Tropical Storm Arthur—a Reminder That Hurricane Season Has Begun

Here in the Northeast, it is easy to feel somewhat removed from hurricanes and serious tropical storms. They are less common in our region than in the Southeast or along the Gulf Coast. However, history has shown that storms can and do make their way north, sometimes with significant impacts. Events like Tropical Storm Irene and Superstorm Sandy remind us that even weakened systems can still bring heavy rain, strong winds, and power outages to our area.

At Murphy Insurance Agency, we understand how busy life gets. It is human nature to put off maintenance projects and planning. A little attention now can go a long way toward helping protect your home and making things easier if a storm does head our way later this summer or fall.

Prepare Now for What You Can’t Do Later

In the days leading up to a storm, there is only so much you can do. The real value comes from taking care of the bigger items ahead of time, before anything is on the radar.

1. Evaluate Trees and Remove Potential Hazards

• Take a close look at trees near your property, driveway, or power lines
• Consider removing trees that are leaning, damaged, diseased, or could threaten your home in high winds
• Trim back overhanging branches and remove dead or weak limbs

2. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof

• Look for missing, loose, or damaged shingles
• Address any areas that could allow water intrusion
• Schedule repairs with a professional if needed, as contractors often book up quickly during storm season

3. Improve Drainage and Water Protection

• Make sure gutters and downspouts are working properly and directing water away from your property
• Address grading issues so water flows away from your foundation
• Test your sump pump and consider adding a battery backup

4. Review Windows, Doors, and Structural Vulnerabilities

• Identify older or weaker windows and doors that may need reinforcement or replacement
• Evaluate your garage door, which is a common failure point in high winds
• Consider longer-term solutions like storm-rated upgrades if appropriate

5. Take Time to Review Your Insurance Coverage

• It can be helpful to revisit your homeowner/property policy and refresh your understanding of what it covers
• If your property is in a coastal area, you may have a separate wind deductible for named storms such as hurricanes
• Flood insurance is a separate policy, so it is worth understanding what it does and does not cover
• Keeping a simple home inventory can make things easier if you ever need to file a claim

A Season to Stay Aware, Not Alarmed

Hurricane season runs through November 30. While most years do not bring major storms to the Northeast, it only takes one event to disrupt the region. Taking care of a few of these larger items now can make a meaningful difference later.

When a storm is a few days away, you can focus on the smaller tasks, knowing that the important groundwork is already in place. It is also a good time of year to revisit your insurance coverage and ask any questions, since once a storm is named, carriers typically restrict coverage changes for that event.

If you have questions or would like to review your coverage, the team at Murphy Insurance Agency is always here to help.