As Kalamazoo/Portage and surrounding areas begin to recover after the devastating effects of the tornado, Home Builders Association of Western Michigan (HBAMWI) is offering information and resources to help homeowners in the community rebuild.

“As members of the community, we are devastated by the damaged caused by the tornados,” Kevin Osborne, Osborne Construction & Maintenance HBA President. “Rebuilding homes will take time, and we want residents to know that we stand with them and when they are ready, we are willing to address their needs in any way we can.”

For homeowners interested in rebuilding, the HBAWMI recommends several tips to help them get started:

• Contact Your Insurance Company. Homeowners are encouraged to review their homeowner’s insurance policy and contact their insurance company as soon as possible to report damages. Many companies have already activated a disaster relief team to assess damages in a timely manner.
• Stay Safe During Damage Assessments. Many structures lost stability due to strong winds and tree damage. Homeowners should take extreme caution as they assess the damage to their home.

• Create a Recovery Folder. Homeowners should take time to organize any applicable contacts, communications, or forms into virtual or physical folders to keep the information centralized and easily accessible.

• Work with a Professional Home Builder. There are many intricacies related to building homes. Professional builders have a firm grasp of requirements to meet city ordinances, regulations, and permits. They’re licensed and insured, dedicated to their industry, and committed to building safely, while keeping up with the latest trends and code requirements.
  
  
• Prepare Homes for the Future. Homeowners should connect with residential building industry professionals and ask them about how to future-proof their home for increased climate resilience. In the event a disaster strikes again, it’s important to know your home’s rebuild value, to make sure you your insurance coverage has kept up with inflation.

The HBA of Western Michigan is affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders - a trade association that represents the largest network of craftsmen, innovators and problem solvers dedicated to building and enriching communities. The HBAWMI was established in 1946 and represents Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Branch, Barry, St. Joseph, Van Buren, and east Allegan Counties.

The Home Builders Association of Western Michigan is an organization that is committed to Building Homes and Strengthening Communities.