Insurance

10 Tips For Preparing Your Home For A Summer Storm

Since July is considered the wettest month in North Carolina, we are sharing 10 tips to prepare your house for summer storms. It’s also the weekend, so you might have some free time to check some of these off the list. 

  1.  Know your policy. Knowing what is and isn’t covered in your homeowners insurance is critical. This way you know what necessary steps to take if you’re affected by a storm. 
  2.  Update your home inventory. In the event your home or parts of your home are destroyed during a storm, it is important to have hand-ons receipts and up-to-date inventory on the valuables in your home. Make sure you have a backup of your inventory in a place other than inside your home. Keep important paperwork such as legal paperwork, mortgage paperwork, and insurance policy in a safe deposit box.
  3.  Clear limbs and trim trees. The most common and expensive causes of damage during a storm come from falling trees and branches. This can cause damage to your home’s exterior, roof, and windows. Trees with shallow roots may also cause damage by pulling out during heavy rain.
  4.  Speaking of roofs, check your roof. Check to make sure there aren’t any missing shingles or holes that could create a leak. Do any repair work that is necessary to ensure your roof is secure and there isn’t any loose siding. 
  5.  Secure your fence. Ensuring your fence is secure can prevent it from being lifted and thrown against your house by winds during a strong storm. 
  6.  Invest in a generator. Depending on how powerful a storm is, you may be out of power for a while. With a generator, you can protect your home by powering your A/C unit, alarm system, and more. 
  7.  Anchor or secure outdoor furniture. During a storm, some furniture could also be lifted and thrown against your house and cause damage. Secure your furniture to prevent this. 
  8.  Get coverage for sewage backups if you’re not already covered for it. Oftentimes during heavy rain, sump pumps may get overwhelmed and cause water and sewage to back into your home. This damage is expensive and smelly. Check your homeowners insurance policy to see if you’re covered. 
  9.  Check your gutters. Help prevent damage inside your home by ensuring that your gutters are tightly attached to your house, clear of debris, and the downspouts drain away from your home.
  10.  Have a disaster kit ready. This emergency kit can help you if you lose power during a storm. Some useful items to include are flashlights, batteries, cash, phone charger, first-aid kit, a week-supply of medications, and a supply of food and water for your household members. 

Give us a call if you have any questions regarding home insurance or are interested in a free quote! Reach us at (704) 824-3130

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