Hurricane season begins on June 1st and carries through November 30th every year and if this is your first year in the south or if you are a well-seasoned Floridian, we can all use a few reminders on preparing your rental investment property for hurricane season! Owning an investment rental property comes with the responsibility of safeguarding your asset, particularly during hurricane season.
With the potential for severe weather conditions and destructive storms, taking proactive measures to protect your property is essential. By considering the following, homeowners and tenets alike can work together to minimize damage and ensure the longevity of their rental property.
Stay Informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts and hurricane warnings issued by local authorities. If you are a tenant new to the area, familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and the nearest shelter locations.
Clear and Secure Outdoor Areas: Remove any loose objects from the property's exterior that could become projectiles in high winds. Trim trees and branches near the building to reduce the risk of falling debris. Secure fences, gates, and signage to prevent damage caused by strong winds. If you are a tenant and see any potential risk factors, report them to your property manager proactively (don’t wait until a storm is approaching!) so they can determine the appropriate course of action. All potted plants, patio furniture, BBQ grills, trash cans, and other outside personal items must be properly secured and/or moved indoors by tenants.
Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to prevent water buildup. Proper drainage helps prevent flooding and potential water damage to the property's foundation and interior.
Review Insurance Coverage: Homeowners should regularly review their insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage for hurricane-related damage. Consider adding flood insurance if your property is in a flood-prone area. Keep a record of your property's condition, including photographs, as evidence for insurance claims if needed. Tenants should review the Renters insurance proactively as well.
Establish Emergency Contacts and a Communication Plan: Compile a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, utility companies, and maintenance professionals. Develop a communication plan to keep tenants informed about emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and important updates.
Once the storm has passed: If damage occurs and repairs are needed, report damages to the Osto team and through the online portal. Please remember vendors will not be available for repairs until it is safe to do so. Repairs will be scheduled in a priority fashion. Depending on the actual impact of the hurricane, all repairs will be addressed but your patience is appreciated.
