Topic 04
Storm Preparedness
East Texas sees the full weather calendar: hurricanes, derechos, ice storms, and spring tornadoes. Most storm claims are preventable with 90 minutes of preparation per season.
What you'll learn
- The seasonal checklist that prevents most storm claims
- How to document your property before storm season, not after
- Generator basics — and what NOT to power
- Family communication and go-bag essentials
Roof, gutters, and tree line
80% of storm claims trace back to a maintenance item that could have been handled beforehand. Annual roof inspection, gutter clearing, and tree trimming pay for themselves.
Document annually
A short walk-through video with narration, stored in the cloud, is enough for most claims. Do it once a year and after any major purchase.
Power safely
Portable generators outside only, 20+ feet from the house, never in a garage. Standby whole-home units require licensed installation to avoid back-feeding the grid.
When to call a professional
After any storm that leaves standing water, roof damage, or downed limbs on the structure — even if the damage looks cosmetic.
Quick answers
What belongs in a home go-bag?
72 hours of water, medications, chargers, insurance documents, cash, ID copies, and a printed contact list. Store it near an exit.
Should I board up windows before every storm?
No — only for named tropical systems or confirmed high-wind warnings. Impact film and storm shutters are better long-term options.