How to Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season

Start with your roof. Schedule an inspection before hurricane season begins, and address any loose shingles, damaged flashing, or existing leaks — small roof problems become much bigger ones under sustained high wind and rain.

Protect windows and doors. Storm shutters or pre-cut plywood panels are the standard approach if you don't already have impact-rated windows. Seal gaps around doors and windows with fresh caulk and weather stripping ahead of the season.

Clear gutters, downspouts, and drainage paths around your home so rainwater has somewhere to go — clogged drainage is one of the most common causes of avoidable flood damage during heavy storms.

Trim trees and secure the yard. Remove dead branches near your home and secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, and anything else that could become a projectile in high wind.

Build a basic emergency kit: several days of water and non-perishable food, flashlights and batteries, a first-aid kit, any needed medications, cash, and a battery- or crank-powered radio for updates if the power and cell networks go down.

Document your home before storm season — photos or video of each room and the exterior make insurance claims significantly easier if damage does occur.

Use our marketplace to find local roofing, general contracting, and home repair professionals to help you prepare or recover.