Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season

We said “good riddance” to Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, but it’s time for the next round of unwelcome visitors. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts another above-average year of hurricane activity. From Andrea to Wendy, their forecast calls for 13 to 18 named storms.

Below are your annual reminders from ServiSolutions for protecting your property in a major storm.

• Clear your yard. Bring tools, toys and patio furniture inside. Anything left outdoors can become a missile in high winds.

• Trim your trees. Dead branches and overgrown foliage are more likely to fall during storms, causing more damage to your property.

• Repair leaks, holes and roof damage. Take these steps to keep water out and your belongings safe and dry.

• Clean gutters and clear drains. Keeping drains and gutters unclogged will help direct water away from your property instead of letting it pool up and enter your home.

• Secure propane tanks. Filled with explosive fuel, propane tanks are one of the most dangerous projectiles during a hurricane. Shut off the valves and make sure the tank is bolted or tied down in a well-ventilated area in an upright position. Never bring the tank inside your home.

• Review your insurance policies. Check with your insurance agent to ensure you have coverage for the full cost of rebuilding your home. Make a list of your belongings. Consider flood insurance, because some homeowner policies cover hurricane damage but not the flood damage that often follows it.

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. Don’t wait until the rain starts falling! Many of these tasks can be accomplished in advance of an approaching storm to give you peace of mind and more time to protect your most important investment – your family.