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Hurricane Helene Recovery Assistance and Emergency Resources

Natural disasters can leave a morbid path of destruction and families in need of urgent help. Learn how an Atlanta-based roofing company dispatched its assets and staff to assist East and South Georgia’s recovery efforts and help those affected return to normalcy.

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about Hurricane Helene, the damage and devastation it left in its path, valuable emergency resources, and what the company has invested to assist the urgent ongoing recovery efforts.

Hurricane Helene Devastation

Hurricane Helene came ashore with relentless force, causing significant destruction across the Southeastern United States. The storm brought powerful winds, torrential rain, and widespread flooding, severely damaging infrastructure and homes.

Wind Speeds – Helene brought sustained winds of up to 140 mph. These winds uprooted trees, tore roofs from buildings, and flattened homes and businesses.

Flooding – Inundating rainfall led to flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. The storm surge also pushed ocean water far inland, overwhelming dams, creeks, and rivers.

Tornadoes – The storm system spawned numerous tornadoes in its path, increasing the destruction, especially in rural areas.

Injuries and Fatalities – Hurricane Helene resulted in more than 100 confirmed deaths (this number keeps rising), with many others still missing. Emergency response teams reported over 100 severe injuries from flying debris, collapsed structures, and drowning.

FEMA assistance is available for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Read more HERE and apply online HERE.

Watch this video from FEMA Accessible on how to register for individual assistance.

Structural Damage Across the Region

The storm left entire neighborhoods in ruins, especially in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Helene’s destructive winds and water caused the following:

Residential Damage – Tens of thousands of homes sustained damage, with many losing roofs or collapsing under the weight of floodwaters.

Business Closures – Thousands of businesses in Hazlehurst and Valdosta closed indefinitely. Their buildings were either destroyed or severely compromised.

Infrastructure Failures – Highways and bridges sustained significant damage, limiting access to relief workers. Municipal buildings, hospitals, and schools also suffered extensive destruction.

Watch this video to see the extent of damages caused by Hurricane Helene.

Widespread Power Outages

Hurricane Helene crippled the Southeast’s power grid, leaving millions of people without electricity. Hazlehurst and Valdosta were among the communities that suffered prolonged outages.

Downed Power Lines – The hurricane’s winds snapped power lines and knocked down transmission towers. Repair efforts are underway, but power may not fully return to the region for several weeks.

Report Downed Power Lines to Georgia Power at (888) 891-0938 or 911.

Communication Issues – With the power grid offline, internet, cellular networks, and landline communications remain limited in many areas, further complicating relief and recovery efforts.

Water Supply and Sanitation – The lack of power affected water treatment plants, leading to boil-water advisories and concerns about sanitation in many affected areas.

New Image Roofing Atlanta’s Response

New Image Roofing Atlanta swiftly mobilized its teams to aid in the recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Understanding the critical role roofing companies play in storm recovery, New Image Roofing prioritized getting boots on the ground in Hazlehurst and Valdosta.

Team Deployment – New Image Roofing Atlanta teams immediately traveled to Hazlehurst and Valdosta, two of the hardest-hit regions. The teams are currently patching damaged roofs, removing debris, and offering long-term repair and replacement solutions.

Emergency Repairs – Many homes and businesses needed immediate attention to prevent further water damage and protect the remaining structures. New Image Roofing’s crews have focused on temporary tarping solutions and quick roof repairs, with more extensive repairs and replacements to follow.

Specialized Assistance – With decades of experience in disaster recovery, New Image Roofing’s teams are equipped to handle residential and commercial needs. They work with local authorities to prioritize the most vulnerable buildings, including shelters, hospitals, and schools.

Community Commitment – New Image Roofing Atlanta aims to be more than just a repair service. The company provides free estimates and helps residents navigate insurance claims.

Our company is here to help! Contact us for your residential or commercial roofing needs at www.newimageroofingatlanta.com/contact or call 404-680-0041.

The Ongoing Hurricane Season

Hurricane Helene struck during a particularly active hurricane season, from June 1 to November 30. This leaves the Southeast vulnerable to additional severe storms before the end of the season. Experts warn that the region may not have enough time to fully recover from Helene before another significant weather event hits.

