Recent Storm a Reminder for Homeowners

Recent reports of heavy rain brought on by a late-season tropical storm should serve as a reminder to homeowners that sudden repairs can become necessary any time of the year.

The remnants of Tropical Storm Ida have been working their way up the East Coast at a very late point in this year's hurricane season. Typically, such storms tend to run their course along the Atlantic coast by late October.

An Associated Press report noted that as of Friday morning, the area around Cape May, New Jersey was experiencing heavy rain and a small amount of flooding, as well as beach erosion. The report also noted that about 155,000 of the region's utility customers remained without electricity as of early Friday.

Typically, flooding caused by hurricanes is not covered under standard policies. However, there are many other potential types of damage a major storm can cause, from broken windows to damage from fallen trees and branches.

People who do suffer modest property damage during a storm are often advised to photograph the damage and to make minor repairs, such as covering windows and roof leaks, to avoid the need to file a larger homeowners insurance claim.