How Do I Prepare My Home Before a Hurricane?

Start by inspecting your roof for loose shingles or tiles and have a qualified roofer make repairs. Secure outdoor furniture, garbage cans, and decorations to prevent them from becoming projectiles. Clear your gutters and downspouts of debris to ensure proper drainage away from your foundation. If you have storm shutters, install them, or use pre-cut plywood to cover windows and glass doors.

Trim tree branches that hang over your roof or near power lines to reduce the risk of them falling. Check your garage door to confirm it is properly secured, as it is often a vulnerable point. Reinforce exterior doors with deadbolt locks or braces. These steps help preserve your home's structural integrity when high winds and heavy rain occur.

Move valuable items, important documents, and electronics to upper floors or high shelves to protect them from potential flooding. Place irreplaceable items like photo albums in waterproof containers. Unplug all electronic appliances and devices to prevent damage from power surges when the storm hits. Cover furniture with plastic sheeting if you anticipate water entering lower areas of your home.

Know the location of your main water, gas, and electrical shutoff valves and how to turn them off safely. If you live in Federal Way, keep your shutoff valve location written down. This can prevent additional water damage from broken pipes or electrical hazards after the storm. Taking photos or a video of your home and belongings before the hurricane provides a record for any insurance claims.

• Elevate furniture and appliances on concrete blocks.
• Seal important papers in waterproof bags or a safe.
• Anchor fuel tanks and other large outdoor objects.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting.
• Fill bathtubs and large containers with clean water for sanitation.
• Charge all phones and backup power banks fully.

Inspect your home carefully for damage once authorities declare it safe to return. Check for structural problems, broken windows, and signs of water intrusion. Document all damage with photographs before you start any cleanup. Be cautious of hazards like downed power lines, standing water, and debris. Contact your insurance company to report the damage and begin the claims process.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. For extensive water damage, the pros can handle tasks like emergency water extraction and structural drying. They can also assist with water-damaged flooring removal and drywall repair. Restoring your home properly after a hurricane takes time and often requires professional assessment to ensure it is done safely and completely.