Spring is approaching. As seasonal changes beckon, you can look forward to warming weather. Often, fronts accompany the warming trend, and with these fronts might come storms. 
The risk of severe weather increases during the spring. With it comes a higher risk of property damage. Your home could sustain damage even as it protects you during a storm. If you let the damage pile up, you might eventually face severe costs and property losses.
Spring Storm Preparation Tips
Spring thunderstorms can hit with very little warning, so preparedness is key. As we enter late winter and early spring, take the time to spruce up your home and secure it against storm damages.
- Keep an eye on the weather at all times. If a severe storm warning develops, immediately take steps to secure the home. Many Americans keep storm alert radios in their homes as a quick reference.
- During good weather, inspect the home’s roof. If the roof has structural problems, it might be more susceptible to wind, rain or hail damage. Replace shingles or other portions of the roof as needed. Considering replacing the roof every six to ten years.
- Check the home’s gutter and drainage systems. Clear debris to allow rainwater to flow freely. If the systems don’t function properly, they might allow water to flood the home.
- Inspect the foundation for cracks. Damaged foundations might allow moisture into the home. Or, severe wind might put additional strains on unstable foundations. Many homes require periodic foundation repairs.
- Should storms threaten imminently, move loose outdoor objects inside. At-risk items might include plants, furniture, tools or toys. Storing these items might help protect them from damage. It can also prevent them from becoming wind-borne projectiles.
- Clean up and clear away dead or damaged shrubbery. Pay special attention to shrubbery that overhangs your home. Should limbs fall on the home in a storm, they could cause severe damage.
- Inspect your electrical system, and have repairs made as necessary. Outages or surges during storms might cause issues. This includes the potential for fires and appliance damage. During storms, turning off and unplugging electronics can help prevent damage.
In the event of severe storm damage, your homeowner’s insurance can often provide help. However, always examine your policy closely. It might contain exclusions or limits on the type of help you receive. For example, your policy might cover hail and wind damage, while not covering flood damage. Talk to your insurance agent at 844.926.0860 about the best way to structure your policy to cover storm damage risks.
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