How Your Property Management Company Can Support Your Community After a Major Storm

Communities are often left reeling in the aftermath of hurricanes, as seen in places like Texas and Florida. Despite the best preparations, the impact of these storms can linger for years, especially in coastal areas.

Immediately following such a weather event, the primary focus should be on ensuring the safety of all community members. Once safety is assured, the next step is assessing damage, initiating cleanup, and starting repairs and reconstruction. While these tasks can seem daunting, partnering with a skilled property management company can make a significant difference. Their expertise can guide the recovery process effectively through:

- Communication

- Damage assessment

- Project management

- Vendor management

- Insurance claim filing

- Emergency financing

Let’s delve into the ways a property management company can assist your community after a major storm.

Communicate with residents

The post-storm period can cause chaos, especially if evacuations were necessary. An established resident alert system is vital. It enables the management team to send out mass emails, texts, or calls with crucial updates and warnings. This system remains invaluable after the storm, helping ensure messages get through even if some communication channels are disrupted. In the absence of electricity or electronic communication, physical notices should be placed throughout the community.

Residents need timely information concerning:

- Essential warnings, like the necessity to boil water or if certain amenities like elevators are out of service

- Regular progress updates on cleanup, repairs, and rebuilding initiatives

- Useful resources such as contacts for waste management and operational locations for gas stations and grocery stores

Once utilities like electricity and internet are restored, digital communications can facilitate rapid dissemination of urgent information.

A property management company with a robust 24/7 customer service center can assist in resolving unforeseen issues or emergencies efficiently.

An exceptional management company will consistently update the board on the progress of repairs and any significant community updates, ensuring everyone is informed and coordinate relief efforts effectively.

Make it a team effort

Centralizing post-storm recovery efforts reduces redundant work and inefficiencies, helping the community recover more swiftly. Establish a command center with tools that promote collaboration between management teams and boards.

Rebuilding efforts can involve contributions not only from management teams but also from unaffected communities wishing to assist. These communities can organize drives for blood donations or collect essentials like blankets for those in need.

Connect you with trusted vendors

Before initiating any repair work, review the property’s governing documents to understand the legal requirements for contracting remediation and insurance fund allocation. Consulting with an association attorney and the management team ensures adherence to necessary processes.

Once you have clarity on these matters, focus on immediate tasks like clearing roads, removing debris and water, and addressing urgent hazards. Taking swift action can limit the extent of damage and is often required by insurance policies. A proficient management company will have established relationships with certified contractors to manage these tasks swiftly and effectively. They should collaborate with maintenance teams to assess damages, obtain estimates, and oversee the repair work.

Strong vendor relationships can expedite restoration work, as prioritized service ensures essential tasks like mold remediation and water removal are handled promptly.

Assist with insurance and financial matters

Navigating insurance processes is a critical component of recovery, often posing a challenge to board members. A property management company can oversee this process, from making initial notifications to liaising with claims adjustors, helping secure a favorable settlement in a timely manner. It’s crucial to note that post-disaster, adjustors are likely overwhelmed with work.

Access to short-term emergency financing may also facilitate swift remediation and repairs, allowing work to commence while awaiting insurance settlements.

Weathering a major storm is never easy, but with a supportive property management company, the journey becomes more manageable. They play a key role in communicating with residents, coordinating damage assessment and repairs, connecting with reliable vendors, and navigating the complex insurance landscape, ultimately demonstrating a deep commitment to the community’s well-being.