We’ve been having crazy weather – fires out west, thunderstorms, tornados and “straight winds” seemingly everywhere else. One of the Gardner/Fox staff who lives in Downingtown had the roof of her house peeled back like a sardine can from straight winds last week. So, what should you do to protect yourself?

1. Check your homeowner’s insurance. Make sure you have enough property coverage and check to see if you have flood insurance. Ask your broker a lot of questions to make sure you have the coverage you think you need.
2. Prune your trees. Falling trees and limbs are a huge source of property damage.
3. Check your roof and gutters. Make sure you don’t have any leaks and that gutters are clear. Extend rain water leaders away from your house to avoid basement flooding.
4. Keep your yard picked up. Unsecured items can get blown around in high winds.
5. Check your sump pump and install a battery backup if your basement is prone to flooding.
6. Consider buying a generator if your area is prone to power outages.
7. Have a contingency plan in the event your home is damaged and you have to find temporary housing.