Hurricane Season Home Prep: What to Check Before the Next Storm

Hurricane season officially starts June 1, and for homeowners in the Houston area, preparation is not something to put off until a storm is already in the Gulf.

Whether you live in Pearland, Friendswood, League City, Houston, or the surrounding Bay Area, hurricane season can bring more than just wind. Heavy rain, street flooding, power outages, downed limbs, roof damage, drainage issues, and insurance concerns can all become part of the picture.

The good news is that a little preparation now can make a big difference later.

Here are a few important things to check around your home and the emergency supplies every household should consider having ready.

 

Start Outside the Home

Before storm activity increases, take a walk around the exterior of your home. Look at anything that could become a problem during high winds or heavy rain.

Check your trees and landscaping first. Trim loose or overhanging limbs, especially those near your roof, windows, fence, driveway, or power lines. Dead branches can come down quickly in a storm.

Next, look at your gutters and drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up around your roofline or foundation. Make sure downspouts are clear and draining away from the home.

You should also check your fence, gates, patio furniture, potted plants, grills, trampolines, outdoor décor, and pool equipment. Anything loose should be secured or moved inside before a storm arrives.

 

Review Your Roof, Windows, and Home Protection

Your roof is one of the most important areas to monitor before hurricane season. Look for missing shingles, visible damage, loose flashing, or areas that may need repair.

If you have storm shutters, window protection, plywood, or hurricane panels, make sure they are accessible and in good condition. Do not wait until everyone is trying to buy supplies at the same time.

For homes in areas that may experience street flooding or drainage issues, consider whether sandbags or other water barriers may be needed.

Check Your Insurance Before You Need It

One of the most important hurricane-season tasks is reviewing your insurance documents before there is a storm threat.

Take time to look over your homeowner’s insurance, wind/hail coverage, flood insurance, deductibles, policy limits, and claim contact information.

It is also smart to take updated photos or videos of your home and personal belongings. Walk through each room and record furniture, electronics, appliances, valuables, and major updates. Store that video somewhere you can access it later.

Keep copies of your insurance documents, IDs, medical information, and emergency contacts in a waterproof container or digital folder.

Have a Family Plan

Storm preparation is not just about the house. It is also about your family knowing what to do.

Make sure everyone knows where emergency supplies are kept, how to receive weather alerts, and where to go if evacuation becomes necessary. Have a plan for pets, medications, elderly family members, children, and anyone with special needs.

Cell service can become unreliable during major weather events, so it is helpful to have a communication plan in place ahead of time.

 

Build Your Emergency Pack Early

Do not wait until the shelves are empty. Build your emergency pack now while things are calm.

Ready.gov recommends having enough supplies to help your household get through several days after a disaster. Here is a practical hurricane-season emergency pack checklist.

 

Basic Emergency Supplies

Your household should have:

• Water: one gallon per person, per day, for several days
• Non-perishable food for several days
• Manual can opener
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Portable phone chargers or power banks
• First aid kit
• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medications
• Copies of IDs, insurance documents, medical information, and emergency contacts
• Cash in small bills
• Waterproof document bag or container
• Whistle
• Multi-tool
• Work gloves
• Duct tape
• Plastic sheeting or tarps
• Matches or lighter in a waterproof container
• Paper towels
• Toilet paper
• Trash bags
• Moist wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Soap and basic hygiene items
• Feminine care products
• Extra glasses or contact lenses
• Change of clothes
• Sturdy shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Local maps in case GPS is unavailable
• Fuel plan for vehicles and generator, if applicable

Emergency Supplies for Kids

If you have children, add:

• Diapers and wipes
• Formula or baby food
• Bottles
• Comfort items
• Snacks
• Small games or activities

A few familiar items can make a stressful situation feel a little less overwhelming for kids.

Emergency Supplies for Pets

Do not forget your pets. Your pet emergency kit should include:

• Pet food
• Water
• Bowls
• Leash or carrier
• Medications
• Vaccination records
• Waste bags or litter supplies
• Comfort item or blanket

If you may need to evacuate, check ahead of time for pet-friendly hotels, shelters, or family members who can accommodate pets.

Home Protection Supplies

For the home, consider having:

• Sandbags, if needed
• Window protection or storm shutters
• Generator, used safely outdoors only
• Extension cords rated for proper use
• Battery lanterns
• Cooler
• Ice packs
• Cleaning supplies
• Bleach or disinfectant
• Fire extinguisher

These items are much easier to gather now than when a storm is approaching.

A Little Preparation Can Save a Lot of Stress

Hurricane season is part of living along the Gulf Coast, but preparation can help protect your family, your home, and your peace of mind.

Take time now to check your property, review your insurance, organize your documents, and build your emergency pack.

The goal is not to panic. The goal is to be ready.

If you have questions about homeownership, insurance considerations, flood zones, resale value, or preparing your home before selling, I am always happy to be a trusted real estate resource.

Shelley Broussard
Shelley B TX Realtor | Real Broker, LLC
832-890-3504
shelley@shelleybtxrealtor.com