Remember Hurricane Idalia last year? Yeah, that wasn’t fun for anyone, especially for folks in Florida. Those images of wind-whipped streets and flooded homes were a stark reminder of Mother Nature’s power.
As a landlord, watching something like that unfold with your property on the line can feel like a horror movie. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be that way.
We’re about to witness another hurricane season this June to November. You’ll be doing yourself, your tenant, and your property itself a whole lot of good by transforming your rental property into a hurricane-ready fortress.
Wondering how you can achieve this? Don’t worry, this article has got you covered.
How to Prepare Your Rental Property for Hurricane Season
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasters predict an above-normal season this 2024, with 19 named storms, of which 9-12 could become hurricanes (including 4-7 major hurricanes).
As a property owner, this statistic should be the call to action you need to get to work. As promised, here are some of the ways you can safeguard your rental property for this hurricane (and all the others that follow):
Acquire hurricane supply kits
If your rental property is in a hurricane-prone area, consider providing a basic hurricane disaster supply kit for your tenants.
The kit could contain essentials like flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and a battery-powered radio. Doing this shows your tenants that you care, and it helps them feel prepared in case of an emergency.
As a tip, you should stock up on these kits before June when the prices get higher.
Safeguard the outdoors
Take walks around your house and identify anything that could be a potential threat to your building. Try to pick out materials that could become a projectile in high winds – patio furniture, grills, even those cute little gnome statues. Anything that could potentially turn into flying debris should be removed from the premises.
Give your trees a trim
Pay special attention to the trees. Overgrown branches on them can turn into rams that batter your building when the hurricane starts. Trim back tree limbs around the property, focusing on those close to the roof.
Doing it yourself can save some costs, but hiring a professional who can use the right tools and give the trees a proper trim would be best.
Have Shutters installed
If your rentals don’t already have shutters, consider installing them.
Hurricane shutters provide a strong barrier against windblown debris, and they protect windows and prevent water damage.
Installing them might tone down the glam of your property, but not to worry. If you like, you can pull them down after the hurricane is over.
Prepare the interiors
It’s not always possible to prevent water from seeping into the building. So, you have to ensure that your interiors are well protected.
Move any area rugs or carpets away from doors and windows. Water tends to pool in these areas, and wet rugs are a nightmare to deal with later.
If possible, move furniture and valuables off the floor, especially in areas prone to flooding. A few extra inches can make a big difference. You should also inspect your doors and windows for any gaps or cracks. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal any potential entry points for windblown rain.
Work with your tenants
Your tenants are on this hurricane journey with you. They deserve to feel informed and prepared. Schedule a friendly chat (or send a thoughtful email) to discuss hurricane preparedness with them.
Discuss evacuation plans together. Where would they go if an evacuation order is issued? This conversation is especially important if it’s their first hurricane as your tenants. Don’t forget to teach them how to use the safety gear you’ve acquired.
As a landlord, you probably spend enough time juggling rent payments and leaky faucets. The last thing you need is a hurricane throwing a wrench into your plans. Jennette Properties has helped hundreds of other property owners like yourself make it through the hurricane. Before the hurricane hits this year, contact us today and make sure your rental building is equipped to withstand the storm.
