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Emergency Services July 5, 2026 3 min read

2026 Hurricane Season Property Preparation Checklist

2026 Hurricane Season Property Preparation Checklist

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
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