The start of hurricane season is just days away. That means a hurricane plan should be ready for all self-storage operations. The next step is to walk through the details of that plan to ensure that the business is ready for whatever comes in this hurricane season from June 1 to November 1.
- Gather and read hurricane plans and information.
- Review all insurance policy documents and connect with the insurance specialist to ask questions.
- Communicate regularly with all tenants.
- Inspect the property.
- Assess the business and ensure that all property is itemized and documented.
- Gather necessary supplies.
- Trim branches and remove debris.
- Create a plan to work remotely during and after the storm as needed.
Gather and read hurricane plans and information.
Every business along the Gulf Coast needs a detailed, written hurricane plan. This plan will include insurance information and preparations required to ensure the business is ready for hurricane season. The plan will have step-by-step instructions for all employees on how to maintain the property, supplies to keep on hand, and other details to safely navigate the season. Each year at the start of the season, all staff should familiarize themselves with the plan individually and prepare for their specific roles and responsibilities at work.
Review all insurance policy documents and connect with an insurance specialist to ask questions.
It is essential to understand the current insurance policy ahead of a storm. This may include a phone call to the agent to ask relevant questions and what steps to take if a storm comes through.
Communicate regularly with all tenants.
While renters insurance is not required, it is a good idea to have renters insurance as a tenant in self-storage. Encourage all tenants to secure renters’ insurance in the event of damage to the property during a storm.
- Provide information on renters’ insurance.
- Provide the plan for storm mitigation to tenants.
- Communicate often.
Inspect the property.
Did you know you can check for potential flood zones?
Here’s a handy tool from FEMA that may assist you in determining this.
https://msc.fema.gov/portal/search
Enter your address and find out your risk of flooding.
Next, consider a building inspection. Hiring an inspector can save you money, time, and frustration. An inspector will assess the potential for wind and other damage to your property. They can also recommend specific ways to protect your windows and doors from damage.
Look for areas of concern like low-hanging branches or other debris that could cause damage. Make necessary repairs and fix broken items.
Assess the business and ensure that all property is itemized and documented.
Renew all property photos annually, including exterior and interior images. Document the equipment inside that would need replacement in the event of a damaging storm. Be sure to back up all computer information and data so that it is not lost.
Gather necessary supplies.
- Items for boarding and sealing.
- Items for flood prevention like sandbags and plastic sheeting.
- TRash bags
- Squeegees and mops
- Bottled water
- Protective gear like gloves, masks, and boots
- Generator
- Extra fuel, batteries, and battery-powered lights
- Hand sanitizer and bottled water for washing hands if needed
Trim branches and remove debris.
Remove anything that would cause greater damage to the property or become a hazard during cleanup. Store exterior trash bins and flower planters inside.
Create a plan to work remotely during and after the storm as needed.
Be prepared to work remotely after the storm as needed. That means bringing anything home that is necessary for that task. Computers and relevant files would be helpful at home until power is restored after a big storm. This enables communication with tenants and insurance companies in the event of a crisis.
How to help
Community outreach is important during difficult times. If you were able to stock up on water or other supplies ahead of the storm, be prepared to share with the community in need and use it as a tax deduction in some states. Look for ways to be a helper. Contact your local emergency management office in advance of a storm and offer your business assistance after the storm. Your parking lot can make items easily accessible to residents for emergency management staff.
At Coastal Storage, we love the self-storage business. There are challenges every year when it’s hurricane season, but self-storage owners are well-equipped to navigate these issues. Call us today at 904-591-0140 to speak with our team of self-storage experts on your next investment.