As we face increasingly severe hurricanes due to climate change, it becomes critical to have a plan in place for post-storm recovery. We’ve updated our guide to incorporate new technologies and considerations that have emerged to enhance your efforts. 

Assemble Your Team 

Before embarking on a post-hurricane inspection, an Estate Manager should gather their team. Reach out to your service providers: call the insurance field agent, home inspector, contractors, electricians, plumbers, landscapers, and any specialty vendors like your generator company, pool service, or dock service. Include a cybersecurity expert in your team if you have a smart home with integrated systems. Flooding and power surges can compromise smart home devices, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities.

Not only will each team member bring their expertise to assess specific aspects of the property, but everyone can create their to-do lists. Having everyone in on the same walk-through can save hours of work and layers of confusion.

You’ll need a photographer, your primary houseman or facilities manager, and an admin assistant to handle the documentation process. The documentation team should follow along with the walkthrough, capturing notes and issues throughout the meeting. The facilities manager or houseman is on-hand to verify what’s normal and to assist in understanding and accessing operational systems.

Accurate documentation will be invaluable for insurance claims, property repairs, and future reference. Photograph and video everything; even things that don’t seem damaged at the time. The goal is a thorough record of the state of the property at that moment. In damaged areas, photograph, mark, measure, and document all issues in writing.

Address Utilities 

Before entering the property with your team, be sure to address utility issues. Check with the local utility companies for any advisories or outages and to see if services are active at your property. If your power is out, enlist the services of a certified professional to disconnect the home from the grid or electrical meter. Even if the broader area appears to have lost power, the risk of electrocution remains if neighboring generators are improperly connected to the grid. Never assume a power outage implies safety; always err on the side of caution.

Hurricane conditions can also compromise gas systems, potentially leading to hazardous leaks. Gas leaks are particularly dangerous, as even a minor spark can result in a devastating explosion. Report any suspicions or issues to the utility company. There are tools that can detect gasses and carbon monoxide that your plumber can bring to check for gasses during the walkthrough.

Check your generator thoroughly. Inspect for any visible damage, such as dents, cracks, or leaks. Ensure that the exhaust system and air intake are clear of debris, branches, or any obstructions. Your vendor should run a more detailed maintenance and fuel service as soon as possible to be prepared for the next use. Likewise, if you have solar panels or a home battery system, have a certified technician inspect them for damage and ensure they’re safely disconnected if necessary.  For properties with electric vehicle charging stations, have an EV specialist check for water damage and electrical integrity.

Also consider environmental concerns such as hazardous materials, fuels, or chemicals that may have been displaced or leaked during the hurricane. If any hazardous materials are discovered, consult with experts on their safe removal and disposal.

Assess Flooding 

Flooding often emerges as a prominent challenge in the aftermath of a hurricane. Delayed action can exacerbate damage, leading to mold growth, structural issues, and the deterioration of property and assets; it should be addressed immediately and thoroughly. Begin the inspection by assessing the extent of flooding and take immediate steps to prevent further water ingress. If necessary, shut off the main water line and refrain from using faucets and toilets until authorities confirm the integrity of water and sewage lines.

Floodwaters can carry harmful bacteria, pathogens, and chemicals. Direct contact can lead to skin rashes, gastrointestinal illnesses, or wound infections. Prioritize personal protective measures such as thorough handwashing and skin decontamination to mitigate the risk of bacterial spread. In cases where sewage has backed up into the property, exercise caution and utilize protective gear, including rubber boots, gloves, and goggles, during the cleanup process. Thoroughly disinfect any items that have come into contact with floodwaters.

Swift removal of any standing water is critical. Employ a sump pump to expedite this process; these devices can pump out up to 2,000 gallons per hour and often come equipped with battery backups for power outages. In specific scenarios, consider a gradual and ongoing water removal strategy, particularly for flooded crawl spaces, to maintain balanced pressure between the crawl space and the saturated ground.

Consider using advanced moisture detection technology, such as infrared cameras or moisture meters, to identify hidden water damage within walls and flooring.

Once your team is assembled on-site, prioritize safety. Hurricanes can leave behind a minefield of hazards, including downed power lines, unstable structures, and debris-strewn landscapes. Always ensure that the property is safe to enter and work within.

Exterior Inspection 

We typically go top-down for an exterior inspection. Utilize drone technology for a comprehensive aerial view of the property, especially for hard-to-reach areas like the roof or large estates.

Roof: Inspect the roof for signs of damage, including missing or damaged shingles or tiles, cracks, debris, and water accumulation. Check the flashing around chimneys, roof valleys, and gutters.

Siding and Exterior Walls: Check for cracks, dents, or loose siding. Look for signs of water penetration, such as peeling paint or staining, which may indicate leaks.

