2026 Hurricane Season Property Preparation Checklist
Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Whether you manage a single property or a portfolio of buildings, preparation is the single most important factor in minimizing storm damage. This checklist covers everything you need to do before, during, and after a hurricane.
8-12 Weeks Before Hurricane Season
Building Exterior
- [ ] Schedule professional roof inspection
- [ ] Repair loose or missing shingles
- [ ] Inspect and seal roof flashing around chimneys and vents
- [ ] Check siding for loose panels or damage
- [ ] Inspect exterior caulking around windows and doors
- [ ] Clean and secure gutters and downspouts
Grounds and Landscaping
- [ ] Trim all trees and remove dead branches
- [ ] Remove trees within falling distance of buildings
- [ ] Secure or remove loose signage
- [ ] Clear storm drains and catch basins
- [ ] Store or secure outdoor furniture and equipment
Emergency Systems
- [ ] Test backup generators and fuel levels
- [ ] Test sump pumps and battery backups
- [ ] Check emergency lighting
- [ ] Verify fire suppression systems
- [ ] Test security systems and cameras
48-72 Hours Before Landfall
Property Securing
- [ ] Install storm shutters or plywood on all windows
- [ ] Brace garage doors
- [ ] Secure rooftop equipment (AC units, vents)
- [ ] Remove or secure all outdoor items
- [ ] Turn off gas at the meter
- [ ] Shut off water to prevent contamination
Documentation
- [ ] Photograph interior and exterior of all properties
- [ ] Store important documents in waterproof containers
- [ ] Update tenant contact information
- [ ] Confirm insurance policy details and agent contact
Communication
- [ ] Notify tenants of emergency procedures
- [ ] Establish communication chain for post-storm
- [ ] Identify evacuation routes and shelters
- [ ] Confirm vendor contacts for emergency repairs
Post-Storm Recovery
Safety First
- [ ] Wait for official all-clear before entering property
- [ ] Check for downed power lines before approaching
- [ ] Do not walk or drive through flood water
- [ ] Check for gas leaks before entering
Damage Assessment
- [ ] Photograph all damage before cleanup
- [ ] Document damage with video walkthrough
- [ ] List all damaged items with estimated values
- [ ] Contact insurance company within 48 hours
- [ ] Schedule emergency mitigation (tarping, water extraction)
Emergency Repairs
- [ ] Tarp damaged roofs immediately
- [ ] Board up broken windows and doors
- [ ] Extract standing water
- [ ] Set up dehumidifiers to prevent mold
- [ ] Have electrical system inspected before restoring power
Pre-Season Vendor Agreements
Establish relationships with emergency response vendors before hurricane season starts. After a major storm, available contractors are overwhelmed with calls. Having a pre-existing agreement ensures priority response when you need it most.
Key vendors to line up:
- Emergency board-up and tarping
- Water damage mitigation
- Roof repair
- Tree removal
- Generator service