Vulnerability to Future Storms – With so many buildings already damaged or weakened, the danger of another hurricane or severe storm poses a significant threat. The region remains vulnerable to additional flooding, wind damage, and infrastructure collapse.

Forecast for More Storms – Meteorologists predict an increased likelihood of tropical storms or hurricanes hitting the Southeast before the season ends. Communities must brace for more potential disruptions and losses.

For more Hurricane preparedness information, read THIS ARTICLE.

Stay up-to-date with local and national weather at weather.com

Urgency of Repairs – With the possibility of another storm looming, the need for quick repairs and stabilization efforts is critical. New Image Roofing Atlanta’s teams are racing against time to restore homes and commercial properties before the next potential disaster.

Watch this video to learn how hurricanes form.

Recovery Challenges and the Road Ahead

Recovering from Hurricane Helene will be long and challenging, requiring significant resources and community cooperation. While roofing repairs and replacements are a vital first step, much work remains to bring life back to normal for those affected.

Housing Shortages – Many families remain displaced as their homes are uninhabitable. Temporary shelters are at capacity, and rebuilding efforts are slow due to material and labor shortages.

Economic Impact – Businesses, especially small local establishments, face tremendous financial strain. Without rapid rebuilding, many may not recover from the losses incurred during and after the hurricane.

Mental Health and Well-Being – The emotional toll of such devastation is often overlooked. Families are dealing with the loss of loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. The psychological impact of the hurricane will linger long after the physical recovery is complete. For help, contact SAMHSA at samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline or call 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990.

Individual Assistance – In Georgia, contact “Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency” HERE, you can also call (404) 635-7200 or call toll-free at 1-800-879-4362.

Immediate Assistance – Contact The American Red Cross for immediate assistance at https://www.redcross.org/get-help.html or call 1 800 RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Financial Help – See if you qualify for financial assistance at usa.gov/disaster-financial-help

Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts

Hurricane Helene left a trail of devastation in the Southeast, affecting Georgia and several neighboring states. The storm’s impact was immediate and severe, and the recovery process will take time and effort.

Hurricane Helene’s impact on the Southeast has been catastrophic. However, the response from companies like New Image Roofing Atlanta brings hope to affected communities. As the hurricane season continues, the urgency for rebuilding grows. Hazlehurst and Valdosta residents can rely on New Image Roofing’s commitment to restoring their homes and businesses, but the challenge remains far from over.

Hazlehurst and Valdosta, Georgia, communities were among the most significantly damaged.. To assist in the rebuilding efforts, New Image Roofing Atlanta dispatched specialized teams to help restore homes and businesses in these regions. These communities must remain vigilant, prepare for future storms, and support each other through the long road to recovery.

Sources:
fema.gov/press-release/20241004/fema-assistance-available-people-affected-hurricane-helene-more-45-million
usa.gov/hurricane-helene
epa.gov/hurricane-response/hurricane-helene
dhs.gov/news/2024/09/25/dhs-statement-safety-and-enforcement-during-hurricane-helene

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

October 5, 2024/by Hayley Mace

Lightning Strikes on Residential Roofs – Causes, Damage, and Prevention

Residential Roofing

Avoid costly structural damage and destructive power surges when lightning strikes your home. Understanding the power lightning carries and how to divert it will help prevent catastrophic lightning damage to your home.

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information about how lightning strikes affect a home’s electrical systems, appliances, and structural integrity and what you can do to mitigate them.

How Lightning Forms

Lightning forms during thunderstorms resulting from imbalances between positive and negative charges in the atmosphere. Ice crystals and water droplets collide in a storm, creating an electrical charge buildup. A cloud’s upper portion typically holds positive charges, while the lower section becomes negatively charged.

When this imbalance grows large enough, nature corrects it by discharging electricity as a lightning strike. The bolt either moves within the cloud, between clouds, or between the cloud and the ground. A lightning strike to the ground occurs when the negative charge at the cloud’s bottom seeks to connect with positive charges on the Earth’s surface.

What Attracts Lightning?

