When a severe storm tears through the Augusta area, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between assessing the damage, protecting your family, and figuring out your next steps, it’s hard to know where to start.
As a general contractor that’s been handling insurance restoration in Augusta and the CSRA since 1947, MRC Construction has helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the storm damage restoration process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you protect your home and your claim.
Step 1: Ensure Everyone’s Safety
Before anything else, make sure your family is safe. If the storm caused structural damage — a collapsed roof section, exposed wiring, or gas leaks — do not re-enter the home until it’s been cleared by emergency services. If you smell gas, leave immediately and call 911.
Once it’s safe:
- Turn off water at the main valve if pipes are broken
- Shut off electricity at the breaker if there’s standing water or exposed wiring
- Avoid walking under damaged ceilings or near leaning walls
Step 2: Document Everything Before Cleanup
This is critical for your insurance claim. Before you move debris, clean up water, or make any repairs:
- Take photos and video of all damage — exterior and interior, every room, every angle
- Document personal property damage — damaged furniture, appliances, clothing
- Save damaged materials — don’t throw away roofing, siding, or flooring until the adjuster has seen it
- Note the date and time of the storm and when you discovered the damage
The more documentation you have, the smoother your claims process will be.
Step 3: Prevent Further Damage
Georgia law requires homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after a loss. This is called mitigation, and your insurance policy covers these costs.
Immediate mitigation steps:
- Tarp exposed roofs to prevent water intrusion
- Board up broken windows and damaged openings
- Extract standing water to prevent mold growth
- Move undamaged belongings away from affected areas
Keep receipts for all emergency supplies and services — tarps, plywood, pumps, fans. These are reimbursable expenses.
If you’re in the Augusta area, MRC Construction offers emergency tarping and board-up services. Contact us and we can be on-site quickly.
Step 4: File Your Insurance Claim
Call your insurance company as soon as possible — most policies require prompt reporting of damage. When you call:
- Provide your policy number
- Describe the damage in general terms (don’t commit to a final scope yet)
- Ask about your deductible and any time limits for filing
- Request a claim number and the name of your assigned adjuster
- Ask about Additional Living Expenses (ALE) if your home is uninhabitable
Pro tip: Don’t sign any contracts with restoration companies that show up unsolicited after storms. Door-to-door “storm chasers” often do substandard work and can complicate your claim. Work with an established local contractor like MRC Construction who has a long-standing reputation in the CSRA.
Step 5: Get a Professional Damage Assessment
Before the insurance adjuster arrives, it’s wise to get an independent assessment from a licensed contractor. This gives you a baseline understanding of the full scope of damage — including issues that aren’t immediately visible, like water damage behind walls or compromised roof decking.
MRC Construction provides free damage assessments for storm-affected homes across the Augusta metro, including Martinez, Evans, Hephzibah, and North Augusta.
Step 6: Work With Your Adjuster
When the insurance adjuster visits your property:
- Walk through the damage with them, pointing out everything you’ve documented
- Share your contractor’s assessment
- Ask questions about anything you don’t understand in their scope
- Don’t accept the first estimate if you believe it’s incomplete — you have the right to negotiate or request a re-inspection
A good restoration contractor will communicate directly with your adjuster to ensure the full scope of damage is covered. At MRC Construction, we handle this coordination as part of our standard insurance restoration process.
Step 7: Begin Restoration
Once your claim is approved, restoration work can begin. A full storm damage restoration typically includes:
- Structural repair — roof replacement, framing, load-bearing walls
- Exterior restoration — siding, gutters, windows, trim, paint
- Water damage remediation — drying, mold treatment, insulation replacement
- Interior finishing — drywall, flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, paint
The timeline depends on the scope of damage. Minor storm repairs may take a few weeks. Major structural restoration can take 2–4 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a storm damage claim in Georgia?
Most Georgia homeowner policies require you to report damage promptly — typically within 30-60 days. However, you should file as soon as possible. Delays can complicate your claim.
Will my insurance rates go up if I file a storm damage claim?
Not necessarily. Georgia law prohibits insurers from raising rates solely because of a weather-related claim. However, multiple claims within a short period can affect your premiums.
What if my insurance company’s estimate is too low?
You have the right to get your own contractor’s estimate and negotiate. If there’s a significant gap, you can request a re-inspection or invoke your policy’s appraisal clause. MRC Construction regularly helps homeowners document the full scope of damage.
Does MRC Construction handle the full restoration or just the roof?
We handle everything — from emergency tarping through complete interior finishing. As a full-service general contractor, we manage roofing, structural, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, and painting under one contract.
Need Help After Storm Damage?
If your Augusta-area home has been damaged by a storm, don’t wait. Contact MRC Construction for a free damage assessment. We’ve been restoring CSRA homes since 1947 — and we work directly with your insurance company to make recovery as smooth as possible.
Call (706) 592-1947 or request your free assessment today.