COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — With major flooding affecting the Buckeye Lake area and other communities across Central and Southeast Ohio, the Better Business Bureau is offering guidance to residents dealing with water damage to homes, property and vehicles.
Some residents remain evacuated and are waiting to return home and assess the damage. The BBB, Central & Southeast Ohio, is encouraging consumers to document damage, contact their insurance companies and carefully research contractors before beginning major cleanup or repairs.
“When you’re dealing with water in your home, damage to your property, or uncertainty about what you’ll find when you return, there’s an understandable urge to fix everything as quickly as possible,” said Judy Dollison, president of BBB, Central & Southeast Ohio. “Start by documenting the damage and talking with your insurance company. Take reasonable temporary steps to prevent more damage, but give yourself time to research who you trust with the larger cleanup and repairs.”
BBB recommends:
- Document damage first and contact your insurance company promptly. Take clear photos and video of damage to your home, belongings, and vehicles before cleanup begins, when it is safe to do so. Ask about coverage, documentation requirements, deadlines, and what should happen before permanent repairs begin.
- Take reasonable temporary measures when needed. Steps such as tarping a damaged roof or boarding a broken window may help prevent additional damage while you work through the insurance process. Document the work, save receipts and understand exactly what you are authorizing before moving into permanent repairs.
- Expect demand and possible delays. Established contractors and restoration companies may have longer response times after widespread flooding. Continue documenting any new water intrusion or damage while you wait rather than hiring an unresearched contractor simply because someone promises to start immediately.
- Watch for storm chasers. Be cautious of unsolicited offers, pressure to sign immediately, vague business information, large upfront payments, or requests to sign over an insurance check.
- Research before hiring. Compare written estimates when possible.
For more information on documenting damage, temporary repairs, insurance, water cleanup, and storm chasers visit the BBB’s website.