Lightning seeks the least resistant path to connect to the ground. This often means it targets tall or conductive objects. Here are some common attractors:

Tall Objects – Lightning frequently strikes the highest point in an area, like trees, utility poles, or a home’s roof.

Conductive Materials – Lightning is attracted to conductive materials like metals. Roofs with metal flashing or metal objects mounted on them (like satellite dishes, antennas, or chimneys) may become targets for lightning.

Water and Wet Surfaces – Water is an excellent electricity conductor. If a roof is wet, it can enhance conductivity, making it more attractive to lightning.

Note: Lightning doesn’t need to hit the exact rooftop to cause damage. Even nearby strikes can result in electrical surges and fires within your home.

Energy in a Lightning Strike

Lightning is powerful. The average lightning bolt can contain up to 1 billion electrical volts with temperatures exceeding 50,000°F (five times hotter than the sun’s surface). The energy released by a lightning strike can be up to 300 kilowatt-hours in a fraction of a second. This immense energy release can damage everything, including electronics, electrical wiring, and a home’s structural integrity.

Potential Damage to a Home’s Structure and Electronics

A direct lightning strike to a residential roof can cause various damages, including:

Fire Damage – The intense heat from a lightning strike can ignite combustible materials like wood and shingles on a home’s roof. Even metal roofs are not immune to fire risks since the heat can reach high enough temperatures to cause surrounding materials to catch fire.

Roof Damage – A lightning strike’s force can shatter roof tiles, damage shingles, or puncture holes in the roof. This leaves the home vulnerable to further damage from rainwater entering the structure.

Electrical Damage – Power surges are among the most common lightning results. When lightning strikes a home or nearby power lines, the surge can travel through electrical wiring, destroying appliances and electronics. Devices like televisions, computers, and HVAC systems are particularly vulnerable.

Plumbing Damage – If your home has metal plumbing, lightning can travel through it, leading to ruptures, leaks, or electrocution hazards.

Structural Damage – A lightning strike’s force can cause cracks in walls, damage to chimneys, and even foundation movement in extreme cases.

Who to Call After a Lightning Strike

If your home is struck by lightning, you should immediately ensure your family’s and your property’s safety. Here’s who to contact:

Emergency Services – If you notice fire, smoke, or gas leak indications after a lightning strike, call 911 immediately. Lightning-induced fires can spread quickly, and first responders can prevent an issue from becoming catastrophic.

Electrician – Even if there are no immediate damage signs, have an electrician inspect your home’s electrical system. A surge from a lightning strike can cause hidden damage to your wiring, outlets, and appliances that may lead to future problems or fire risks.

Roofer – A licensed professional roofing contractor should inspect your roof for any damage caused by the strike. Even small punctures or cracks in the shingles can lead to leaks and water damage over time.

Plumber – If your home has metal plumbing, a plumber should inspect your pipes for damages. Lightning can cause holes in pipes or weaken them, leading to potential leaks or bursts later on.

Insurance Company – Lightning strikes are usually covered by homeowner’s insurance policies. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Be sure to document all visible damage and keep any receipts for emergency repairs.

Watch this video to learn more about insurance coverage and deductibles.

Preventing and Diverting Lightning Strikes

While you can’t stop a lightning strike from happening, there are several steps you can take to minimize damage risks to your home:

Install a Lightning Protection System – A lightning rod system is designed to direct a lightning strike’s energy safely into the ground, preventing damage to your home. The system typically includes rods, conductors, and ground rods that create a low-resistance path for the electricity to follow.

Surge Protectors – Install whole-home surge protectors to help guard against power surges from lightning. These devices are connected to your home’s main electrical panel, preventing excess electricity from reaching your outlets and appliances.

Unplug Electronics – During a storm, it’s best to unplug sensitive electronics like televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances. While surge protectors help, unplugging devices offers maximum protection from surges.

Tree Trimming – Trees near your home can become targets for lightning. Keep them trimmed and ensure that large limbs are not hanging over your roof. If lightning strikes a tree, falling or ejected branches can cause significant damage to your roof.

Use Non-Combustible Roofing Materials – If you live in an area prone to lightning, consider using fire-resistant roofing materials like metal or tile. These materials are less likely to ignite compared to traditional asphalt shingles.

