As we enter the heart of hurricane season, taking proactive steps to protect your property is more important than ever. From storm-proofing and emergency planning to expert support and insurance documentation, communities that prepare now are better equipped to stay safe and recover quickly.
Storm-Proofing Your Property: Essential Physical Preparations
Protecting your property begins with addressing potential physical hazards.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to allow proper water runoff. This prevents water from pooling around your home and causing damage.
- Clear Trees Away from Buildings: Trim trees and branches that are too close to your home to reduce the risk of damage from falling limbs during storms.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Secure deck furniture and other loose items to prevent them from becoming projectiles during high winds. Clear patios of any debris that could cause damage.
Pre-Storm Planning: Critical Steps for Emergency Readiness
Planning ahead ensures a smoother recovery in the event of a hurricane.
- Organize Important Paperwork: Keep all insurance documents and other critical paperwork on a portable hard drive or in a fire and weatherproof safe.
- Establish Emergency Contacts: Identify and maintain direct contacts for emergency and non-emergency services in your area to simplify communication post-storm.
- Document Your Property: Take detailed photos and notes on the current condition of your property. This documentation is invaluable when filing insurance claims.
- Perform a Pre-Storm Inspection: Schedule a thorough property inspection before hurricane season. Address any maintenance issues or leaks promptly, and keep a copy of the inspection report and completed repairs with your important paperwork.
Hiring Experts Before a Storm
Working with qualified professionals ahead of a storm can save time and reduce stress during storm recovery.
Hire a Consultant Before the Storm: Consultants can help secure post-storm resources and vendors, who may be in high demand after a hurricane. Look for professionals with certifications in waterproofing and mold remediation to ensure they are equipped to handle storm-related issues effectively.
We offer a monthly retainer to help your community prepare for any named storms and quickly recover should one hit your area. These services include:
- A customized hurricane preparedness kit, complete with local emergency numbers and hotlines.
- Post-storm inspection services to assess your community’s needs.
- Access to our team of experts and vendor partners for necessary repairs (vendor scope of work priced separately).
- 20+ years of storm restoration experience to support your insurance claim and help your community through the recovery process.
Supporting Insurance Claims
Proper documentation and preparation can make insurance claims faster and easier.
- Keep photos and records of your property’s condition before a storm.
- Store inspection reports and maintenance records with important paperwork in a safe place that can be easily accessed in the event of evacuation or storm damage.
- Well-organized records are critical in supporting insurance claims for any storm-related damage.
By following these tips and investing in proper preparation, you can minimize the risk of damage to your property and ensure a smoother recovery process in the event of a hurricane or severe storm. Don't wait until it's too late – start preparing your property today.
