Tornadoes are a reality for Michigan homeowners, with dozens of tornadoes reported each year across the state. While some are minor, others can leave significant destruction in their wake, damaging homes, uprooting trees, and disrupting lives. Knowing what to do after a tornado hits is critical for your safety and the recovery of your home. This guide explains the steps you should take if a tornado damages your home and how Exact Recon can help restore it.

What If a Tornado Damages My Home?

If a tornado damages your home, taking immediate action can protect your property and speed up the recovery process. This guide covers:

Ensuring your safety after a tornado
Assessing and documenting the damage
Protecting your property from further damage
Navigating the insurance claims process
How Exact Recon helps Michigan homeowners recover

Here’s a closer look at each step.

Ensuring Your Safety After a Tornado

Your safety is the top priority after a tornado. Tornadoes can leave behind structural hazards, downed power lines, and debris that pose serious risks. Follow these steps to stay safe:

Evacuate unsafe areas: If your home has visible structural damage, such as collapsed walls or a damaged roof, evacuate immediately.
Watch for hazards: Avoid downed power lines, gas leaks, and sharp debris. Contact emergency services if you notice any immediate dangers.
Check on neighbors: If it’s safe to do so, check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with mobility challenges.

Stay tuned to local weather updates for information about ongoing risks, such as additional storms or flooding.

Assessing and Documenting the Damage

Once it’s safe to return, assess the damage to your home. Tornadoes can cause a range of issues, from roof and siding damage to broken windows and interior water damage. Document everything by taking photos and videos of:

Roof, siding, and structural damage
Broken windows and doors
Water-damaged walls, ceilings, and flooring
Damage to personal belongings

Thorough documentation is essential for filing an insurance claim and ensuring you receive adequate compensation for repairs.

Protecting Your Property From Further Damage

Taking steps to prevent additional damage can save time and money during the recovery process. Temporary fixes include:

Tarping the roof: Cover holes in your roof with tarps to prevent water intrusion.
Boarding up windows: Use plywood to seal broken windows and doors.
Moving valuables: Relocate undamaged belongings to a safe, dry location.

While these measures are temporary, they can help protect your home until professional repairs begin.

Navigating the Insurance Claims Process

Filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming after a tornado, but understanding the process can make it smoother. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. Provide them with:

Detailed photos and videos of the damage
An inventory of damaged belongings
Receipts for temporary repairs and lodging, if applicable

Exact Recon works directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process. Our team provides detailed repair estimates and documentation to ensure your claim is handled efficiently.

How Exact Recon Helps Michigan Homeowners Recover

At Exact Recon, we specialize in restoring homes after tornado damage. Serving Ann Arbor, Jackson, and beyond, we handle every aspect of recovery, including:

Structural repairs: From roof replacements to wall reconstruction, we ensure your home is safe and stable.
Water damage restoration: Tornadoes often bring heavy rains, leading to water damage. We provide expert water extraction, drying, and mold prevention services.
Debris cleanup: Our team removes hazardous debris, such as fallen trees, broken glass, and building materials, to restore safety to your property.
Smoke and fire damage restoration: If a tornado sparks fires in your area, we also address smoke and fire damage to your home.

Our team works closely with your insurance provider, handling all documentation and communication to simplify the process for you.

FAQ About Tornado Damage to Homes

Check out these commonly asked questions about tornado damage. If you don’t see your question here, please call our office and we’ll find you the answers you need.

How Common Are Tornadoes in Michigan?

Michigan averages 15 to 20 tornadoes per year, with peak activity in late spring and early summer. Tornadoes can occur anywhere in the state, making preparedness essential.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Tornado?

Ensure your safety, evacuate damaged areas, and contact emergency services for immediate hazards. Once it’s safe, document the damage and call Exact Recon to begin the restoration process.

Does Insurance Cover Tornado Damage?

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover tornado damage, including structural repairs and debris removal. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.

Can Tornado Damage Be Prevented?

While you can’t prevent a tornado, steps like reinforcing your roof, sealing windows, and maintaining your property can reduce potential damage.

How Long Does Tornado Damage Restoration Take?

The timeline depends on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs may take a few days, while extensive reconstruction could take weeks or months.

Tornado damage can be devastating, but with the right approach and professional help, you can restore your home and move forward. Trust Exact Recon to handle every step of the recovery process with care and expertise.