Read more about lightning strike prevention HERE.

Lightning and Residential Structures

In this article, you discovered how lightning strikes affect residential structures, the damage they cause, how to divert them, and what to do after one.

Knowing how to divert or prevent residential lightning strikes can help avoid costly structural and electrical damage.

Ignoring the need for lightning protection systems and using non-conductive material in your home’s construction can lead to catastrophic damage to your structure and electronic systems/equipment, resulting in an uninhabitable residence.

Sources:
noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning-safety
nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/IR/nistir89-4113.pdf
nfpa.org/news-blogs-and-articles/blogs/2024/09/11/nfpa-780-and-protecting-buildings-from-lightning-strikes

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

October 2, 2024/by Hayley Mace

A Tree Fell on My Roof – How to Respond

Roof Emergency

Avoid panic and despair when a tree falls on your roof. Knowing how to promptly respond to a tree falling on your roof will help you minimize structural damages while restoring a safe and secure home for your loved ones.

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information about when a tree falls on your roof, ensuing inspections, recovery and repairs, and who to contact.

Immediate Damages to the Roof and Home

When a tree falls on your roof (shingle or membrane), the damage is immediate and potentially catastrophic. Whether a sloped (shingle) or low-slope roof, a tree impact can lead to severe structural damage, roof collapse, and secondary water, electrical, and gas problems. Consider the following:

Sloped Shingle Roofs

Sloped shingle roofs, often found on residential homes, are more vulnerable to immediate damage when a tree falls on them. A tree impact can cause the following damage:

Roof Penetration – Depending on the tree’s size and weight, it can break through the shingle layers, underlayment, and sheathing, causing a large hole in the roof. This exposes your home to the elements, allowing rainwater, debris, and wind to enter the structure.

Structural Damage – Roof trusses and support beams, designed to hold up the roof, may be severely compromised. A heavy tree could cause the trusses to buckle or collapse entirely, damaging inside the home.

Water Damage – Once a roof is penetrated, rainwater can enter the attic and living spaces. Over time, this can lead to significant water damage, including mold growth, damage to insulation, and rot in the wooden roof and ceiling structures.

Gutter and Drainage Damage – A fallen tree can also damage gutters, downspouts, and the drainage system, causing water to accumulate around the foundation or enter the home through other vulnerabilities.

Low-Slope Roofs

Low-slope roofs, common on commercial buildings or modern homes, can also suffer severe damage from a tree fall. However, the damage may differ slightly from that of sloped roofs:

Membrane Damage – Low-slope roofs typically use a membrane (like TPO, EPDM, or PVC) for waterproofing. A tree impact can puncture or tear the membrane, allowing water to seep into the building.

Pooling Water – Low-slope roofs are more prone to water pooling. If a tree causes a depression or puncture, water may collect, worsening the damage and increasing the leak potential.

Structural Integrity – A large tree may cause a partial or complete collapse of the roof structure, leading to safety concerns for the structure’s occupants and making the roof unsafe for repair crews.

Inspecting Your Home After a Tree Impact

After a tree falls on your home, the first priority is safety. You should evacuate and call emergency services if there is any risk of injury or further damage. Here’s who to contact after the initial incident:

Emergency Services – If the tree has caused structural or physical damage, gas leaks, or electrical hazards, call 911 for immediate assistance.

Tree Removal Services – Contact a licensed tree removal service to safely remove the tree from your roof. Avoid trying to remove it yourself, as the weight and balance of the tree could cause further damage or injury.

Tip: Have the tree removal service tarp the affected area until a roofer can get onsite to evaluate the damage and begin emergency roof repairs or replacement.

Roofer – Hire a licensed roofing contractor to assess and repair the roof. They will check for broken trusses, holes, and water damage that may not be immediately visible.

For a free roof inspection and repair or replacement quote, contact newimageroofingatlanta.com today.

Gas, Water, and Electric Companies – After a tree impact, there is a risk that gas lines, water pipes, or electrical wiring may have been damaged. Contact the respective utility companies to inspect the home and ensure no leaks or fire hazards persist.

