Southeastern Connecticut and Southern Rhode Island get their share of weather. Nor'easters are a regular part of the coastal calendar, and the occasional hurricane or tropical storm reminds everyone how exposed the coast can be. When you own a second home, the hard part is that you are often not there when the forecast turns. A short, repeatable checklist helps you prepare the house quickly, whether you are standing in the driveway or planning it from far away.
This list is general. Always follow local emergency guidance, and never put yourself at risk to protect a house.
When a Storm Is on the Way
Pay attention to the forecast a few days out. Wind, heavy rain, and coastal flooding each affect a house differently, and a house near the water faces different risks than one set back in the woods. If you are not nearby, decide early who can do the preparation for you.
Outside the House
Most storm damage starts with something loose, so the outside gets the most attention.
- Bring in or tie down porch furniture, cushions, umbrellas, grills, planters, and decorations
- Store trash cans, garden tools, and hoses in a garage or shed
- Bring in boats, kayaks, and paddleboards if you can, or secure them well
- Check that gutters and downspouts are clear so water drains away from the house
- Look over the roof, shutters, and siding for loose pieces before the wind arrives
- Take down or secure flags, wind chimes, and anything attached to the house that could come loose
- Note any large limbs hanging over the roof or driveway, and be mindful that wet, windy weather can bring them down
- Close and latch storm shutters if you have them
Inside the House
- Check that all windows and doors are closed and locked, including the garage and basement doors
- Move valuables and important papers away from windows and low areas
- Charge phones and any backup power you rely on if you are on site
- Take photos of each room and the exterior, so you have a clear record of the house's condition before the storm
Think About the Basement and Low Areas
Shore properties can take on water from heavy rain and storm surge.
- Raise items stored on the floor of the basement or garage
- Make sure the sump pump is working and the discharge line is clear
- Check that floor drains are open
- Move electronics and anything sensitive off the floor
Power and Heat
Storms often bring outages. If you will be away, think about what a loss of power would mean for the house.
- Know where your electrical panel and main water valve are, so a helper can find them
- If the house has a sump pump, think about whether it will keep working without power
- In cold weather, a long outage can cause problems in an empty house, so it is worth thinking through the plan in advance
Whenever you are unsure about electrical, fuel, or generator safety, ask a qualified professional.
After the Storm
Once it is safe to go outside, take a careful look.
- Walk the exterior from a safe distance and look for downed limbs, damaged shingles, siding, and trim
- Check windows and doors for damage, and look at the foundation and basement for signs of water
- Check gutters, drainage, and the area near the foundation
- Inside, look for leaks, stains, damp spots, or odors, and check the sump pump and heating system status
- Take photos of everything you find, with the date, for your own records
Report anything serious to the right contractor promptly, and keep your dated photos together in one place.
Do Not Wait for the Next Forecast
The most useful thing you can do is decide ahead of time who will prepare the house and who will check it afterward. Write down the plan, share it, and keep contact information for your contractors in one place. The decision is much easier when the sky is clear.
How Tide & Timber Can Help
Tide & Timber is a home watch team based in Stonington, serving second and seasonal homes across Southeastern CT and Southern RI. We are an NHWA Accredited Member, and we are bonded and insured. Before a storm, our team can check that doors and windows are locked and bring in outdoor items. Afterward, we do a visual check with photos, including the roof, siding, downed limbs, drainage, heat, and sump pump status, and we can usually respond the same day or next day. If something needs attention, we let you know right away and, with your OK, coordinate the right contractor. If a claim may be needed, we can connect you with a claims consultant.
If you would like a plan in place before the next storm, request a consultation or see how our home watch services work.