Windows and Doors: Examine all windows and doors for cracks, broken glass, and misalignment. Ensure that they open and close properly and look for moisture accumulation between double-paned glass, which is evidence of failure.

Foundation: Inspect the foundation for cracks or shifts. Any damage to the foundation can compromise the structural stability of the entire property. Include driveways and pool decks or patios in your foundation check.

Landscaping: Assess the condition of the landscaping, including trees, shrubs, irrigation systems, and any outdoor amenities. Remove fallen branches or debris that could cause further damage or block access. Inspect any green infrastructure elements like rain gardens or bioswales designed for stormwater management.

Your pool and spa team should be on-hand for this walkthrough, as their systems often connect with or are located near landscape systems. Remember to check the pool itself for structural damage. (Ask me about the $600,000 pool leak sometime.) Reset the water sensors and shut-off valves in your pump room when the area has been cleared.

Outdoor Tech: Check outdoor lighting, smart home devices, security cameras, and AV for damage and proper functioning. If available, have a copy of your wiring plans on-hand so that digging and repairs don’t cause more damage to your outdoor systems.

Wildlife: Be vigilant for the presence of unwanted wildlife, especially in and around the property. Floodwaters can introduce alligators, snakes, and other creatures into the vicinity. They are most likely in a heightened state of defense and may be aggressive.

Interior Inspection 

Next, move your inspection indoors. Room-to-room works best, starting on the upper floors or attic space. Keep coming back to the upper floors to check for settling and water trails. Here’s what you’re looking for:

Structural Integrity: Examine walls, ceilings, and floors for signs of water damage, cracks, or shifting. Pay special attention to load-bearing walls and columns, as their integrity is crucial to the property’s stability.

Electrical Systems: Inspect the electrical system for damage, exposed wires, or water infiltration. Ensure that all electrical appliances and outlets are functioning properly. If you suspect any electrical issues, contact a licensed electrician for further assessment.

Plumbing: Check for leaks or burst pipes. Test all faucets, toilets, and drainage systems to ensure they are functioning as intended. Address any plumbing issues promptly to prevent water damage.

HVAC Systems: Verify that the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are in working order. You’ll need to schedule ongoing HVAC monitoring after a hurricane, as the high humidity, even temporarily, in the ducts can lead to rapid mold growth.

Appliances and Fixtures: Test all appliances, such as refrigerators, stoves, and washing machines, to ensure they are operational. Inspect plumbing fixtures for leaks or damage.

Water Intrusion: Start with a thorough check for water intrusion. Inspect ceilings, walls, and floors for signs of water damage, including stains, warping, or mold growth. Address any immediate water removal and drying needs.

Smart Home Systems: Thoroughly check all smart home devices, including thermostats, security systems, and voice-controlled assistants, for water damage or malfunctions.

Air Quality Assessment: Use air quality monitors to check for mold spores, VOCs, and other pollutants that may have increased due to flooding or humidity.

Document Preservation: If you have a home office or important document storage, assess any water damage to papers and consider digital backup solutions for the future.

Specialty Areas: In luxury estates, there may be specialty areas that require unique attention. Wine cellars, safe rooms, server rooms, and security should be thoroughly inspected by their respective vendors.

Restoration and Monitoring 

Based on the findings of your inspection, develop a comprehensive restoration plan. Prioritize tasks based on safety and urgency. Every member of your inspection team will need to submit a report of their assessment, recommendations, and price quotes. These, once compiled, will serve as the basis for your restoration plan. 

Implement a digital tracking system for repairs and ongoing monitoring, which can help streamline the process and provide better documentation for insurance purposes. Remember to take photos and videos of all work progress; you’ll want that for your final insurance walk-through post- restoration.

After repairs are complete, establish a schedule for ongoing monitoring. Hurricane damage can have long-term effects that may not be immediately apparent in all areas. Regular checks and ongoing documentation will help identify any latent issues. 

Future Planning

The aftermath of a hurricane presents not just challenges, but opportunities for innovation in your estate management strategies. As you implement inspection and recovery protocols, consider how each aspect of the property could be reimagined for enhanced resilience. 

Consider upgrades like impact-resistant windows, reinforced roofing, or elevating critical systems to better withstand future hurricanes. Assess your property’s vulnerability to future climate-related events and consider long-term adaptation strategies. Perhaps that vulnerable shoreline becomes the site of a cutting-edge living shoreline project, or the traditional backup generator is replaced with a Tesla Powerwall system integrated with expanded solar capabilities. 

By viewing post-hurricane recovery as a chance to incorporate new standards, estate managers can transform these events from mere setbacks into catalysts for groundbreaking property enhancements.