Weather forecasters have predicted 15 named storms this hurricane season, eight of which have the potential to develop into strong hurricanes with a chance of impacting Florida.

Of course, nothing can be done to stop a hurricane from coming, but property managers and owners of apartment communities can make advanced preparations to ensure quick repairs and to maximize the safety of their residents.

Property Manager’s Hurricane Checklist:

• Review insurance policies for any new clauses. For example, some companies no longer cover homes that have been vacant for more than 30 days.
• Become familiar with insurance deductibles for all claims.
• Make sure the insurance policy includes Law and Ordinance (Code Upgrade) provisions.
• Establish a relationship with a disaster contractor.
• Encourage renters to purchase renter’s insurance.
• Check vacant units prior to the storm, and shut off their power and water.
• Keep an updated list of disabled residents and their addresses.
• Distribute a list of hurricane preparedness guidelines for residents; include evacuation plans.
• Make sure shrubs and trees are trimmed to reduce potential debris.
• If a swimming pool is on property, place pool furniture in it.

Be Prepared – Weather . . . or Not

Disaster contractors are a valuable resource when severe weather strikes. Damaged roofs and walls, broken windows, flooding and mold all require contractors with different expertise, but disaster contractors can bundle all these services – even coordinating multiple sub-contractors for their clients, if needed – thereby removing extra unnecessary hassle from an already stressful time.

Restoration companies and disaster contractors specialize in catastrophe management, and they are the first to respond if damage is reported. But, it’s critical to establish a relationship with a reputable contractor before severe weather strikes.

For example, Coastal Reconstruction Group – a Florida-based disaster contractor – offers Rapid Response, a program that is cost-free to owners and property managers. As part of this particular service, crews arrive onsite within four hours of reported damage to assess any immediate need (boarding up windows, installing a roof tarp and doing anything necessary to stop water penetration) – regardless of the magnitude of the loss. If mold appears to be an issue, the team mitigates water damage begins installing dehumidifiers and dryers. Coastal Reconstruction Group representatives then will meet with the homeowner and his adjuster on-site to agree on a scope of work and price that will restore the property to its previous condition.

Of course, Rapid Response is just one example. All disaster contractors will provide different types of reconstruction services. So, begin researching now and enroll for appropriate services, so that you can ride out the upcoming storm season with confidence.

Follow these five general steps when working with a contractor:

• Obtain everything in writing – including estimates, contracts and any guarantees.
• Request a list of references.
• Ask for proof of insurance and make certain that the company employs licensed contractors.
• If all repairs are not covered under the insurance policy, make any final payments after the work is completed.
• Obtain a local building permit, if necessary.

Ben Zeigler is an account executive for Coastal Reconstruction Group. Coastal Reconstruction Group’s Rapid Response services provide post-disaster damage repair to residential and commercial structures throughout the Southeastern U.S. For more information, or to sign up for Coastal Reconstruction Group’s Rapid Response service, please call (877) 708-5501 or visit the web site at www.coastalreconstruction.com.