When a major storm rolls through South Florida, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and fallen branches—it can wreak havoc on your home’s structural integrity. And here’s the kicker: not all damage is immediately visible. That’s why knowing the signs of structural damage after a major storm is crucial. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, identifying these red flags early can save you thousands in repairs and help you file a stronger insurance claim.
At LMR Public Adjusters, South Florida’s premier public adjusters, we’ve seen it all—from cracked foundations to leaning walls. Our dedicated team is here to advocate for property owners like you, ensuring you get the most out of your insurance claim. But before we can help, you need to know what to look for.
Think of your home like a human body. After a traumatic event, you might not see the internal injuries right away. Similarly, after a storm, your home might look fine on the outside but be suffering internally. Let’s break down the most common signs of structural damage and what you should do about them.
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Cracks are like your home’s way of crying out for help. After a storm, especially one with high winds or flooding, it’s common to see new cracks appear—or old ones worsen. But not all cracks are created equal. Some are harmless, while others scream “structural damage.”
Start by inspecting both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for:
These cracks can indicate that your home’s foundation has shifted or settled unevenly due to water saturation or wind pressure. If left unchecked, they can lead to more severe issues like wall collapse or water intrusion.
Don’t just patch them up and move on. Document everything with photos and contact a professional. Better yet, reach out to LMR Public Adjusters to help you assess the damage and file a claim. We’ve helped countless homeowners in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and beyond get the compensation they deserve.
Your roof is your first line of defense against the elements. So when a storm hits, it often takes the brunt of the impact. Missing shingles, dented flashing, or even a slight sag in your ceiling can be early indicators of serious structural issues.
After a storm, grab a flashlight and head to your attic. Look for:
These signs suggest that water has breached your roof’s protective layers. Over time, this moisture can weaken wooden beams, cause mold growth, and even lead to ceiling collapse. If your ceiling looks like it’s bowing or feels soft to the touch, don’t wait—get it checked out immediately.
LMR Public Adjusters specializes in wind damage and water damage claims. Our team will inspect your roof, document the damage, and negotiate with your insurance company so you don’t have to.
Need help in Pembroke Pines or Plantation? We’ve got you covered.
Ever tried to close a door after a storm and it just won’t budge? That’s not just humidity messing with your woodwork—it could be a sign of structural shifting. When your home’s frame moves, even slightly, it can throw off the alignment of doors and windows.
Here’s what to watch for:
These issues often point to a compromised foundation or warped framing. And while they might seem like minor annoyances, they can lead to bigger problems like air leaks, water intrusion, and even pest infestations.
Don’t ignore these subtle signs. They’re your home’s way of telling you something’s off. At LMR Public Adjusters, we help homeowners in Parkland and Miramar identify and document these issues for insurance claims. We’re not just adjusters—we’re your advocates.
Walking across your living room shouldn’t feel like hiking up a hill. If your floors are suddenly uneven or sloping, it’s a major red flag. This often indicates that your home’s foundation has shifted or that support beams have been compromised.
Here’s how to check:
These signs can be caused by soil erosion, water damage, or even tree roots disturbing your foundation. And once your floors start to shift, everything else—from walls to ceilings—can follow suit.
LMR Public Adjusters has extensive experience with plumbing damage and pipe burst damage that often lead to these issues. If you’re in Hallandale Beach or Aventura, give us a call. We’ll help you get your floors—and your claim—back on level ground.
Let’s talk about the silent invader: mold. After a storm, moisture can seep into hidden corners of your home, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold. And once it takes hold, it spreads fast—often before you even notice it.
Watch for:
Mold isn’t just gross—it’s dangerous. It can weaken drywall, rot wood, and pose serious health risks. If you suspect mold, don’t try to handle it yourself. You need a professional assessment and remediation plan.
LMR Public Adjusters can help you file a mold damage claim and connect you with trusted remediation experts. We’ve helped clients in Hollywood, FL and Pinecrest recover from mold infestations caused by storm damage.
Your chimney and exterior walls are often overlooked during post-storm inspections, but they’re just as vulnerable. High winds and flying debris can crack bricks, loosen mortar, or even tilt your chimney.
Check for:
These signs can indicate that your chimney is no longer structurally sound. And if it collapses, it can cause serious injury or damage to your roof and interior.
LMR Public Adjusters has helped clients in Dania Beach and Weston file successful claims for chimney and wall damage. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get it inspected and documented today.
If you’ve spotted any of the signs we’ve discussed, don’t panic—but don’t delay either. Here’s a quick action plan:
We’re not just here to file paperwork—we’re here to fight for you. Our team works across South Florida, including Lake Worth, Pompano Beach, and beyond. Let us help you turn a stressful situation into a successful claim.
Major storms can leave behind more than just visible mess—they can compromise the very bones of your home. By learning how to spot the signs of structural damage, you’re taking the first step toward protecting your investment and your family’s safety.
Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. LMR Public Adjusters is here to guide you every step of the way. With our personalized, dedicated team, we’ll help you maximize your insurance claim and get your life back on track.
Look for cracks in walls or foundations, sagging ceilings, sticking doors, and uneven floors. These are often the earliest indicators that something’s wrong beneath the surface.
Yes, but it’s crucial to document everything and get a professional assessment. LMR Public Adjusters can help you gather the necessary evidence and file a strong claim.
In Florida, you typically have up to three years to file a claim, but it’s best to act quickly. The sooner you file, the easier it is to prove the damage was storm-related.
While mold itself isn’t structural damage, it often results from structural issues like roof leaks or water intrusion. It can also weaken materials and lead to further damage.
Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. A public adjuster like LMR Public Adjusters works for you, not the insurer, to ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
Dania Beach, Broward County, Davie, Weston, Boca Raton, Cooper City, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Parkland, Pembroke Pines, Pinecrest, Plantation, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Fisher Island, Miramar, Delray Beach, Hallandale Beach , Lake Worth, Boynton
