10 Tips to Storm-Proof Your Home

Homeowners and insurance providers have shared concerns as stormy weather approaches. With increased risks for water damage, power outages, and plumbing issues, the uncertainty can feel overwhelming. Here are 10 ways to help protect your home, whether you are planning short- or long-term!

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5 Immediate Steps Before & After a Storm

1. Store Water for Essential Use
   In the event water pump stations lose power and your local water supply becomes unavailable, you can access to clean water quickly by filling at least one bathtub with water. If you have already stored water in advance, have them ready and accessable. To flush a toilet, pour water directly into the bowl or the tank.
2. Clear Gutters and Drains
   Ensure that all gutters, downspouts, and drains are free of debris. Blocked drains can cause water to pool around your foundation, leading to potential flooding inside the home. A quick clean-up before the storm can make a significant difference in preventing water damage.
3. Test Your Sump Pump
   If your home has a basement, a sump pump is essential in preventing flooding. Before the storm, test it to ensure it’s functioning properly. In areas prone to power outages, consider adding a battery backup to keep it running even during an outage.
4. Prepare for Power Surges and Outages
   Power surges are common during storms and can damage appliances. So you can stay safely connected and prevent costly electrical damage, use surge protectors to safeguard your electronics. Meanwhile, power outages can be extremely disruptive. If possible, keep a generator on hand to keep essential appliances running. If you don’t have a generator, charge your devices and portable chargers in advance, gather flashlights, and have extra batteries available

5. Check for Leaks (Post-Storm)
   After the storm passes, check for visible signs of damage to your plumbing. This could include water in dry areas, discolored water, sewage backups, or leaks in your pipes. If you notice any issues, contact a professional plumber to assess and repair the damage. Watchdog is Beagle Services's 24/7 monitoring system that monitors your property's smart water device alerts and will contact you to help (i.e., upon detecting a burst pipe or automatic shutoff from a connected device).

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5 Steps to Building Resilience

1. Maintain Your Plumbing System
   Regularly clean drains and septic systems to prevent backups during heavy rains. Inspections can catch issues like tree roots in pipes before they escalate. Upgrade supply lines to metal, to help avoid cracks and preventable water damage.
2. Install a Pressure Reducing Valve
   Water pressure changes during storms can put extra stress on your plumbing system. Pressure-reducing valves can help keep the water pressure at a safe level for your plumbing, to help reduce the likelihood of a leak sprouting and helps protect your appliances, water heaters, fixtures, etc.
3. Install an Automatic Water Shutoff Valve & Water Sensors
   These devices give you peace of mind and security, whether you are home or away! Installed on the main water line, automatic water shutoff valves monitor your plumbing for leaks or burst pipes and automatically shut off water to prevent damage. Water sensors are stand-alone devices that get placed inside the home to detect moisture in vulnerable areas with fixtures and appliances like kitchens, bathrooms, washrooms as well as basements. Water sensors can also be connected to the automatic water shutoff valve and automatically turn off the water upon detecting moisture anywhere in the home. Our company (Beagle Services) specializes in helping insurance companies and clients with this technology in their homes, from helping identify a solution to installation and (Watchdog) monitoring for continued support.
4. Install a Sump Pump Monitor
   A sump pump monitor tracks performance and alerts you to issues like power outages, allowing you to respond before flooding occurs, and monitor using your smartphone.
5. Check For Flood Coverage
   Review your insurance to confirm you have adequate flood coverage. Standard policies often exclude flood damage, so checking can help you understand and take precaution if needed.

Conclusion

By taking proactive steps, you can protect your home from storm-related damage and help alleviate weather-induced stress and worry. Our team at Beagle Services is here to help!

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