We’re still in mid-winter, but it won’t be long before spring beckons across the southeast. One of the new season’s calling cards will be an increase in adverse weather conditions, as warm fronts typically bring storms, some of them severe. 

Any type of bad weather might cause damage to your home, depending on the conditions. You also can’t assume that just because one storm caused no damage at all, that a similar occurrence won’t cause a big problem. That’s why your homeowners insurance will provide coverage to help you repair your dwelling in case of most occurrences of weather-related damage. 

Still, having home insurance alone won’t make your home any more secure against severe weather; it will just help you pick up the pieces after damage occurs. It’s up to every homeowner to do all they can to prepare the property for springtime weather, and here are just a few tips to keep in mind. 

1. Take Care of Any Roof Maintenance Expediently 

If your roof has any missing shingles, holes or other damage, then it will not be able to fully withstand the full brunt of the storm. That’s why it’s important to make roof repairs while the weather is good, rather than waiting until it is too late. 

2. Clean Out Your Gutters 

Your gutters and drainage systems are what help direct rainwater away from your home. If they are clogged or damaged, then they won’t be able to do what they are meant to do. Maintaining your gutters can help you avoid a lot of water damage. 

3. Repair Your Window Screens and Storm Shutters 

A home’s window screens, locks and shutters are meant to help keep hazardous materials out of the home and keep you safe inside. If they are broken or damaged, then you could be opening your home to a lot more severe damage if high winds ever beckon. 

4. Cut Back Dead Foliage 

Branches that overhang your home, overgrown shrubbery or dead trees could be disasters waiting to happen when storms approach. They might become airborne projectiles if high winds pick them up. Or worse, they might fall onto your home, causing significant damage in the midst of severe weather. To prevent these risks from becoming too severe, make sure you perform regular landscaping around the home. 

While your homeowners insurance will provide assistance in case your home sustains storm damage, there are limits to every policy. For example, floods won’t be covered, nor will any damage that was due to normal wear and tear, or that could have been prevented otherwise. Therefore, the more you do to prevent storm damage, the less of a burden that you put on your homeowners insurer. In the end, practical safety will make certain that you can maximize your policy benefits when you need them.