Severe weather in Minnesota can leave homes with visible and hidden damage. It’s a stressful time for homeowners. Many make mistakes that can lead to higher costs, insurance delays, and long-term issues. Whether skipping a professional inspection or hiring the wrong contractor, these errors can turn a fixable issue into a financial setback.
Let’s go over the seven biggest mistakes Minnesota homeowners make after bad weather and how to avoid them with the right support and strategy. Just got through a storm? This is the next thing you should absolutely avoid doing!
1. If everything “looks fine,” then there must not be any damage.
Your roof, siding, or windows may look fine, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t damaged. People typically don’t notice small cracks, loose shingles, or damaged window seals until they cause leaks or other structural problems later.
What to do instead: Even in cases when there isn’t any visible damage, always arrange for a professional storm damage inspection. Over time, flaws that aren’t obvious can cause mold, energy loss, or a roof that falls apart.
2. Waiting Too Long to Ask for Help
If you wait too long, the damage could get worse, and you might even lose your chance of getting full insurance coverage. Many policies have time limits for filing claims after a storm.
What to do instead: Call a reliable contractor immediately after the storm. The sooner your inspection is documented, the more solid your insurance claim will be.
3. Not Documenting the Damage Properly
Without clear evidence, insurance adjusters may downplay your claim. Relying on memory or general descriptions just isn’t enough.
What to do instead: Take detailed photos and videos of the affected areas. Document dates, weather conditions, and any visible damage. A contractor like Advantage Construction can help you compile a full damage report that includes everything insurance needs to see.
4. Trusting the Wrong Contractor
Hiring an out-of-state storm chaser or an unqualified contractor is one of homeowners’ most expensive mistakes. These contractors often disappear after the job is done, leaving work unfinished or non-compliant with local codes.
What to do instead: Choose a licensed, insured, local contractor with proven storm restoration experience. Advantage Construction is trusted across Minnesota for exterior repairs, storm restoration, and full rebuilds backed by manufacturer certifications and industry warranties.
5. Not Taking Part in the Insurance Process
Too many times, people trust their insurance company and hope for the best. If you don’t get involved, you might miss out on chances and not get paid for claims.
What to do instead: Continue to be actively involved. Walk around the property with your contractor and adjuster. Ask questions. Check the claim’s scope before you sign anything. Contractors like Advantage Construction look out for your best interests and ensure that no damage is missed so that you can get the most out of your insurance.
6. Not Considering Long-Term Improvements
Some homeowners only repair the parts that can be seen to be broken. Not updating or protecting the rest of the exterior can mean missing opportunities to make the home more energy efficient, weatherproof, or attractive from the street.
What to do instead: Consider upgrading to more durable sheathing, energy-efficient windows, or impact-resistant shingles during storm damage repairs. We guide homeowners in transforming temporary setbacks into wise investments for the future.
7. Forgetting to Ask About Warranties
It’s a common mistake for homeowners to think that all guarantees cover the same kinds of repairs.
What to do instead: Ask your contractor about manufacturer guarantees and warranties. Because we are an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred company, Advantage Construction can give longer warranties. These warranties cover roofing systems that can last up to 50 years.
What to Expect from a Reliable Storm Restoration Contractor
One of the most important things you’ll do after a storm is hire the right contractor. An experienced team does more than fix damage. They help you stay away from many of the above mistakes. Here are the things you should look for:
1. Proven Local Experience
A contractor who shows up after a storm and leaves when the job is done is not someone who has been in your neighborhood for years. Being local involves being aware of Minnesota’s building regulations, climate-related issues, and insurance requirements.
2. Full-Service Storm Damage Support
The best contractors do everything for you, from emergency roof replacement to dealing with your insurance company directly. Your family and home are the only things you have to worry about while Advantage Construction takes care of everything.
3. Manufacturer Certifications
Certifications like Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor are rare and valuable. They show that your contractor meets strict standards and can offer top-tier warranties not available from other companies.
4. Communication You Can Trust
Transparency matters. A reputable contractor will keep you updated at every step, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions, never rushing or pressuring you into unnecessary work.
Key Takeaways: Don’t Let Storm Damage Turn into a Bigger Problem
Did your home go through a major storm? What you do next is really important. Many homeowners make simple mistakes that can result in significant issues with long-term costs, insurance, and repairs. Here are a few key points to keep in mind to help you get through the process with confidence:
- Have a professional inspect the property, even if the damage is not immediately apparent.
- Take photos, videos, and written notes of everything right away.
- Avoid contractors from out of state or whom you can’t verify.
- Stay involved throughout the insurance process.
- Don’t pass up the chance to improve the style or materials.
- Take advantage of the chance to improve the design or the materials.
- Verify certifications and warranties.
- Hire local professionals you can trust, like Advantage Construction.
Recover Faster with Advantage Construction
Mistakes after a storm can cost thousands, but they don’t have to. At Advantage Construction, we help Minnesota homeowners make smart, informed decisions after severe weather strikes. From inspections to insurance support and high-quality repairs, our team ensures you’re covered from start to finish.
Contact Advantage Construction today to schedule a free storm damage inspection and get expert help avoiding these common homeowner mistakes. We’re here to protect your home and your peace of mind.
