Protecting Your Building From Hurricane Damage
Between high winds and flooding, hurricanes can cause extensive property damage. Whether you own a business or a home, make sure you’re prepared to protect your property from the wrath of storm conditions!
Here are some steps you can take to protect your property, whether business or personal, this hurricane season.
Before and throughout the season
Protecting your property from hurricane conditions requires preparation before and throughout hurricane season. Before a hurricane watch* is issued, you should…
Review your insurance protection.
Before the threat of a hurricane, call your insurance agent. Discuss the details of your policy to make sure you understand what is covered and what additional coverage you may need for your home or business.
Gather supplies.
Make sure you have necessary in-case-of-emergency supplies for your home or business, such as sandbags, plastic sheeting, and plywood. These supplies will become harder to come by if a hurricane watch* is issued, so it’s best to have them ahead of time!
Check trees.
Check the trees on your business or personal property. Are any close enough to fall or damage your building? Trim or remove trees and shrubs as needed.
Clear gutters and drains.
Check your building’s gutters and drains. These should remain clear throughout hurricane season especially, just in case.
Hurricane-proof the exterior.
Does your building have storm shutters? Are exterior doors hurricane proof? Make sure the exterior of your home or business is ready for the potential weather conditions.
Waterproof the basement.
Are your basement windows well sealed? Is your sump pump working properly? Are there any rugs in the basement or items that could be damaged if they got wet?
If a hurricane advisory or watch is issued or anticipated
If hurricane conditions are possible or expected in your area, make sure you…
Secure loose items.
Does your business have a sign or chairs outside? Bring loose objects such as outdoor furniture, exterior décor or signage, garbage cans, and any other lightweight outdoor objects inside.
Reinforce walls, windows, doors, etc. to reduce wind damage.
Cover sliding glass doors and windows with plywood (or shutters if you have them!).
*When a hurricane watch is issued, hurricane conditions are possible in or near a specified area within 48 hours. If it escalates to a hurricane warning, hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).
Sources
This blog provides a basic checklist for protecting your personal or commercial property from storm conditions. For more comprehensive information on protecting your home or business property from hurricane damage, visit the following sources for this blog:
- How to Prepare for a Hurricane
- Building a Home that Stands Strong During a Hurricane
- Tips to Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season
Hurricane season in the Atlantic lasts from June through November. If you own a home or business in a hurricane-prone region, stay vigilant. Read other blogs from Merchants Insurance Group on additional hurricane topics:
