Common Sense Summer Storm Prep

Summer storms are a significant insurance risk regardless of which area of the country you live in. We don’t have the ability to stop damage caused by category-ranked storms. But the average summer thunderstorm can also do damage to siding, shingles, patio furniture, and other vulnerable elements of our home. Here are some common sense recommendations to help you protect property and prepare for summer storms.

First, a property free from debris, and the buildup of leaves, and the overgrowth of shrubs near buildings, is more likely to drain properly, and is better able to prevent the spread of fire from an adjacent property. Therefore, good summer storm prep always begins with a thorough cleaning, pruning and leaf, refuse removal. With a little pre-planning, a landscaper on a regular season schedule is more budget friendly than a once in an emergency cleaning.

Next, downspouts and gutters become clogged during the spring season from seed pods, flowers, and other faded spring glory. When the summer storm hits, the clogged gutter are unable to move enough water. The resulting spillover can run down into foundations, across soffits, into walls, insulation, and result in significant property damage. Therefore, cleaning gutters and downspouts is essential summer storm preparation. When heights are involved, we strongly encourage you to hire a professional. It’s terrible risk management to scale a tall ladder, climb a roof when you are not adept, and risk your most irreplaceable asset: you!

Summer storms can also lead to significant lengths of electric power loss. Summer barbecues are the passion of many people, but food storage and resultant loss during power interruption can be very expensive. Investing in a generator, either whole house, hard-wired, or at a minimum, to run the meats and fish freezer, is essential storm prep. This investment can cost as little as $500 and as much as $20,000. So be sure you understand what you are trying to accomplish, and plan accordingly.

Finally, your property insurance may have a “named storm” deductible. This typically applies when a storm receives an official naming from the weather services, and when wind speed at landfall reaches a predetermined value. Named storm deductibles can leave a property owner on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars of loss. Always, always, consult your insurance professional or risk manager to understand your exposure. A rainy day fund (both figuratively and literally) can be outstanding storm prep.