Guides / Summer
Prepare your home for summer storms
Hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and hail: what to do before.
Summer brings hurricanes to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and severe storms almost everywhere. Preparing before the season saves money and stress.
Around the house
- Trim dead branches and trees close to the house
- Secure or store outdoor furniture and grills
- Clear gutters and drains
- Know how to shut off water, gas and electricity
Be ready
- An emergency kit with water, food, flashlights, batteries, medications and a battery or hand-crank radio
- A home inventory: walk through with your phone and video your belongings
- Copies of insurance policies and important documents in a waterproof bag or online
- Check whether your policy covers flood; standard homeowners policies usually don't
Follow official advice
Follow evacuation orders and guidance from local officials and the National Weather Service. Ready.gov has checklists for every type of disaster.
General educational information. Follow manufacturer instructions and local codes, and leave gas, electrical, roof and chimney work to qualified pros. Home Pros Nationwide isn't paid by any contractor or brand.