August 20, 2024

As a vacation home owner on the beautiful Charleston coast, ensuring your property is ready for hurricane season is crucial. Not only does it protect your investment, but this prep ensures the safety and comfort of your guests. At Deserving Vacations, we’ve built a reputation for creating five-star experiences for vacationers year-round. These efforts have given us a deep understanding of protecting one’s investment during hurricane season and beyond.

1. Conduct a property assessment.

Begin with a thorough inspection of your property’s exterior. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose shingles, damaged siding or cracks in the foundation. Ensure all outdoor furniture, grills and other items are secure or easily storable in the event of a storm. Next, check the interior of your home for any leaks or water damage. Inspect windows and doors for proper sealing to prevent water infiltration. Ensure all emergency exits are clear and easily accessible.

2. Update Your Emergency Kit

Your guests may rely on your local knowledge. Your (and property management partner’s) understanding of hurricane season safety measures will be crucial to creating peace of mind for renters. This means having a well-stocked emergency kit is essential. Include items such as:

• First-aid supplies

• Flashlights and batteries

• Blankets and clothing

• Basic tools and a fire extinguisher

• Clear and easy access to the kit's location and contents

For more details on what to include, please review the National Weather Service’s emergency supply kit guide.

3. Review Insurance Policies

Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date and adequate for hurricane-related damage. Review your policy details, including coverage limits and exclusions. It’s also a good idea to have a list of important contact numbers, including your insurance company, ready and accessible.

4. Prepare Your Landscaping

Trim trees and shrubs around your property to minimize the risk of falling branches during high winds. Remove any dead or weak trees that could pose a threat. Secure any loose landscaping items or ornaments to prevent them from causing damage if wind speeds pick up.

5. Install Storm Shutters and Reinforce Windows

Storm shutters are a smart investment for protecting your property, particularly for single-family homes. If already installed, ensure they are in good condition and easy to deploy. For properties without storm shutters, consider using plywood to board up windows and doors. Reinforce garage doors and any other vulnerable entry points.

6. Develop an Evacuation Plan

Create a clear and concise evacuation plan for your guests. Include detailed instructions on how to leave the property, the location of local shelters and emergency contact numbers. Provide this information in multiple locations, such as in a welcome binder and posted on the refrigerator.

7. Regular Maintenance and Checks

Perform regular maintenance checks on all essential systems, including HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems. Ensure that your sump pump, if you have one, is in good working order and that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris.

Preparing your rental property for hurricane season is essential to protect your investment and ensure the safety of your guests. By following these steps and partnering with a professional vacation rental management company, you can rest easy knowing your property is in good hands. Whether near or far, having a dedicated team to manage and protect your property makes all the difference.

Discover History in the Heart of the Lowcountry

Founded in 2009, Deserving Vacations property management has welcomed over 28,000 individual guest reservations across our diverse portfolio of properties and garnered thousands of 5-star reviews. Curious to learn more about Isle of Palms or have specific questions? Don't hesitate to reach out to us! You can contact Deserving Vacations at 843-906-1227, email us at nathan@deservingvacations.com, or use the convenient contact form located at the bottom of our website. Join us on this exciting journey as we continue to redefine excellence in the vacation rental industry!