The Storms Are Bigger: What You Should Do to Protect Your Home

I trust that you’ll agree that storms have intensified over the years. We’re dealing with stronger winds, more rain, and frequent hurricanes, putting more lives and homes at risk.

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The severity of storms today is a clear sign of changing weather patterns, and homeowners need to be more prepared than ever, however, it’s important to remember that while we can’t control the weather, there are steps we can take to protect our homes and possessions. With the right preparations, you can face these storms with confidence.

Why Are Storms Getting More Intense?

Over the last decade, we’ve all noticed the increase in extreme weather events. Hurricanes are becoming more powerful, rains are heavier, and flooding is more widespread. Warmer temperatures are fueling these larger storms, with more moisture in the atmosphere leading to intense downpours and flash floods.

It’s no longer just a problem for coastal areas, and homes far from the ocean are seeing damage from wind, rain, and rising waters.For example, hurricanes like Helene caused unprecedented damage, and even inland areas (ex. Asheville NC), saw homes and businesses destroyed. These storms are coming faster, lasting longer, and affecting more regions than ever before. The question we now face is: how do we prepare?

What Can Homeowners Do to Protect Their Homes?

The good news is, despite the increasing severity of storms, there are practical steps you can take to better protect your home and belongings. Here are some key ways to ensure your safety and reduce the risk of damage when storms hit.

Review Your Insurance Policy

The first thing I tell my clients is to review their homeowners insurance policy. The most important question to ask is: Do I have enough coverage? You need to be sure that your policy will cover the cost of rebuilding your home and replacing your possessions in the event of severe damage.?It’s also essential to understand that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. If you live in an area prone to flooding, or even if you don’t, it’s a good idea to look into a separate flood insurance policy. Storms aren’t always predictable, and heavy rains can cause flooding in unexpected areas.

Prepare Your Home’s Exterior

Your home’s exterior is its first line of defense in a storm, so it’s crucial to ensure it’s ready for severe weather. Start with the roof, inspect it for missing or loose shingles, and repair any damage. In high winds, shingles can blow off, allowing water to seep into your home. If your roof is older, you might consider upgrading to materials designed to withstand high winds.

Another area to focus on is your windows. Install storm shutters or board them up with plywood before a hurricane. Broken windows are a common cause of damage during storms, letting in rain and debris, which can lead to more serious destruction inside.

Also, don’t forget to trim any trees or branches near your home. High winds can easily knock down tree limbs, which can cause significant damage to your roof, windows, or siding. Clear gutters and downspouts as well, so water can drain properly and not pool around your foundation, which could lead to basement flooding.

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Protect Against Flooding

Flooding is one of the most common and devastating effects of storms, so it’s important to take steps to protect your home from water damage. Start by checking your home’s grading and making sure water flows away from the foundation. You might also consider installing a sump pump in your basement or crawlspace, especially if you live in an area prone to heavy rain.

In addition to these measures, move important items and documents to higher levels of your home, especially if your area is expecting severe flooding. Keep an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, and bottled water in a safe, dry location.

Create a Home Inventory

In the event of storm damage, trying to remember everything in your home can be overwhelming. That’s why creating a home inventory is one of the best things you can do to make the insurance claim process easier. Take photos or videos of every room, including your valuables. Keep a record of purchase dates, serial numbers, and receipts if you have them. ((Do it now BEFORE you’re facing an emergency.)

Store your home inventory in a safe, secure place, either online or in a fireproof, waterproof box. That way, if disaster strikes, you have the information readily available to file a claim quickly.

Make an Emergency Plan

Having a plan in place before a storm hits is crucial to ensuring the safety of you and your family. Know the safest rooms in your house and identify local evacuation routes. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in an emergency, and have an emergency kit ready with food, water, medications, and important documents.It’s also a good idea to have a communication plan in place. Identify a family member or friend outside of your area who can act as a point of contact in case local lines are down.

Storms may be getting bigger, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With the right actions, you can protect your home, your belongings, and your loved ones. Be proactive, stay informed, and most importantly, stay safe.

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Please let me know if we can assist and answer any questions you might have.