Why a Property Inspection Should Top Your End-of-Year To-Do List

Start 2025 Off on the Right

The new year is here, and it’s time to leave the past behind, right? That means no more dragging around last year’s baggage—whether it’s the pile of holiday leftovers or, in your case, any lingering property damage you might’ve overlooked. Trust us, there’s no better way to start fresh than by scheduling your property inspection before the new year begins. 

Why Schedule a Property Inspection Before 2025? 

Let’s face it, life’s busy, and it’s easy to postpone minor repairs—especially when the holiday hustle takes over. But here’s the thing: last year’s storm damage could cost you big time if you don’t act quickly. Damage from hail, wind, or general wear and tear doesn’t just sit idle; it gets worse with time, especially when seasonal threats come into play. Freezing temperatures can expand small cracks, ice can worsen leaks, and heavy snow adds stress to already compromised structures.

By scheduling a property inspection before the year ends, you’re not just addressing existing damage—you’re protecting your home or business from the added risks winter brings. A professional inspector can catch issues that might have slipped through the cracks, giving you the chance to fix them before snow and ice turn minor problems into major headaches. Take action now to avoid scrambling in the new year when the damage (and the repair costs) could be far worse.

Spot Damage Early and Save Money

Did you know that small roof leaks can quickly turn into major headaches? Today’s minor crack in your shingles could mean mold, water damage, or structural issues tomorrow. Often, the sooner you discover damage, the less you’ll have to pay for repairs. Plus, if you file your insurance claim in 2024, you may have more options and fewer headaches than if you wait until 2025, when claims pile up. 

The Benefits of a Property Inspection Before the New Year

Don’t Let Last Year’s Damage Hang Around

So why wait? As tempting as it is to “forget” about that missing shingle or roof leaf, leaving those issues unresolved is just bringing last year’s baggage into 2025. Schedule your property inspection today and confidently step into the new year knowing your property is safe and secure.

Ready to start? Contact us to schedule your inspection and prepare 2025 for a fresh start—not old headaches!

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
This field is hidden when viewing the form
This field is hidden when viewing the form

Winter is Coming—Prevent Snow Damage This Season

The first snowfall of the season is magical—until you realize what’s hidden beneath that blanket of white. From roof stress to potential water damage, the aftermath of snowstorms can put your property at risk. As Nebraska property owners, acting fast after the snow clears is essential to prevent costly damage.

Your ultimate post-snow checklist is here! While we designed this for our fellow Nebraskans, the same rules apply to any state with a snowy winter. 

Disclaimer:

Please be advised that any tasks or “action steps” mentioned here should only be undertaken if they can be performed safely. Always prioritize your well-being and follow all relevant safety guidelines. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the task requires specialized expertise, we recommend seeking professional assistance. This article is not intended as legal, medical, or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as such.

1. Prepare Your Roof for Winter: Prevent Snow Damage Before It Starts

Your roof bears the brunt of every storm, so it’s the first place to inspect after snow hits. In Nebraska, heavy snow, ice dams, and trapped moisture can cause severe long-term damage if not addressed. Taking care of your roof at the start of winter can prevent headaches come spring. 

Action Steps:

Pro Tip

Ice dams often signal poor attic insulation. If your attic insulation isn’t up to par, it could lead to future roof damage. Upgrading your insulation now may save you thousands later. If you haven’t already, we recommend inspecting your property to ensure it’s winter-ready!

2. How to Prevent Ice Dams

Snow that melts during the day and refreezes overnight can wreak havoc on our gutters. Blockages may lead to water backing up into your home or pooling around your foundation. 

Action Steps:

To learn more about how to prevent ice dams, read our full blog: Protect Your Property from Ice Dams

 

3. Snow Damage Check

A walk around your property can reveal issues that aren’t always visible inside your property. Snowdrifts + Fallen Branches + Pooling Water = Spells Disaster

Action Steps:

 

4. Avoid Slip-and-Fall Accidents: Ice-Proof Your Walkways

Slip-and-fall accidents aren’t just dangerous—they can leave you liable if someone else gets hurt on your property. Melting snow that refreezes can quickly turn walkways into ice rinks. 

Action Steps:

5. Seal the Gaps: How to Stop Cold Air from Sneaking In

Snow can sneak into small gaps around windows and doors, causing drafts and moisture damage. Remember to keep your doors and windows tight to avoid unnecessary heating costs and potential damage. 

