Living in DeLand gives us so much to appreciate, from beautiful tree-lined neighborhoods and historic homes to the pride that comes with living in one of Central Florida’s most welcoming communities. But as every longtime Florida resident knows, hurricane season is something homeowners cannot afford to overlook.
Each year, storms remind us how quickly weather can change. The best time to prepare your home is long before the first tropical alert appears on your phone.
As a home inspector serving DeLand and the surrounding area, I often see small issues that may seem harmless now but can become costly problems during a storm. A loose shingle, clogged gutter, worn door seal, or poor drainage area may not stand out on a calm afternoon, but heavy rain and strong winds can quickly expose those weaknesses.
Start with the roof. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Look for missing shingles, damaged flashing, soft spots, or signs of age. Even a minor opening can allow water intrusion during wind-driven rain.
Next, inspect windows and doors. Make sure they close securely, latch properly, and have no visible gaps. If you have shutters, test them now instead of waiting until a storm is approaching. If you do not have storm protection, it may be worth exploring options before the season ramps up.
Water management is equally important. Summer storms in DeLand can bring intense rainfall in a short amount of time. Clean gutters and downspouts, and make sure water flows away from your home. Walk your property after a heavy rain and note any low spots where water tends to collect.
Do not forget the yard. Trim limbs hanging over the house, remove dead branches, and secure outdoor furniture or décor. During high winds, loose items can become dangerous quickly.
Inside the home, test smoke detectors, check GFCI outlets, and consider surge protection for electronics and appliances. Power outages and surges are common during severe weather.
Most importantly, do not wait until a storm is in the forecast. Preparation is always easier, calmer, and more affordable when done ahead of time.
A professional home inspection can help identify issues you may not notice on your own, from hidden roof concerns to drainage problems and structural vulnerabilities.
In a community like DeLand, where we take pride in our homes and neighborhoods, protecting what matters most is always worth the effort. A little preparation now can bring peace of mind all season long.
For trusted, thorough service and peace of mind before storm season or anytime of year, reach out to me, Jeff Schimming, for all of your home inspection needs.
