No one can perfectly prepare for a storm. Every building will need emergency damage restoration at some point in its life. If you want to make your emergency damage restoration process as quick and inexpensive as possible, pay attention to these five factors that influence how long restoration will take.

1. What emergency repairs happened

Emergency repairs can stop storm damage from spreading. Simple tasks like taping tarps over a hole in a wall or ceiling will slow the progression of damage. Emergency damage restoration by a professional take over where DIY attempts end. Give them a good foundation by keeping a storm kit of essentials for the building on hand in the case of storms. Tarp, duct tape, and basic tools are all you need. Moreover, make sure that you know how to shut off the electricity or water on demand—this can have a huge impact on your efforts.

2. How much water damage occurred

Water damage is the damage that just keeps on going. Water seeps into walls, soaks into fabrics, and spreads as long as it remains unchecked. A storm that carries more wind and less rain will be quicker to restore than a downpour. Secure dry damage with a tarp (as in the point above) so that water doesn’t get inside the walls, floors, and other areas of the home.

3. Whether you already work with a restoration company

Restoration companies don’t have to just come in for emergency damage restoration. Many companies offer maintenance services for many aspects of commercial and residential cleaning and care. In addition, contacting a restoration company before an emergency means that you’ll know who to call when disaster happens. Having an established relationship with a company greatly shortens the process of retaining services. You don’t have to shop around or compare estimates, just hire the company whose work you trust.

4. Maintenance preparation before the storm

Maintenance preparation before a storm is key to keeping emergency damage restoration light and minimal. Take care of the trees on your property, and urge your neighbors to take care of theirs. Get your roof inspected before the end of the season so you know it can withstand the incoming winds of winter. Close all your windows when you hear that a storm is coming. Most of all, double check your preparations around the house. It’s easy to assume you’ve closed every window and prepared for emergency DIY repairs. However, if you’re mistaken, you don’t want to find out after the storm hits. Reducing damage potential greatly reduces the length of restoration required after a storm.

5. How you handle insurance

Insurance is a huge issue surrounding emergency damage repair. You want to find a restoration company that’s willing to help you with your insurance claim. For example, ask if they document all their work process and fill out required forms from your insurance company. Tackling the burden of insurance paperwork on your own, only makes the claims process drag out longer.

In conclusion, emergency damage restoration surprises even the most careful planner. Putting your attention into these five factor reduces the length of time you’re dealing with repairs. The best time to reduce damage is before it strikes.