How to Prepare Your Property for Hurricane Season: A Step-by-Step Guide for Peace of Mind

Hurricane season brings more than just the potential for powerful storms. It brings the potential for flooding, property damage, and costly disruptions to everyday life. If you live in a flood-prone area, now is the time to act, not react.

Here's a practical, step-by-step guide to help you prepare your property for hurricane season and stay ahead of the storm.

Inspect and Secure the Exterior

Storm winds and heavy rain can quickly turn everyday property features into hazards. A few simple maintenance tasks can go a long way:

• Trim trees and branches that hang over your roof, vehicles, or power lines.
• Secure gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and reduce water damage.
• Inspect your roof and siding for loose shingles or cracks.
• Check windows and doors, reinforcing them with storm shutters or plywood if needed.

Protect Valuables and Critical Equipment

Floodwaters don’t discriminate. They’ll damage whatever is in their path. That’s why preparation is key.

• Move valuable items and electronics off the ground and to higher floors if possible.
• Cover or elevate HVAC systems, generators, and fuel tanks.
• Waterproof important documents, or store them digitally and securely.

Understand Your Flood Risk

Not all flood risk is obvious, and it’s not just waterfront properties that are vulnerable.

• Know your flood zone using FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center or your local planning department.
• Assess your property’s drainage, including ditches, swales, or retention ponds. Keep them clear of debris.
• Install or check sump pumps and other drainage equipment.

Document Your Property and Review Insurance

If you ever need to file a claim, documentation is crucial.

• Photograph your property, including structural details, valuables, and equipment.
• Review your insurance coverage, especially flood insurance, which is not included in standard homeowners policies.
• Know your policy limits and deductibles before a storm hits.

Create a Family or Business Emergency Plan

Preparedness isn't just about the property. It’s about protecting people, too.

• Know your evacuation routes and local shelter locations.
• Create a communication plan in case cell service is down.
• Stock an emergency kit with water, food, medications, flashlights, and important documents.

Think Long-Term: Invest in Resiliency

Short-term prep is critical, but long-term solutions offer lasting peace of mind.

• Install flood vents or dry floodproofing systems to reduce damage.
• Consider elevating your structure or critical utilities if you're in a high-risk zone.
• Look into grant programs or financial incentives to help cover the cost of mitigation projects.

Fight the Flood Can Help

If you're not sure where to start, you're not alone. That’s why the Fight the Flood network exists: to connect property owners like you with local experts, funding resources, and tailored mitigation strategies to reduce flood risk. Learn more about this program here.