As for our care of Ryan, yesterday’s storm was uneventful. Except for the lights flickering two or three times, the power stayed on. That’s not to say we didn’t have issues. The roof began leaking and I had to go up into the attic to slow it as best I could. I also determined it’s an exterior problem so there was no way to fix it from within. To deal with the rain making its way in, I punched a hole in the upstairs’ ceiling (so it wouldn’t puddle in the rafters) and put a huge tub under the leak. There was nothing left to do but call my insurance and file my first-ever homeowner claim.
A cedar tree on the same corner of the property as Ryan’s room. It was already bent from a snow storm a few years back, but not this much! It was actually bending even more, but didn’t snap.
Sue snaps a picture of me (from the comfort of the house) putting plywood over the window in Ryan’s room in the pelting rain. I left enough space near the bottom to slip out and remove it in an emergency.
Already this morning they called me back. That’s impressive. What’s not so impressive is all the reasons I was told why they might not cover the claim. When I hung up I was actually wondering what would need to happen for any related claim to be covered. It’s not that I didn’t ask. I did. But, for all the agent’s knowledge of what’s not covered, the opposite was true of what is covered. The best I could get is that an adjuster would need to come out (in a few days) and make a determination. In effect, I’m screwed. So, I’m bracing myself for a huge repair bill.
This storm gave me an understanding of what we’re up against if we ever did get pounded and lose power, drinkable water, communications, and so on. We are prepared, yes, but not to the extent I felt 100% comfortable. Having the ability to easily bug out is not viable. For Ryan’s safety we must be able to “shelter-in-place” for an extended period. I now see why hospitals fill-up so quickly during severe weather events. We are fortunate to have caring people always ready to help, but what about those who are alone? I worry about them.
For us, I’m not just talking about the loss of electrical power or drinking water either. For one, how would we keep up with laundry? Even more, this gets seriously complicated with all the medications and care items Ryan needs. For example, we rely on delivery services (USPS, FedEx, and UPS) to get his supplies and some medications to us; what would we do if they suspend services or are delayed in delivery? Sure, we try to inventory what we can, but insurance doesn’t let us have much of a buffer. It’s common to receive supplies a day or two before (and even occasionally the same day) we run out.
I need to get to work on figuring this out.
Hi Ken, you’re right to start thinking so proactively before winter hits. Maybe setting aside several sets of sheets, towels, etc. to be used only in emergency situations would be good. Dirty laundry would have to be stored in bags until power is restored, and then done non stop til it’s finished. Gosh the more I think about it, the more I realize what a challenging task planning is, because there are so many details that need to be considered. Do you have one of those automated external defibrillators? I’m just thinking out loud…hmmm, I know you have a huge file folder containing Ryan’s medical papers — I wonder if these should be copied in case you need a spare set. There’s so much to think about. Battery operated weather alert system/radio would be good. Knowing you, you will consider every aspect and develop a thorough plan.
It’s a lot to do. But then, that’s your life, isn’t it. My heart is with you, Ryan and your family. You deserve every kindness people can give — and then some.
Hugs, prayers for strength, and healing– hope abiding
Paula
I use to work in an insurance office. If the damage was sudden and accidental it should be covered. If something fell on the roof or the wind blew off the shingles then it would be considered sudden and accidental, which you were unable to prevent. If the damage was due from an old roof that was in need of repair, the insurance won’t cover it. Hope it’s covered, I would think so.
Vivian, you are correct. While wear and tear is not a covered peril on any insurance policy, things like wind damage and trees falling/causing damage to homes are. If the wind caused the leak /damage, Ken, you should be okay.
And puleeeze, Kenneth, don’t you be posting any photos of indispensable you on ladders to the rooftop! We older folks get quite anxious when we see our men on ladders! In fact, I am doing my best to get my darling’s ladder out of the shed when he isn’t around and hiding it someplace!
Very happy to learn that you had no water issues on the level where Ryan’s room is. Somehow, water finds its way in during rains like Sandy’s. I hope the leaky roof didn’t cause major damage. We have had leaks of this nature and the roofer just takes care of it. A good roofer might have to remove a couple of shingles off the back of the house, use them on the front so that it all matches, and then use close-match on the back. This works fine. Trying to match shingles is a real pain, unless you have a few extra from your roof. Here’s hoping the rest of your roof is fine. Since your houme isn’t that old, the roof should be good for a few years yet. 🙂
Here’s hoping you don’t get the last remnants of Sandy in the form of snow and ice during tonight’s cold blast. I presume Ryan has recovered from the surgery and incision is healed. Praying for his complete healing, sending love and hope for a relaxing, warm day with Sue, Ryan, Duke and Tucker.
This is the one to call:
http://www.michaelandson.com/windows_siding_roofing.html
What a company!!
We have a SHI- (rhymes with fit) box. We put enough of each supply to get through a weekend. Build it slowly…add supplies as you have an extra here or there. We use a tote box. Make a list. Bag like items in big ziplock. Number each bag and number it on the list……….when you go to get a supply off of the self and it is not there……”Oh SHI- we are out of??? Whatever…. Just go to the SHI- box and there it is! Be sure to replace it when order arrives and once a year or so, check expiration date. Works fo us!
Glad the weather was ok for you. New Jersey and New York City is a mess. Good luck with your house insurance. They don’t cover much and then raise your rates.
I’d like to suggest you give Larkin a call – you may have seen their signs around Ashburn Village… they’ve been doing roofs all over here recently. We used them after the derecho in June and they sent their foreman to meet our insurance adjuster to ensure the damage was identified and covered. They’re great – you can shoot Derek (Larkin) an email at derek@larkinremodelers.com
Good to have an update <3 .
I was concerned about you when i read the post from yesterday and worried the the snow might also hit your area. Hope the insurance company shows some compassion.