General Contractor – Once the roof and utilities are secured, a general contractor can assess any interior damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. They will coordinate necessary repairs to return your home to a livable condition.

Inspection Checklist

Here are areas to thoroughly inspect after a tree falls on your roof:

Water Lines – Check for leaks or ruptures in the plumbing system if the tree has penetrated the roof into the living spaces.

Electrical Lines – Look for exposed wiring, shorts, or electrical fires. If you detect any issues, turn off the electricity at the main breaker and call an electrician.

Tip: If the tree fell through your power lines or the home’s connection, call your electric company to turn off the power until repairs are completed.

Gas Connections – If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate immediately and call the gas company. A fallen tree could dislodge or break gas lines, leading to dangerous leaks.

Structural Integrity – Beyond the roof itself, inspect support beams, walls, and floors for shifting, cracks, or collapse.

Preventing Tree-Related Damage

While a tree falling on your home can seem like an unpredictable event, there are several steps you can take to prevent or minimize the damage:

Regular Tree Maintenance – One of the best ways to prevent a tree from falling on your home is by regularly maintaining the trees on your property. This includes trimming dead or weak branches, removing diseased trees, and ensuring that large trees are healthy and stable.

Plant Trees Away from Structures – When planting trees, place them far away from your home so (if they were to fall) they can’t reach the roof.

Note: Fast-growing trees can reach dangerous heights quickly, so it’s crucial to plan ahead.

Professional Tree Inspections – Hire a local arborist to inspect the trees on your property, especially if they are old or have suffered damage from storms. A professional can identify early signs of decay, disease, or weakness that may lead to a tree falling.

Find or verify an arborist HERE.

Install Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials – Consider upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials. These materials, like metal or asphalt shingles with a Class 4 rating, are designed to withstand heavy impacts and may reduce the severity of damage if a tree falls on your home.

Post-Tree Fall Resources for Property Owners

After the tree is removed and your home is secured, you may need to contact several resources to assist in the recovery process:

Insurance Company – File a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider to cover the costs of repairs and tree removal. Document all damages with photos and maintain receipts for any emergency expenses.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and deductibles.

Property Management – If you rent your home, contact your property manager to coordinate repairs and assessments with contractors.

Power Company – If the tree affected power lines, contact your local utility company to inspect and restore electrical services when it’s safe.

Water Company – If water lines are damaged, the water company can help repair them and ensure no leaks or contamination risks persist.

Gas Company – Ensure that any gas lines or meters affected by the tree impact are inspected and safely restored by your gas provider.

By taking prompt action and working with professionals, you can recover from the damages caused by a fallen tree while preventing further harm to your home.

Tree Roof Damage

In this article, you discovered what happens when a tree falls on your roof, who to call after a tree emergency, preventive measures, and crucial resources for homeowners.

Knowing what to do after a tree falls on your roof allows you to quickly initiate the repair and recovery process, returning your home to normal.

A delayed response to a tree falling on your home can result in severe or irreparable structural damage, potentially life-threatening situations, and costly repairs.

Sources:
ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning
treesaregood.org/treeowner/treehazards
iii.org/article/if-a-tree-falls-on-your-house-are-you-covered

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

September 12, 2024/by Hayley Mace

Your Home and Roof After a Fire – Steps to Recovery

Residential Roofing

Avoid panic and confusion when a fire threatens to destroy your home. Knowing what to do after a home fire will help you secure your home and protect your loved ones.

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information and guidance on surviving and recovering from a catastrophic house fire.

1. Evacuating Your Home

Experiencing a house fire will change your life in several (often traumatic or overwhelming) ways. Knowing the necessary steps required after the fire can help you regain control, ensure safety, and begin the recovery process. Consider the following:

Stay Calm and Follow Your Evacuation Plan

The first priority during a fire is your and your family’s safety. It’s vital to have an established evacuation plan that everyone in the household knows. During a fire:

Alert Everyone: If you detect a fire, immediately alert everyone in the house. Ensure that everyone knows how to get out quickly and safely.
Use the Safest Exit: Use the nearest exit to leave the house. Use a secondary exit or window when your primary exit is blocked by fire or smoke.
Avoid Smoke: If there is smoke, stay low where the air is cleaner, and cover your nose and mouth with a cloth.
Do Not Delay: Do not attempt to collect belongings or pets; focus on getting everyone out safely.
Gather at a Safe Location: Once outside, gather at a pre-designated meeting spot, away from the house, and ensure everyone is accounted for.

