Hurricane Season Prep Checklist for Eastern NC Homeowners

Before hurricane season starts

• Review your insurance policy. Find your hurricane or windstorm deductible and check whether you have flood coverage. Standard homeowners policies usually don't cover flooding, and new flood policies typically have a 30-day waiting period, so don't wait until a storm is in the forecast.
• Make a home inventory. Walk through every room and record a video of your belongings. Save it to the cloud so it isn't lost with your phone.
• Check your roof. Look for missing or loose shingles and damaged flashing. Small problems become big leaks in hurricane-force wind.
• Clean gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters send water into your walls and crawlspace.
• Trim trees. Cut back dead limbs and branches hanging over your roof.
• Store important papers. Keep insurance policies, IDs, and deeds in a waterproof container or saved digitally.

When a storm is coming

• Bring in or tie down patio furniture, grills, trash cans, and anything else wind can pick up.
• Cover windows with storm shutters or plywood.
• Stock water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and phone chargers for at least three days.
• Fill your car's gas tank and get some cash.
• Move valuables and electronics off the floor and away from windows.
• Know your evacuation zone and route, and leave if officials tell you to.

After the storm passes

• Stay safe first. Avoid downed power lines and flood water, which can hide hazards and contamination.
• Document everything. Take photos and video of all damage before you clean up or make repairs.
• Prevent more damage. Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps, like getting a tarp on the roof. Keep receipts.
• Call your insurance company to start your claim.
• Start drying out quickly. Wet materials can start growing mold within a day or two in our climate.

Common questions

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