Action Steps:

6. Basement Flooding Prevention

Melted snow can enter your basement through tiny cracks or poor drainage. Even minor leaks can escalate into significant water damage if not addressed.

Action Steps:

7. Be Ready for the Next Storm

Nebraska winters are unpredictable, so preparation is key. After addressing immediate post-snow concerns, take steps to ensure your property is ready for the next storm.

Action Steps:

Winter is here, and it’s time to act! By following this post-snow checklist, you can keep your property safe and prevent snow damage. ready for whatever the season throws your way. 

Need help assessing damage after a storm? Our team at Premier Claims is here to guide you through every step of the process. From property inspections to filing insurance claims, we’ve got your back.

Don’t let snow damage leave you out in the cold—contact Premier Claims today to protect your property this winter!

​​

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
This field is hidden when viewing the form
This field is hidden when viewing the form

Nebraska’s 2024 Storm Damage: Winter Risks to Address Now

How Nebraska’s Record Storms Could Lead to Bigger Problems This Winter

Nebraska has never been a stranger to storms, but 2024 took it to a whole new level. From relentless tornadoes to massive hailstorms, the state has endured a barrage of extreme weather events that have left many properties vulnerable to hidden damage. And as we transition into winter, many of these issues could go from bad to worse if left unaddressed.

For many, it’s not just about broken windows or missing shingles—it’s about the damage that often goes unnoticed. If you have a property in an area impacted by any of Nebraska’s severe weather this year, here’s what you need to know as winter approaches.

A Record-Breaking Year for Nebraska Storm Damage

2024 will be remembered for the intensity and frequency of its storms. According to the National Weather Service, Nebraska saw over 50 major weather events, including multiple EF2 and EF3 tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds exceeding 100 mph. These storms ravaged communities, damaged homes, and uprooted lives. For many, the recovery is still ongoing.

 

But here’s where it gets tricky: not all storm damage is immediately visible. In fact, some of the most significant damage is hidden from view, waiting for the winter freeze to reveal its full impact. The relentless nature of these storms has left many properties in a fragile state, and with winter’s harsh conditions around the corner, those vulnerabilities could lead to significant problems.

The Hidden Threats Lurking in Your Property

Many Nebraska property owners have focused on the apparent storm damage—broken windows, torn siding, or damaged roofs—but it’s the hidden and unresolved issues that could wreak havoc this winter. Let’s look at the potential dangers that could be hiding beneath the surface:

Reach out today to have your property inspected by our team! Our goal is to inform you of any damage to your property so that you can make any necessary repairs before the winter season. Our inspection team will take photos of your property in its current condition. Whether there’s damage or not, having updated photos of your property can come in handy in case you file an insurance claim later down the line.

Winter is Coming—Are You Ready for It?

This might feel overwhelming for families already dealing with the aftermath of 2024’s storms. The emotional and financial toll of repairing storm damage can be significant, but it is important to act before winter exacerbates the situation. 

Our Community, Our Strength

If you were heavily impacted by Nebraska’s storms this year, it’s understandable to feel stretched thin financially and emotionally. But taking steps now can prevent even greater stress down the line. Winter can be unforgiving, and the last thing any family needs is to discover damage that could have been prevented.

Reach out to our team today to have your property inspected to ensure your property is ready to face the coming winter. Addressing potential issues now can provide peace of mind in the months ahead.

Hurricane Post-Recovery

The post-recovery after a hurricane can be a challenging and stressful experience. Understanding damage assessment, contacts, and expectations post-hurricane as a local resident can ease recovery burdens significantly. 

Assessing Hurricane Damage & Mitigation

Prior to the storm, we recommend following a detailed checklist, having your property inspected, and accurately documenting the current condition of the property.

For more information, read the following blogs:

After the storm has passed, your responsibility as a policyholder will be to assess the damages to your property and mitigate further damage. We recommend inspecting the exterior of your property looking for any broken or loose materials. In addition, inspect the interior of your property for water leakage or pooling water. Early connection, detailed documentation of damage, and mitigation strategies are vital for your insurance claim process.

