During the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, "Selling your Home" or "Buying a Home" is probably the last thing on your mind. However, what should you do if your home has been damaged during a hurricane?

1. Most hurricane damage is caused by wind and water. Flood insurance is one of the best defenses against the rapid water rise that occurs during a hurricane. Most home owner insurance does not include flood insurance, it is something that needs to be purchased separately.
2. Photograph and document all the damage that your house endured. This will speed up the insurance claims by making the process easier.
3. Until an insurance adjuster assesses the damage, the only repairs that you should make to your house are the ones that prevent further damage. Repairs such as covering any broken windows and holes in the roofs with tarps or plastic to keep the rain out. Any permanent repairs should be done only after an insurance adjuster reviews the damage.
4. If your home is uninhabitable, you will need to find a safe place to stay while your home is under repair. Some home insurance policies contain a "loss of use" coverage, it should help pay for some of the lodging expenses.

It can take a bit of time to recover from the damage and destruction after a hurricane ravages through your town, but with some preparation the recovery time can be hastened. Be patient, things will get back to normal soon.