What to Do When a Storm Damages Your Fence

Storm season can be a difficult time for homeowners, especially when it comes to the physical damages that can occur to your property. After a storm with high winds or severe flooding it is not uncommon for your fence to be damaged.

If a storm does damage your fence, it can be an overwhelming task to figure out what kind of repairs or replacements are necessary for your property.  

In this article, we'll provide s step-by-step for you to follow when replacing a damaged fence.

Evaluate the extent of the storm damage

If a storm knocks down your fence, the first thing you should do is assess the damage and make sure that it is safe to approach. If the fence is blocking a roadway or walkway, if you see downed power lines nearby, or if the fence is unstable and could collapse further, it may be best to stay away from it and contact the authorities or a professional fencing company to deal with the issue.

If the fence is stable and not blocking any pathways, you can take steps to secure it or repair it yourself, depending on your level of experience and comfort. Here are some steps you might take:

1. If the fence is blocking a roadway or walkway, use caution tape, cones, or other markers to cordon off the area and make it clear that the fence is unsafe and should not be approached.
2. If the fence is stable, use temporary supports or braces to hold it in place until you can make permanent repairs. This will help prevent further damage or collapse.
3. Make sure to contact the local call before you dig agency to avoid costly and potentially dangerous water or natural gas lines!
   

Evaluating the extent of damage on a fence is essential to determine what repairs are necessary. You should inspect entire fence for any signs of wear and tear. Look for dents, broken railings or panels, and anything else that appears out of place. Take note of any damage that could have been caused by the recent storm.

Additionally, assess the stability of the posts and anchors by testing to see if they can be moved easily with your hands; if so, then further inspection will be required to repair them properly.

Contact your insurance company

When it comes to home repairs after a storm, always contact your insurance company before installation. Homeowners' insurance policies may cover damages caused by storms, such as the need for a new fence. By contacting an insurance provider to verify coverage of these repair costs, you can gain the peace of mind that part or all of your project will be covered.

Before contacting an insurance provider regarding storm-related damage claims, gather information about your repair needs and any relevant documentation from before or after the storm. This could include photos of the damage as well as quotes for repair or replacement services from reliable contractors. Home Insurance companies have different deductibles and premiums for coverage on fences, and speaking with an agent can help you determine what kind of coverage you currently have.

Remove the storm-damaged fence

After assessing the amount of damage from the storm; if there are only minor repairs needed, then you may be able to patch or replace any broken or missing parts of the fence without having to remove the rest of the fence. However, if your fence has suffered major damage, then you will need to proceed with removing it. You can learn more about when to repair vs. replace your fence here.

Only those who are comfortable with construction work and have the necessary tools should attempt a DIY fence removal. You will need, at minimum a drill, hammer, pliers, and pry bars ready before beginning any demolition work. Begin by removing any screws or nails holding the fencing together and then gently remove each panel from its post until everything has been taken down. Also, remove tree limbs or similar debris caused by the storm.

It's recommended that you use extreme caution if attempting yourself to avoid injury. When in doubt, call the professionals.

Install the new fence

While you can DIY a new fence, it's almost always better to use licensed fence contractors. Professional fence contractors will have the proper tools and expertise to build a beautiful and long-lasting fence.

It's wise to obtain a few different quotes for your new fence. The cost to construct a new fence can differ depending on many factors, but some of the biggest include type of fence and fence material, fence specifications, property terrain, and any obstructions that could affect fence installation. You can read more about how to select the right contractor on this blog.

Installing a new fence also means you can select the right material and style to fit your needs. Read more about how to choose the right fence here.

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