How Can I Benefit From A Pre-Storm Season Home Inspection?

What are some things that pop into your mind when you hear the word Florida?

While people who just moved here may think about tropical beaches, “older” Sunshine State residents automatically think of destructive winds, persistent rains, flooding, and hurricanes. This is especially true if you ask homeowners who are probably fearing for their safety and their homes during the dreaded hurricane season. 

Fear not, though. A strong typhoon may seem like an unstoppable force, but with the proper preparation, you can minimize the damage to your property.

Stay with us today, and we’ll provide you with some of the strategies that may assist you in safeguarding your home against dreaded Florida storms while also informing you about the benefits of conducting a professional hurricane pre-home inspection.

The Dangers Of Hurricanes

Once a hurricane hits a home, the powerful force can completely rip apart the entire structure. There’s also a high probability of an ensuing storm surge and flooding leading to further damage. 

More precisely, fast winds common during the hurricane season can pull off roofs, destroy siding, break windows and any other construction features attached to a home. Flooding, as already mentioned, is another major concern, as water can easily infiltrate the home and cause structural damage. If not treated immediately, it could lead to mold infestation.

Lastly, there’s also flying debris to contend with. Uprooted trees, glass, and other objects can wreak havoc on an unprotected structure.

As luck would have it, you can mitigate some of this potential damage by preparing the property for the hurricane season. 

How To Prepare Your Home For Hurricane Season

Although doing this will require some money, it’s well worth the cost, considering how much you would cash out to repair the damage.

So, what are your options?

For starters, you should do everything you can to secure the openings in your home. Boarding up the windows is a valid option, but it’s much better to install special storm shutters. 

Since doors are also vulnerable to light-speed winds, you should reinforce the doors on your property. 

Your roof is the most exposed part of your property and is the most critical component in protecting the structure from storms. So, you should install some wind-mitigation features. A good idea is adding hurricane clips or straps to strengthen the connection between the roof and the underlying structure, which will stop the hurricane from ripping off your roof clean off

To battle flooding, consider installing a sump pump connected to a backup power source to remove any water that may penetrate the basement. You should also ensure all the downspouts and gutters are clear of debris to remove water away from the home more effectively. 

A hurricane can turn anything into a projectile, including any outdoor objects. Move any grills, potted plants, or patio furniture inside, or anchor it down to ensure they stay put during the storm. Don’t forget to trim any shrubs or trees, as it’s not uncommon for weak branches to break off during the high winds. 

What Is The Storm Season Inspection?

A hurricane pre-home inspection is an evaluation of the property conducted by a qualified inspector that accurately assesses and documents the condition of your property and helps you prepare for the hurricane season. 

Here are some things included in the hurricane season inspection:

• Documenting the exterior of the home, the condition of the roof, wall structure, etc. 
• Documenting the home’s interior and photographing the condition and contents of each room 
• Inspecting roof drainage, gutters, site drainage, and flashing, along with offering advice on mitigating storm damage
• Documenting presence of mold
• Inspecting openings and recommending necessary upgrades
• Infrared photos that document the condition of your home 

Benefits Of Scheduling An Inspection Before The Hurricane Season

As a proactive measure, a hurricane pre-home inspection offers plenty of noteworthy benefits, including:

1. Identify Vulnerabilities

During the inspection, a qualified professional will identify any vulnerabilities that may pose a threat to your family and property during a storm. By having a detailed list of weak points, you can resolve them before they turn into a threat if the hurricane hits your neighborhood. 

2. Avoid Damage

Naturally, resolving any issue or strengthening your home can help you save money in the long run. For example, repairing a minor vulnerability on the roof can help avoid more extensive repairs that could occur during a hurricane. 

3. Smoother Insurance Claims

In addition to unlocking lower premiums by proving your home is hurricane-resistant, a storm season inspection can also be helpful for your potential insurance claim. By having a report made before the damage occurred, you can prove which damage was caused by the peril, thus making any insurance claims smoother.

4. Boost Property Value

Since homes with hurricane-resistant features are less likely to be destroyed during a storm, inspecting your property and making necessary improvements can significantly reduce the property value. 

5. Peace of mind

Apart from the “real-world” benefits discussed above, an inspection can provide you with something hard to come by - peace of mind. 

You’ll sleep easy knowing you did everything in your power to minimize potential damage if a powerful hurricane finds its way into your neighborhood.

Schedule An Inspection Now

When it comes to hurricanes you can’t afford to be reactive. Rather, you should schedule an inspection immediately, providing yourself enough time to address any vulnerabilities and protect your home amidst the most challenging weather conditions in Florida.

You don’t need to look far to get everything you need. Here at Certified Inspectors, we offer a wide variety of insurance inspections, including the most detailed pre-storm season home inspection in the market. 

With 30 years of experience in the industry and all the certifications under the sky, you can always count on us to deliver inspection services of unmatched quality, regardless of the season. 

Start saving money on your insurance premiums - call (561) 570-6311 or fill out our contact form to book an inspection.