Louisiana homeowners often face extensive property damage after hurricanes, even if their areas don’t suffer direct hits.
Storm recovery often depends on how quickly and accurately the damage is identified.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of hurricane damage after a major storm passes through the Gulf Coast.
Wind Damage
A key feature of hurricanes is the intense wind that can tear apart roof material, shatter windows, and topple trees.
Debris that gets sent flying can strike homes, destroy siding, and damage vehicles. Shingles and roof tiles can get caught by high gusts, lift off easily, and leave gaps that let in rain and humidity.
Fences, outdoor structures, and power lines can also get hit hard, possibly creating unsafe conditions nearby.
Even the most well-maintained homes can lose parts of their exteriors or have their gutters ripped off. Once wind weakens a building’s exterior, the next threat — water intrusion — can set in quickly and cause deeper problems inside.
Water Damage
Once a hurricane’s heavy rain and storm surge hit Louisiana, water can seep into every vulnerable point.
Floodwaters can enter through broken windows, roof openings, and doorways. The deluge can soak floors, walls, and insulation so thoroughly that mold and decay can appear within days. Flooded electrical systems, appliances, and furniture can become unsafe or unusable.
If saltwater from coastal surges mixes in, it can corrode metal and wiring throughout a home. Standing water can attract insects and leave behind sewage or chemicals that require professional cleanup.
Prompt restoration is essential to prevent flood damage from compromising a property’s structural integrity and to keep it safe and sanitary.
Structural Damage
A hurricane can literally shake a home from its foundation up.
The combination of immense wind pressure and severe flooding can weaken house frames, support beams, and load-bearing walls. Roof trusses can split or shift, increasing the risk of collapse.
Even concrete slabs can crack if floodwaters wash away the soil underneath. Brick and stucco exteriors can crumble if moisture seeps deep into them, too.
Over time, small cracks can expand, allowing water damage to spread. Many hurricane victims only discover hidden issues months later when doors begin sticking, floors start to warp, and ceilings sag. All of these are signs of a structure that moved or shifted during the storm.
Other Types of Hurricane Damage
Hurricanes can cause more than direct wind and water damage.
Storm-related power outages can ruin food and electronics. Downed trees can easily crush fences, sheds, and vehicles. Broken gas lines or electrical shorts can spark fires after the storm passes.
Sewer backups can contaminate plumbing systems and home interiors. Damaged outdoor equipment, such as air conditioning units and irrigation systems, may require full replacement.
Each of these types of damage adds to repair costs and complicates insurance claims, which is why detailed documentation and prompt action are critical after a hurricane.
Need Help With a Hurricane Damage Claim? Contact Our Attorneys Today
Insurance companies rarely make the recovery process easy after a hurricane.
The Louisiana hurricane damage attorneys at Insurance Claim HQ help homeowners protect their rights and recover what their insurance policies promise.
If your property sustained damage in a recent storm and your insurance agent is making it difficult to receive fair compensation, talk to our experienced attorneys about your options before you accept an offer or sign anything.
Contact us today for a free consultation about your hurricane damage case and the claims process.
