Hurricane Season Prep for Jackson-Area Property Owners

Jackson sits a few hours inland, but hurricanes and tropical storms still reach us. They arrive with heavy rain, strong wind, and flash flooding. Most of the damage we repair after a storm comes from water getting in and from trees and debris coming down. Most of it can be reduced with some preparation before the season peaks.

Know your property's real risks

Look up your property on FEMA's flood maps, and think back to how past storms affected your street. Low-lying lots, homes near creeks and the Pearl River, and buildings with poor drainage take on water first. Large trees within falling distance of the roof are the other big risk.

Make a simple plan

• Decide where you will go if you need to leave, and how you will get there.
• Keep emergency contacts written down, not just stored in your phone.
• Agree on how your household will check in if cell service goes down.
• For a business or rental, know who will check the property after the storm.

Protect against wind

• Have loose or damaged shingles, flashing, and gutters repaired before the season, not after.
• Trim dead limbs and branches that hang over the roof, power lines, or driveway.
• Brace or upgrade weak garage doors, which often fail first in high wind.
• Bring in or tie down patio furniture, grills, signs, and trash cans before a storm arrives.

Reduce flood and water damage

• Clear gutters, downspouts, and drains so water moves away from the foundation.
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building, and fix low spots that hold water.
• Raise electrical equipment and appliances in crawl spaces and garages where you can.
• Keep sandbags or water barriers on hand for doors and low openings.

Supplies to have ready

Keep at least three days of water and non-perishable food on hand. Add flashlights and a battery or hand-crank radio, a first aid kit and needed medications, some cash in small bills, and basic tools for shutting off utilities. Store them together in a waterproof bin.

Check your insurance now

Read your policy before a storm, not after. Standard homeowner and commercial policies usually do not cover flood damage; that typically requires separate flood coverage, which often has a waiting period before it takes effect. Take photos and video of your property and its contents now, and store copies of your policies somewhere you can reach from your phone.

After the storm

• Stay away from downed power lines and standing water.
• Check for structural damage and gas smells before going back inside.
• Photograph all damage before you clean up, for your insurance claim.
• Stop further damage with tarps and water removal, and keep your receipts.
• Call your insurance company promptly to open a claim.

If a storm damages your roof, siding, fencing, or interior, our storm and insurance repair team can secure the property, document the damage, and make the repairs.