Assisting Those with Disabilities or the Elderly

Ensure that elderly or disabled family members are assisted during the evacuation. Assign a family member to help them if necessary and ensure everyone knows how to assist those who need it.

2. Calling Emergency Responders

The faster you engage emergency services, the less damage a fire can inflict on your home. Emergency responders typically arrive within minutes after an emergency call. Immediately do the following:

Contact 911 Immediately

Once everyone is safely outside, call 911 to report the fire. Provide the dispatcher with:

Your home’s address.
The nature and extent of the fire (if known).
Any known hazards, such as gas lines or flammable materials.
Whether anyone is still inside the house.

Tip: When calling emergency services, remain calm and concise (ensure the operator can understand you clearly).

Notify Neighbors

If the fire threatens neighboring homes, notify your neighbors and urge them to evacuate if necessary.

3. Cleanup After the Fire

Fire and smoke damage may appear (and smell) much worse than it is. Here are the steps to get the cleanup started:

Assess the Damage

After the fire is extinguished and authorities have declared it safe to return, assess the damage. This includes:

Smoke Damage: Smoke can cause significant damage to walls, ceilings, and belongings. Smoke residue is acidic and can corrode metals and permanently stain surfaces.
Water Damage: Water used to extinguish the fire can cause its own set of problems, including waterlogged furniture, soaked walls, and potential mold growth.
Structural Damage: Inspect the home for any signs of structural damage, such as weakened walls, floors, or roofing.

Hire a Professional Cleanup Service

Ensure a thorough cleanup and restoration by considering a professional fire damage restoration company. These experts can:

Remove Smoke Residue: Use specialized cleaning agents and equipment to remove smoke stains and odors.
Water Extraction and Drying: Deploy industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry out water-damaged areas and prevent mold.
Debris Removal: Safely remove fire-damaged materials and debris from your home.

Ventilate the Home

Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and help remove lingering smoke odors. This also aids in drying out any moisture from firefighting efforts.

Tip: Air movers (high-powered fans) can be placed near doors and windows to accelerate ventilation.

4. Ensuring Structural Integrity

The intense heat a fire produces can severely damage your home’s support beams (wood, metal, or concrete). Use the following to ensure you are entering a safely supported home.

Structural Inspection

Before making any repairs, it’s crucial to have your home inspected by a structural engineer to ensure it is safe to reoccupy. The engineer will:

Evaluate the Stability: Check the overall stability of the home, including load-bearing walls and support beams.
Inspect for Hidden Damage: Look for hidden damage that could compromise the home’s structural integrity.
Roof Inspection: Pay special attention to the condition of the roof, which may have been damaged by the fire or firefighting efforts.

Roof Safety

A critical part of the post-fire inspection is assessing the roof’s condition. Even if the fire didn’t reach the roof, it might still be compromised by:

Heat Damage: Intense heat can cause roofing materials to warp or weaken.
Water Damage: Water used to fight the fire can seep into the roof structure, leading to potential water damage or mold growth.
Debris: Fire debris could have fallen onto the roof, adding weight and possibly causing damage.

If any issues are found, immediate repair or replacement is necessary to prevent leaks or further damage.

5. Post-Fire Resources

After a fire, several key organizations and service providers should be contacted to help restore your home and begin the recovery process.

Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the fire. They will:

Assign an adjuster to assess the damage.
Guide you through the claims process.
Cover fire, water, and smoke damage according to your policy.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and deductibles.

Property Management (if applicable)

If you rent your home, contact your property management company or landlord. They can:

Coordinate with your insurance and restoration teams.
Provide guidance on your responsibilities versus theirs in terms of repairs and restoration.

Utility Companies

Power Company

Contact your power company to:

Ensure the electricity is safely turned off if it wasn’t already done by emergency responders.
Safely restore power once repairs are complete.

