How to Prepare Your Home for Spring Storms: AAA and IBHS Tips for Homeowners

Spring brings blooming flowers and warmer temperatures, but it also marks the start of severe thunderstorm season. For homeowners, preparing for spring storms is essential to help reduce the risk of wind, hail and water damage. High winds, large hail and tornadoes regularly threaten communities across the country, causing billions of dollars in property damage each year.

To help homeowners prepare, AAA – The Auto Club Group has joined forces with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) to share practical spring storm preparation tips that can help protect your home and property. Preparing your home now, before storms develop, can make a significant difference in limiting damage and helping your family stay safe. Here are a few simple steps homeowners can take now to prepare for severe weather.

How should you prepare your home for severe thunderstorms?

Routine maintenance and a few proactive steps can go a long way in helping your home withstand severe weather.

Create a severe weather emergency plan

Severe storms often develop quickly, leaving little time to react. Having a plan ensures your family knows what to do when warnings are issued.

• Emergency contacts: Compile a list of emergency contacts that can be quickly accessed and stored in a waterproof container. Include family members, neighbors, utility companies and your insurance agent.
• Safe shelter: Identify the safest place in your home to shelter during severe weather. Interior rooms on the lowest level, such as a basement or interior bathroom, are ideal.
• Emergency kit: Assemble an emergency kit with bottled water, non‑perishable food, flashlights, batteries and first‑aid supplies.
• Contact points: Establish meeting locations in case family members become separated.
• Emergency alerts: Enable wireless emergency alerts on your phone and follow local weather updates.

Planning ahead is especially important during tornado season, when residents may have only minutes to take shelter once a warning is issued.

Inspect and maintain your roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against severe weather. Schedule an annual inspection with a licensed roofing professional who can check for loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing, deteriorating seals around vents or chimneys and any signs of leaks.

Clean gutters and improve drainage

Proper drainage helps protect your home during heavy spring rains. Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts so water flows freely away from the house.

Trim trees and secure outdoor items

• Trim branches that hang over your roof or near power lines
• Remove dead or diseased trees
• Secure patio covers, awnings and carports
• Store ladders, grills or moveable items in a garage or shed

Parking vehicles in a garage or covered area can also help prevent hail damage during storms.

What insurance coverage do homeowners need for storm damage?

Review your homeowners insurance policy

Spring is a good time to review your homeowners insurance policy with a licensed agent to ensure your coverage still meets your needs. Your agent can explain what is covered, review deductibles and identify any coverage limits. It’s also a good time to ask about flood insurance, which is not included in standard homeowners policies and may require a waiting period before coverage begins.

AAA Insurance also recommends contacting a licensed AAA Insurance agent for a free policy review through the AAA Triple Check^® (not available in Colorado). This review helps ensure coverage reflects lifestyle changes and that homeowners receive the best rate and available discounts. The AAA Triple Check^® is available to everyone, including homeowners not currently insured by AAA Insurance. