Essential Storm Preparedness: A Checklist for Home Protection

Leena Cherian • June 17, 2025

Living in Houston means being no stranger to hurricanes and tropical storms. As a homeowner, preparing ahead of time is essential to protect your property, your family, and your community.


Why It Matters


  • Reduces Property Damage
  • Ensures Safety
  • Helps avoid Last-Minute Stress
  • Protects Insurance Claims to help you navigate post-storm insurance processes more easily.


Structural Protection


  • Inspect roof for loose shingles or tiles
  • Clean gutters and downspouts
  • Install storm shutters or pre-cut plywood for all windows
  • Reinforce garage doors and entry doors
  • Seal all openings to prevent wind and water intrusion

 

Yard and Exterior Safety

  • Trim trees and remove dead branches
  • Bring in or secure outdoor furniture and décor
  • Store trash bins, grills, and lawn tools indoors
  • Secure fences, sheds, and other outdoor structures


Flood and Water Control


  • Check sump pumps and drains
  • Place sandbags near vulnerable entry points
  • Elevate valuable items and appliances in flood-prone areas


Insurance & Documentation


  • Review homeowners and flood insurance policies
  • Take photos/video of home and belongings for documentation
  • Back up important documents to the cloud or USB


Emergency Preparation


  • Assemble emergency kit (water, non-perishable food, flashlights, first aid, medications)
  • Prepare evacuation plan and identify local shelters
  • Charge devices and backup batteries
  • Inform all family members of safety procedures


Prepare for Power Outages: 

Have a backup power source if needed, and remember to use it safely. Here are some examples:


Generators: Typically larger in size and capacity for what can be powered, they can typically charge anywhere from a few devices/appliances on up to an entire house (depending on the specific generator and setup). When using a generator it's important to stay safe, so be sure to follow the proper handling instructions - including where to put it when running - that are provided by the manufacturer. It's recommended to review the instructions in advance, so you're prepared if you need to use the generator.


Solar Powered Charging Bank: These are smaller in size, typically closer in size to a cell phone. They can typically be charged up in two ways - either connected to a power source (e.g. outlet, car adapter) or via sunlight. In the event of a lengthy power outage, the solar feature on these can help ensure your devices can be charged and keep you connected to the news and loved ones.


Final Reminders 


  • Monitor official weather updates regularly- National Weather Service. Visit the Texas Hurricane Center for information on proactive steps to take before, during, and after a hurricane , visit TexasReady.gov for additional hurricane safety tips and tdem.texas.gov/prepare for preparedness information. 
  • Don’t wait until a storm is imminent—prepare in advance.
  • Keep copies of all important documents, contacts, and policies in a waterproof folder or backed up digitally.
  • Practice your emergency plan at least once a year.


By preparing early, you can face hurricane season with greater confidence and peace of mind.

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