Phone answered 24/7 · Baltimore, MD and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (410) 237-0394
Patapsco River Water Damage HelpBaltimore, MD · Answered 24/7

How Do I Prepare My Home for Hurricane Season?

Last updated October 31, 2026

Call Now (410) 237-0394

The short answer

Inspect and Secure Your Property

Check your roof for loose or damaged shingles and secure them. Install storm shutters or board up windows to protect against high winds and flying debris. Trim trees and shrubs, removing dead branches that could become projectiles. Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and garbage cans so they do not get blown around and cause damage to your home or a neighbor's property.

Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure water can flow away from your home's foundation. This prevents overflow that can lead to roof leaks or basement flooding. Inspect your siding for cracks and seal them. If you live in Baltimore, keep your shutoff valve location written down. These proactive measures help minimize water intrusion during the heavy rains common with hurricanes.

Protect Your Home's Interior

Move furniture, rugs, electronics, and other valuables away from windows and doors, especially those on ground floors. Consider relocating important items to an upper floor or a high shelf. If you have an area prone to flooding, use sandbags or flood barriers at doorways, but know they only hold back minor water levels. This reduces the amount of property exposed to potential water damage.

Protect important documents by placing them in waterproof containers and storing them in a safe, elevated location. Make digital copies as a backup. Disconnect electrical appliances and electronics to prevent damage from power surges if flooding occurs. If you must evacuate, turning off your main power, water, and gas at the shutoff valves can prevent further hazards from broken lines.

  • Move electronics and valuables to upper floors.
  • Store documents in waterproof containers.
  • Disconnect appliances to prevent surge damage.
  • Use sandbags at low-lying doorways.
  • Know the locations of utility shutoffs.
  • Elevate furniture on blocks if possible.

Create an Emergency Plan and Kit

Develop a family communication plan that includes a meeting place and contact information. Decide in advance when you will evacuate and know your local evacuation routes. Identify a safe room in your home, such as a small interior room without windows, for sheltering during the storm. Practice your plan with all household members so everyone knows what to do when a hurricane warning is issued.

Assemble an emergency kit with enough supplies to last at least three days. Include non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio. Keep a portable charger for your phone. Having these items ready allows you to focus on safety during the storm and reduces the need to go out in dangerous conditions.

Address Basement and Ground-Level Risks

Basements and crawl spaces are highly vulnerable to flooding during hurricanes. Ensure your sump pump is working correctly by testing it and cleaning the pit. Consider installing a battery backup for the pump in case of a power outage. Seal any cracks in your foundation walls with hydraulic cement or a similar waterproof sealant to help keep water out.

Inspect the grading around your home to ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation. This directs rainwater runoff away from your property. Check that window wells are clear of debris and have covers. If you have a history of water issues, you might want to consult a plumber about installing a backwater valve to prevent sewer backup, a common problem during severe flooding.

If Water Damage Occurs

Despite your best preparations, water can still enter your home. If it does, act quickly to limit the damage. Remove as much standing water as you safely can and move wet items to a dry area. Ventilate the space by opening windows if it is safe, but do not use household fans if mold is a concern, as they can spread spores.

Water damage can compromise a home's structure and lead to mold. For thorough drying and to assess hidden moisture, local water damage pros use tools like moisture mapping and structural drying. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Contact your insurance company to report the damage and begin the claims process, documenting everything with photos before you clean up.

  • Remove standing water promptly.
  • Move wet belongings to dry air.
  • Ventilate, but avoid fans near potential mold.
  • Document all damage with photographs.
  • Contact your insurance provider.
  • Consider professional drying for hidden moisture.

Water damage does not wait

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

Call Now (410) 237-0394

Frequently asked questions

What should I do right after a hurricane passes?

First, ensure it is safe to go outside, watching for downed power lines. Document all damage with photos for your insurance. Begin removing wet items to prevent mold, but avoid electrical hazards. Contact your insurance company to start a claim. For extensive water, local water damage pros can provide emergency extraction and drying services.

How can I prevent mold after a flood?

Dry affected areas within 24 to 48 hours. Remove soaked porous materials like carpet and drywall. Increase airflow with fans and dehumidifiers. Wear protective gear like gloves and an N95 mask when handling wet materials. If you see or smell mold, or the area is large, a mold professional should assess it to ensure safe cleanup.

Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?

It depends on your specific policy. Most standard policies cover wind damage but may exclude flooding, which often requires separate flood insurance. Storm surge is typically considered flood damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy details before storm season and contact your agent with any questions.

Call Now (410) 237-0394