
  3. Prevent further damage. If water is entering your home, place buckets and move belongings. If safe, tarp exposed areas or call a contractor for emergency tarping.

How to Document Damage for Insurance

Take dated photos from multiple angles. Note the date, time, and weather event. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary materials. Your insurer will need all of this.

Filing an Insurance Claim

Contact your insurer within 24–48 hours. They will send an adjuster, but get your own contractor estimate first. Adjuster estimates are often lower than actual repair costs — an independent estimate gives you leverage.

Choosing a Storm Damage Contractor

After major storms, out-of-state "storm chasers" flood Michigan neighborhoods with door-to-door pitches. Protect yourself:

  • Verify Michigan builder's license at michigan.gov/lara
  • Confirm local address — not a P.O. box or hotel room
  • Never sign over your insurance claim to a contractor
  • Get a written scope and price before work starts

Temporary vs. Permanent Repair

Emergency tarping prevents further water damage while you schedule a full repair. Most insurance policies cover reasonable temporary repairs. Save receipts — these costs are typically reimbursed.

Grand City Builders Storm Response

We are a licensed local contractor (MI #262500501) headquartered in Kent City. After a storm, we offer free damage inspections, help you document damage for your claim, and provide written repair estimates. No pressure, no storm-chaser tactics. Call (616) 886-7138.