Water Company

Reach out to your water company to:

Address any potential issues with water lines or flooding.
Ensure that water service is safe to resume.

Gas Company

If your home uses natural gas, contact the gas company to:

Ensure that the gas supply is safely shut off.
Conduct an inspection of the gas lines before turning the service back on.

Fire Restoration Services

A professional fire restoration service can handle the entire cleanup and restoration process. These professionals can work with your insurance company and can often provide comprehensive services, including:

Smoke and soot removal.
Water extraction and drying.
Structural repairs.
Roof inspection and repairs.

Local Government or Building Inspector

In some cases, local authorities or a building inspector may need to certify that the home is safe to occupy again. They will:

Conduct a final inspection after repairs are complete.
Issue any necessary permits or certifications for reoccupation.

Mental Health Services

Experiencing a fire can be a traumatic event. If you or your family members are struggling to cope with the aftermath, consider reaching out to mental health professionals for support.

Community Assistance Programs

Many communities have assistance programs for families affected by fires, including temporary housing, food, and clothing. Contact your local Red Cross or community center for help.

Before A House Fire

A crucial preventive measure to keep you and your loved ones safe from a fire in your home is:

Installing Smoke Alarms and CO2 Detectors

Properly working smoke alarms and CO2 detectors decrease your chances of dying in a fire by half.
Place smoke alarms and CO2 detectors on every level of your residence. Place them outside bedrooms on the ceiling or high on the wall (4 to 12 inches from ceiling), at the top of open stairways, or at the bottom of enclosed stairs and near (not in) the kitchen.
Test and clean smoke alarms and CO2 detectors once a month, and if your model uses a 9-volt battery, be sure to replace the battery annually when you change your clocks back to Standard Time in the fall.
Newer alarms with a lithium battery may not need to be changed annually but still require periodic cleaning and testing. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the model you have (if you do not have the physical instructions, they can be found with a simple Google search – type in the device’s make and model number and instructions). Replace smoke alarms and CO2 detectors every 10 years.

Read more about installing and maintaining smoke alarms at fortsmithar.gov/government/departments/fire/citizen-fire-resources/smoke-alarm-safety

Recovering from a House Fire

In this article, you discovered information and detailed guidance on surviving and recovering from a destructive house fire.

Recognizing the structural dangers your home presents after a fire will help you take the necessary steps to make sure your home is safe to occupy and get repairs and cleanup done quickly and efficiently.

Failing to quickly take action after a house fire will leave you with an uninhabitable and severely damaged home requiring extensive and costly repairs.

Sources:
usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf
gema.georgia.gov/house-fires
ready.gov/home-fires

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

September 4, 2024/by Hayley Mace

Tag Archive for: Atlanta Residential Roofer

Hurricane Helene Devastation

Structural Damage Across the Region

Widespread Power Outages

New Image Roofing Atlanta’s Response

The Ongoing Hurricane Season

Recovery Challenges and the Road Ahead

Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts

How Lightning Forms

What Attracts Lightning?

Energy in a Lightning Strike

Potential Damage to a Home’s Structure and Electronics

Who to Call After a Lightning Strike

Preventing and Diverting Lightning Strikes

Lightning and Residential Structures

Immediate Damages to the Roof and Home

Sloped Shingle Roofs

Low-Slope Roofs

Inspecting Your Home After a Tree Impact

Inspection Checklist

Preventing Tree-Related Damage

Post-Tree Fall Resources for Property Owners

Tree Roof Damage

1. Evacuating Your Home

Stay Calm and Follow Your Evacuation Plan

Assisting Those with Disabilities or the Elderly

2. Calling Emergency Responders

Contact 911 Immediately

Notify Neighbors

3. Cleanup After the Fire

Assess the Damage

Hire a Professional Cleanup Service

Ventilate the Home

4. Ensuring Structural Integrity

Structural Inspection

Roof Safety

5. Post-Fire Resources

Insurance Company

Property Management (if applicable)

Utility Companies

Fire Restoration Services

Local Government or Building Inspector

Mental Health Services

Community Assistance Programs

Before A House Fire

Recovering from a House Fire

About Us

Services

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