How Do You Prepare Your Home Before a Hurricane Hits?

Before a storm brings heavy rain, walk around your home and clear gutters, downspouts, and drains of leaves and debris. Clogged gutters cause water to back up under your roofline and spill over, which can lead to attic leaks and interior water damage. Make this a priority if heavy rain is common in your area.

Move patio furniture, grills, potted plants, and trash bins indoors or secure them. Loose items become projectiles in strong winds and can break windows. Also trim weak branches near your home, since falling limbs can puncture your roof or siding and let water in.

If flooding is possible, water can ruin furniture, electronics, and paperwork. Move valuable items from the basement or ground floor to higher levels. Place important documents like passports, deeds, and insurance policies in a waterproof container or on a high shelf.

Take photos of your belongings for your own records. This helps you remember what you had if you need to file a claim later. Do not store items directly on the floor in flood-prone areas; use shelves or elevate them on blocks.

After the storm passes, water damage may still be a concern. Standing water can seep into walls, floors, and carpets. If you experience flooding, act quickly to remove water and start drying out your home. The longer moisture sits, the more damage it can cause.

For significant flooding, local water damage pros can help with water extraction, drying, and cleanup. They can also inspect for hidden moisture in walls and under flooring. If you have mold growth after a flood, a mold professional can assess the situation. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

• Know your water shutoff valve location
• Turn off gas and electricity if advised
• Move valuables to upper floors
• Take photos of your belongings
• Have a plan for drying out after the storm