4 Tips to Prepare Your Rental Property for the Tornado Season

Do you know the 2024 tornado season was the second-worst season on record? That year, the U.S. recorded about 1,735 tornadoes, which took the lives of 53 people.  It isn’t just the loss of life. Strong, gusty winds tear apart homes that cost thousands to repair. 

This year’s tornado season is not far off. March will come in the blink of an eye, and the tornado season will strike. Now, the question is: is your rental property prepared to weather the storm? If not, now is the time to prepare it. 

Tornadoes can appear out of nowhere, wreak havoc, and be gone in minutes. Before the first storm warning rolls in, there is a lot you can do to minimize the damage and keep your tenants safe. 

Curious how? Keep reading—we’ve got practical tips to help you prepare your rental property for the tornado season. 

#1 Reinforce Garage Doors

Weak windows and doors cause mayhem when there is a tornado, right? That is why they are usually at the top of the to-do list when prepping a property.

But how often do we think about garage doors? Not enough. 

InterNACHI reports that high winds from tornadoes can damage garage doors. And if wind enters the garage, it can pressurize the interior and blow the roof off. 

The National Institute of Standards and Technology found that 90% of homes that were damaged during winds up to 135 miles per hour started with garage doors falling. 

Don’t skip inspecting your garage door. If it isn’t sturdy, retrofit it with a bracing kit. These kits are easy to install and can make a world of difference when the winds pick up. 

However, if your door is older or just plain flimsy, it might be time to replace it. Opt for a wind-rated model. "A wind-rated garage door can safeguard your home from pressurization damage", says U.S. News & World Report. 

#2 Trim Damaged or Dangerous Trees and Branches

Got big trees around your property? They are great for shade and curb appeal. But when tornado season hits, the branches can turn into flying projectiles in no time. 

High winds don’t mess around. Weak or dead branches, or even entire trees, can snap off and cause serious damage to roofs, windows, and cars. Or worse, they could injure your tenant, neighboring homes, or vehicles. 

Still not convinced? Last year, a dozen tornadoes tore through North Arkansas and caused significant damage. 

Take the case of a Rogers resident, Carolyn Eiler. Her home was severely damaged when an enormous tree toppled on top of it. The tree poked through the roof and ceiling of her living room and kitchen. This is where things get serious. If your tenant or neighbors end up in a similar situation, they can initiate legal action against you. 

A Rogers personal injury lawyer can help them understand their rights. They will also guide them through the legal process and fight for compensation to cover damages, injuries, and the stress of it all. This can take a hit on your finances. 

According to Keith Law Group, personal injury claims entitle victims to claim compensation for costly surgeries or therapies. The amount may go even higher in case of a wrongful death on your property. 

This may put you in a difficult financial situation as an owner. To save yourself from such an ordeal, take a walk around the property. Look for branches hanging over roofs, dead limbs, or trees that seem unstable. 

If you spot anything concerning, don’t DIY unless you’re a pro with a chainsaw. Call a professional tree service to trim or remove those hazards safely.

#3 Install a Storm Shelter

Tornadoes strike fast and often without warning. Your property must have a designated safe space, so tenants can seek shelter. 

The Emergency Medical Services Authority considers the basement or storm shelter underground the safest place to seek shelter during a tornado. 

If your property doesn’t already have one, install a storm shelter. These structures are tough and designed to handle extreme winds and flying debris. Your tenants will be safe from the damaging weather conditions. 

Storm shelters come in various styles, from underground bunkers to above-ground units. The best option depends on your property layout. 

If space is tight, an above-ground shelter in a garage or backyard can be a great choice. Have a larger property? An underground shelter might be perfect.

Regardless of what you choose, Angi says that both offer protection from tornadoes and other types of extreme weather conditions. 

Image by LaDonna / Adobestock

#4 Review Your Insurance Coverage

The speed of tornadic winds can be as high as 300 mph—that is fast enough to tear homes apart like they are made of paper. 

It makes sense to review your property insurance policy before the tornado season. 

Look for coverage that includes wind damage, roof repairs, and debris cleanup. And don’t forget about things like outbuildings, fences, or other exterior structures on your property. Double-check for any exclusions or limits that could leave you vulnerable. 

Got personal belongings covered? Probably not, since that is on your tenants. Remind them to get renters insurance—it’ll save both of you some headaches.

Preparing your rental property for tornado season isn’t just about protecting your investment. It’s about keeping people safe. These steps might seem like a lot of work. But they are far less costly than dealing with major storm damage. 

Don’t wait until the warning signs blare. Take action now to avoid future stress. 

By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Pexels & Adobestock