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Before any assessment begins, the priority after Tropical Storm Bertha is safety. Standing water can conceal hazards, and damaged structures may be unstable. Follow local emergency guidance and wait for official clearance before entering affected properties.
Building the Record
Once conditions allow, thorough documentation matters more than most owners expect. Photograph and video everything before any cleanup begins, including wide shots that establish context and close-ups of specific damage. Note dates and times. Keep receipts for emergency mitigation work such as tarping or water extraction, since these are often reimbursable.
Working the Claim
Report the claim promptly and keep a written log of every conversation with your insurer, including names, dates, and what was said. Standard property policies typically exclude flood damage, which requires separate coverage — a distinction that catches many owners after the fact.
When There's a Gap
Insurance settlements frequently arrive later or lighter than needed, leaving a gap between the payout and the actual repair cost. Investors sometimes bridge that gap with short-term financing to keep a property from sitting damaged and vacant. If that becomes relevant, you can reach our team to talk through the numbers.