Roofing Law

Hurricane Preparedness for Roofers

During hurricane season, homeowners and construction business owners alike must be sure that they are prepared to handle the fierce winds and torrential downpours that can wreak havoc on a home or place of business.

Are you confident that your employees and your facility are prepared if a hurricane were to make landfall in your state? Review your hurricane plans and contact a roofing lawyer in Florida if you have any legal roofing questions.

Communicate With Your Team

Hurricane preparedness meetings are an effective way to prepare your team for severe weather. In these meetings, you can share the potential impact that hurricanes can have on people as well as on jobsites. Inform them of the proper National Weather Service (NWS) terms used to describe weather conditions, evacuation plans, and emergency communication plans. Develop a written hurricane plan and designate key people that will carry out certain hurricane preparations before, during, and after a hurricane.

Confirm Insurance Coverage

Some business owners assume that their insurance will fully cover them during a hurricane, but you need to be certain that your insurance covers more than just the structure. Does your insurance cover flooding? If not, it is worth the added costs to protect your facility.

Protect Important Information

It is also crucial to protect important documents and information. Backup or seal important information such as contracts, taxes, insurance, and accounting records to avoid water damage. Relocate documents to an off-site location as well.

Prepare Your Facility

Protect major equipment and furnishings by tying them down or storing them in well-protected areas of the jobsite. Remove items off-site as necessary. Strongly anchor portable storage buildings, create a plan for water removal, and ensure rooftop equipment is securely fastened or strapped down to the roof deck. Also, remove loose gravel to avoid damage to windows and turn off electrical power, gas, water, and other utility services within your building.

After communicating with your employees or independent contractors and securing your facility, speak with a roofing attorney in Florida if you have any legal questions about handling warranties or claims that can surface after a storm.

If you would like to speak with a knowledgeable roofing attorney in Florida, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.