Every year, hurricanes cause billions of dollars in damage to homeowners. High winds, heavy rain, and flooding can strike with little warning, and if you’re not ready, the repairs can be devastating. The good news? A little preparation now goes a long way toward keeping your home and family safe.
Here’s the essential hurricane season checklist to guide you.
🌪️ Secure Your Roof and Exterior
- Inspect shingles for cracks, curling, or missing spots.
- Seal around chimneys, skylights, and vents.
- Tighten loose siding and outdoor fixtures.
Even small roof issues can become major leaks during a storm, so catching them early saves thousands in repairs.
🌳 Trim Trees and Clear Yard Hazards
- Cut back dead or overhanging branches.
- Move patio furniture and grills indoors.
- Store tools, toys, and décor that could become projectiles.
Anything loose in your yard can turn into dangerous debris in high winds, so secure it before the storm arrives.
đź’§ Prepare for Flooding
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
- Place sandbags at basement doors and low entries.
- Test your sump pump and keep a backup power source.
Proper drainage is your first line of defense against flooding, and it only works if you maintain it.
📦 Assemble an Emergency Kit
Every household should have a 3-day supply that includes:
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit and medications
- Portable chargers
- Waterproof storage for important documents
Think of your kit as peace of mind: you’ll be ready if stores are closed or the power stays out for days.
đźš— Plan for Evacuation
- Know your local evacuation routes.
- Arrange for pets in advance (not all shelters allow them).
- Keep a full tank of gas before major storms.
Having a plan before you need it keeps you calm and ensures your family can leave safely if evacuation is ordered.
⚡ Stay Safe During the Storm
- Stay indoors, away from windows and glass doors.
- Use flashlights instead of candles.
- Avoid driving through floodwaters; just a few inches can sweep away a vehicle.
The best way to ride out a hurricane is to stay inside, stay alert, and avoid unnecessary risks.
🔎 Inspect Your Home After the Storm
- Check for roof leaks, broken windows, or siding damage.
- Avoid standing water; it may hide electrical or chemical hazards.
- Document damage with photos and videos for insurance.
Quick inspections help you catch damage early, file claims faster, and prevent small problems from getting worse.
🛠️ Call the Pros Quickly
Delaying cleanup can lead to:
- Mold growth within 24-48 hours.
- Structural weakening.
- Higher restoration costs.
Professional restoration teams can stop the clock on damage. The sooner they start, the less you lose.
🧠FAQs
Q: What’s the #1 step most people overlook?
A: Cleaning gutters. Blocked drainage is a leading cause of water intrusion.
Q: Will my insurance cover hurricane damage?
  A: Most homeowners insurance covers wind-related damage, but not flooding. To protect against flood damage, which often results from storm surge or heavy rain, you’ll typically need a separate policy through the NFIP or a private insurer.
Q: Should I clean up water damage myself?
  A: Small surface drying is okay, but significant water intrusion or saturated materials should be handled by professionals to prevent mold and structural issues.
Q: How long does hurricane damage restoration usually take?
A: It depends on the extent of the damage. Minor water cleanup might take a couple of days, while major flooding or structural repairs can take several weeks. ERX provides an on-site assessment so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
đź“ž Need Emergency Restoration Services?
Hurricane season doesn’t wait, and neither should you. If your home suffers storm damage, ERX (Emergency Restoration Xperts) is ready around the clock to help you recover quickly and safely!
đź“ž Call ERX today at (866)-217-7903 for 24/7 assistance.