Important Contacts After the Hurricane

In regards to property damage after a hurricane, there is a significant need for mitigation professionals, inspectors, and contractors in the community. Insurance carriers will also experience an increase in call volume and claims coming in from the community. Prior to the storm, we advise having a list of important contact information including your insurance carrier, mitigation companies, contractors, government authorities, medical assistance during a disaster,  and your local Red Cross

Our team is readily available during a hurricane. In the aftermath of the storm, we take over the communication, scheduling, and coordination with your insurance carrier, inspectors, mitigation companies, and contractors. We take the burden of handling the devastating damage from the hurricane so you can have a full focus on your family, health & safety following the storm. 

What to Expect as a Resident

As a resident, you can expect the recovery process to take time. The immediate aftermath of a hurricane can be chaotic and challenging, often requiring a great deal of patience and persistence. Communities will come together to overcome the struggles of power outages, limited access to food and water, as well as the extensive damage to homes, businesses, and natural resources. 

Keep informed about the latest updates and instructions from location authorities to help you navigate the recovery process. The days and weeks following a hurricane may result in delays of power recovery and availability of essential services. It’s important to be prepared to live without essential services for a period of time, and to come together as a community to support one another as you navigate the recovery from the hurricane’s impact.

 

Does My Property Have Storm Damage?

Don’t Underestimate the Storm: Why Your Property Needs a Damage Assessment

The “It Wasn’t That Bad” Trap

It’s a common reaction: “The storm wasn’t that bad; I don’t think I’ll have much damage.” Many property owners, after experiencing what seems like a minor storm, tend to dismiss the need for a damage assessment. However, this mindset can lead to more significant issues down the line. Ignoring potential damage can turn minor problems into costly repairs. Here’s why you should always consider a professional damage assessment, even if the storm didn’t seem severe. 

The Hidden Dangers of “Minor” Storms

Not all storm damage is immediately visible. While your property might look unscathed, hidden damage can lurk beneath the surface. Small leaks can develop into significant water damage, minor cracks can expand, and what seems like a tiny dent can compromise the structural integrity of your roof. 

Water Damage: The Silent Destroyer

Water damage is one of the most insidious issues that can stem from a storm. A tiny leak might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can lead to mold growth, rot, and severe structural damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage claims are among the most common and costly types of property owner insurance claims. 

Structural Compromise

Even a seemingly insignificant storm can weaken your property’s structural integrity. Minor damage to your roof, windows, or foundation can worsen over time, especially with repeated exposure to the elements. It’s essential to address these issues early to prevent more severe damage and higher repair costs. 

The Importance of a Professional Damage Assessment

A professional public adjuster has the expertise to identify a multitude of types of damage, potentially even hidden damage. A public adjuster can obtain a comprehensive assessment of your property’s condition, thereby helping you file a more accurate and timely insurance claim. This proactive approach can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. To learn more about what happens during a damage assessment, watch our full video: What is a Damage Assessment?

Expertise and Experience: Why DIY Isn’t Enough

While it may be tempting to assess the damage yourself, even the most vigilant property owners can overlook critical issues. Public adjusters and professional inspectors bring years of experience to the table, spotting damage that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. They know what to look for, from the most minor signs of water intrusion to subtle structural shifts that could indicate a larger problem. 

Move Forward with Confidence

Opting for a professional damage assessment after any storm, no matter how minor it seems, provides peace of mind. You’ll have a better understanding of your property’s condition, and if there is damage, you’ll be able to address it promptly before it escalates. This proactive step can also simplify the insurance claim process, helping to ensure that you receive the coverage you’re entitled to without any surprises down the line.

The Cost of Complacency

Skipping a damage assessment might save you time and money in the short term, but the long-term costs can be significant. By the time damage becomes apparent, repairs are likely to be much more expensive. Additionally, delayed claims can lead to disputes with your insurance carrier, potentially reducing the payout or extending the claims process. 

Don’t Gamble with Your Property

In the aftermath of a storm, your property’s well-being isn’t something to gamble with. The risks of hidden damage far outweigh the perceived inconvenience or cost of a professional assessment. Protect your investment, and make sure that even the “minor” storms don’t lead to major headaches. 

Schedule Your Damage Assessment Today

Don’t wait for the damage to become a significant problem— or for it to be too late. Schedule a professional damage assessment today and ensure your property is in the clear. Whether it’s a minor storm or a major one, your property deserves the best care possible. 

Why Pre-Hail Season Inspections Are Vital: Protect Your Property

As hail season approaches, property owners face a critical decision: should they proactively inspect their property for potential damage, or wait until after a hailstorm wreaks havoc? Learn why scheduling pre-hail season inspections is not just advisable, but imperative. From protecting your investment to getting timely repairs, the benefits of early detection are endless. 

