Living in the New Orleans area, residents are no strangers to the threats posed by hurricanes. The hurricane season, typically spanning from June to November, brings with it the potential for severe storms, heavy rainfall, and high winds. Properly preparing your house for hurricane season is crucial to ensuring the safety of your home and family. In this article, we will explore the steps you should take to get your home hurricane-ready and what to do if your house sustains storm damage that you can’t or don’t want to repair.
Understanding the Risks
Hurricanes can cause a range of damage, including:
- Wind Damage: High winds can rip off roofs, break windows, and turn loose objects into dangerous projectiles.
- Flooding: Heavy rains and storm surges can lead to significant flooding, damaging the interior of your home and its foundation.
- Power Outages: Storms can knock out power lines, leading to extended periods without electricity.
- Debris: Fallen trees and other debris can block roads and cause further damage to homes and property.
Pre-Season Preparation
1. Create a Hurricane Plan:
- Evacuation Routes: Know your evacuation routes and have a plan for where you will go if you need to leave your home. Keep a list of emergency contacts and a communication plan for family members.
- Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, important documents, and other essentials.
2. Check Your Insurance Coverage:
- Ensure that your homeowner’s insurance policy is up to date and covers hurricane damage. Consider adding flood insurance, as standard policies often do not cover flood-related damage.
3. Inspect and Maintain Your Home:
- Roof: Check for loose or damaged shingles and make necessary repairs. Consider installing hurricane straps or clips to secure the roof to the walls of your house.
- Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or plywood to protect windows and doors. Ensure that all doors, including garage doors, are reinforced and can withstand high winds.
- Gutters and Downspouts: Clean and secure gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage.
As the Storm Approaches
4. Secure Outdoor Items:
- Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, trash cans, and any other loose items that could become projectiles in high winds.
5. Protect Windows and Doors:
- Install storm shutters or plywood over windows and glass doors. Use braces on garage doors to prevent them from being blown in.
6. Trim Trees and Shrubs:
- Trim branches and remove dead trees that could fall on your house during a storm. Ensure that branches are at least 10 feet away from your home to reduce the risk of damage.
7. Prepare for Power Outages:
- Charge all electronic devices and have a supply of batteries for flashlights and radios. Consider purchasing a generator and ensure it is in good working order. Stock up on fuel, but store it safely.
During the Storm
8. Stay Informed:
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay updated on the latest weather alerts and emergency instructions.
9. Stay Indoors:
- Stay inside and away from windows and glass doors. Take shelter in an interior room on the lowest level of your home.
10. Turn Off Utilities:
- If instructed by local authorities, turn off utilities such as gas, water, and electricity to prevent damage and ensure safety.
After the Storm
11. Assess Damage:
- Once it is safe to go outside, carefully inspect your home for damage. Take photos and document any damage for insurance claims.
12. Make Temporary Repairs:
- Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering broken windows and roof damage with tarps.
13. Contact Your Insurance Company:
- Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible and begin the claims process.
Dealing with Storm Damage
Despite your best efforts to prepare, hurricanes can still cause significant damage to your home. If you find yourself in a situation where your house has sustained storm damage that you can’t get fixed or don’t want to deal with, selling to a house buying company like NOLA Buys Houses could be the solution for you.
NOLA Buys Houses:
- Quick Sale: NOLA Buys Houses specializes in buying homes in any condition, including those damaged by storms. They offer a hassle-free process and can close quickly, allowing you to move on without the stress of repairs.
- Fair Offers: The company provides fair cash offers based on the condition of your home and the current market value. There are no hidden fees or commissions, ensuring you get the most out of your sale.
- Peace of Mind: Selling to NOLA Buys Houses gives you peace of mind, knowing that you are not alone in dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane. They handle all the paperwork and logistics, making the process as smooth as possible.
Preparing your house for hurricane season in the New Orleans area is essential to protecting your property and ensuring the safety of your family. By taking proactive steps such as creating a hurricane plan, securing your home, and staying informed during the storm, you can minimize the risks and damage associated with hurricanes.
If your home does sustain damage that you cannot or do not want to repair, consider selling to NOLA Buys Houses. They offer a straightforward solution to help you move on quickly and with minimal stress.
Hurricane season can be daunting, but with proper preparation and the right resources, you can navigate it successfully and protect your home and loved ones.