Why Pre-Hail Season Inspections Matter

Proactive Protection Against Future Damage

By conducting a thorough inspection before hail season commences, property owners can identify and address pre-existing damage. This proactive approach not only mitigates the risk of existing issues but also fortifies the property against future damage. 

Gaining a comprehensive inspection report from a professional provides property owners with a clear understanding of their property’s condition, empowering them to make informed decisions regarding repairs and maintenance. This invaluable resource serves as a roadmap for safeguarding their investment and ensuring long-term resilience. 

Insurance Coverage and Claims Success

Insurance policies often stipulate that claims must be filed within a specified timeframe following a weather event. By documenting pre-existing damage through a professional inspection, property owners set themselves up for success in the event of future damage. To learn more about the importance of early detection, read our blog: When Should I File a Claim?

Understanding the Impact of Hail Damage

Hail damage isn’t always immediately apparent to the untrained eye. While large hailstones may cause obvious dents and fractures, smaller impacts can go unnoticed, gradually compromising the integrity of your property over time. Learn more in our blog: The Impact of Hail: Understanding Size, Formation, and Damage

The Ripple Effect on Property Value

Undetected hail damage can significantly diminish the value of your property. Left unaddressed, minor issues can escalate into major structural concerns, leading to costly repairs and depreciation. 

Leveraging the Knowledge of Professionals

Professional inspectors, like those at Premier Claims, possess the knowledge and tools necessary to detect even the most subtle signs of hail damage. From roofing to siding, their thorough examination can uncover hidden vulnerabilities that may otherwise go unnoticed. 

The Long-Term Impact of Neglecting Pre-Hail Season Inspections

Structural Compromise and Safety Hazards

Failure to address pre-existing damage can compromise the structural integrity of your property, posing safety hazards to you and your visitors. From weakened roofing materials to compromised support structures, the consequences of neglecting inspections can be severe. 

Escalating Repair Costs

Delaying property inspections can lead to minor issues snowballing into major repair projects. As damage accumulates over time, the cost of repairs can skyrocket, placing an unnecessary financial burden on property owners. Additionally, insurance premiums may increase if damage is left unaddressed, further exacerbating the financial strain. 

Opting for pre-hail season inspections isn’t merely a precautionary measure; it’s a proactive investment in preserving the longevity and value of your property. By detecting and addressing pre-existing damage early on, property owners can fortify their property against the destructive forces of nature and enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that they’re prepared for whatever the weather may bring. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late. For more information about property inspections and our claims management services, we invite you to connect with our team today to schedule your pre-hail season inspection. 

What is a Damage Assessment?

Protect your property like a pro!

Hear from our Inspections Manager and Adjusting Manager as they break down the essential steps and purpose of a damage assessment. Discover hidden signs of damage, and important safety measures, and gain the knowledge you need to navigate your claims process with confidence. Don’t leave your property vulnerable- watch now to learn from experts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

To learn more about damage assessments, check out the following blog:

Let’s Talk Damage Assessments

 

 

 

 

 

Strategic Commercial Property Investments

As the new year unfolds, you may find yourself eager to expand your commercial property investments. Amidst the excitement, it’s important to make strategic and well-informed decisions. Conducting a thorough property inspection before any purchases are made is in your best interest. Regardless of the type of property you’re looking to purchase in 2024, enlisting a public adjuster before finalizing a property purchase is a crucial step. 

Hidden Risks

Whether it’s a storefront or a commercial building, properties often conceal potential risks beneath their exterior allure. Public adjusters bring a trained eye to the inspection process, uncovering hidden damages, structural concerns, or outdated systems. This applies equally to commercial and residential properties, ensuring that buyers understand the true condition of their potential investments. 

Cost Evaluation and Budget Planning

Public adjusters excel at assessing damages and estimating repair or replacement costs accurately. This information is invaluable for commercial property owners, aiding in budget planning and determining the overall feasibility of the investment. Understanding the full financial picture is key to making well-informed decisions. Therefore, allowing you to make smart financial purchases in 2024!

Negotiation Leverage

Armed with detailed property inspection reports, both commercial investors gain powerful negotiation tools. Whether negotiating for a fairer deal or requesting necessary repairs, having the support of a public adjuster aims for buyers to enter transactions with confidence, knowing the property meets their standards. 

Insurance Insights

Understanding insurability is crucial for all property buyers. Public adjusters not only identify potential risks but also offer insights into the property’s insurance history and the likely cost of coverage. This knowledge can be pivotal for comprehensive risk management, providing peace of mind for potential buyers. 

Protect the Future of Your Investment

Public adjusters focus not just on immediate concerns but also on the long-term sustainability of the property. This approach benefits commercial property investments by addressing potential issues upfront, aiming for a sound purchase that stands the test of time.

Start 2024 off with a bang! Making commercial property investments at the beginning of the year is a strategic move. Enlisting a public adjuster for a comprehensive property inspection is a great way for you to make sure you’re making the right investment. Uncovering risks, negotiating, and understanding insurance insights, we want you to secure properties aligning with your vision. Connect today for informed real estate decisions. Before you sign any agreements, let Premier Claims be your partner in securing a property that aligns with your vision for the year ahead. Connect with us today to explore the true potential of your real estate investment.

Review Policy & Inspect Property Before a Hurricane

To protect yourself in the event of a future hurricane, one of the most important ways you can prepare is by reviewing your policy coverage. For Hurricane Preparedness Week, we will outline a few of the key aspects to consider in your policy: deductible, building coverage, and the importance of inspecting your property with photo documentation.

Deductible

Hurricane coverage deductibles are either be a fixed dollar amount or a percentage of the insured value. Percentage deductibles are more common as they will not increase premiums as much as a fixed dollar amount deductible. However, if you’re located in a hurricane prone area, it is crucial to know what type of deductible is in your policy and the financial responsibility you would have if a hurricane damaged your property. 

For instance, say you have $400,000 in coverage to your building and your policy has a 2% deductible. After a hurricane, your insurance claim is settled at $50,000 for property damage, but you receive a check for $42,000 — You’re responsible for paying the percentage deductible of $8,000 out-of-pocket to restore your building. 

Reviewing Policy (1)

Building Coverage

Building coverage is an essential part of any policyholder’s insurance policy. It provides protection for the structure of your home, including the roof, walls, foundation, and other structures such as a garage or shed. In the event of a hurricane, this coverage will help you repair or rebuild your home if it is damaged.

The amount of building coverage you need will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of your home, the materials it is made of, and the cost of construction in your area. As a general rule, you should have enough coverage to rebuild your home from the ground up if it is completely destroyed. An Actual Cash Value policy pays what your property is worth today, whereas a Replacement Cost Value policy will pay the cost to repair or replace your property without deducting for depreciation. To learn more, visit our blog “What is Recoverable Depreciation?” 

Flood Damage Insurance

Another factor to consider when purchasing building coverage is whether your policy includes coverage for flood damage. Flooding is a common occurrence during hurricanes, and it can cause significant damage to your home. If you live in a flood-prone area, you may want to consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy to ensure that you are fully protected.

Coverage Limits and Exclusions

When purchasing building coverage, it’s important to read your policy carefully and understand the coverage limits, and exclusions. For instance, a roof exclusion could specify that the insurance carrier will not pay for damages to the roof as a result of wind or other events, such as a hurricane. A cosmetic exclusion could put you at risk of having to justify the necessity for repairs or replacement if the insurance carrier classifies the damage as cosmetic. 

Policy Requirements

You should also be aware of any requirements your insurance company may have for hurricane preparations, such as installing storm shutters or reinforcing your roof. Failure to do any hurricane preparations can put you at risk for a denied or underpaid claim. Read more in yesterday’s blog, “Prepare before the storm” 

Property Current Condition

One of the most important steps that is often overlooked by policyholders is to get their property inspected and take pictures before a hurricane hits. Doing so can provide solid evidence of the condition of their property before the hurricane and make it easier to assess the damage caused by the hurricane.

Here are a few reasons why it is essential to get your property inspected and take pictures before a hurricane:

The Good News

Our team provides free policy reviews and property inspections. If you have concerns over your current insurance policy, our team of legal experts will complete a thorough review and outline potential gaps in coverage or risks. Our inspection & adjusting team will gather the necessary documentation and pictures required prior to any hurricane damage. In addition, we will continue to monitor your property, and in the event you experience severe damage, we begin the claim process on your behalf immediately to get you paid faster. Contact us today to get your free policy review and inspection!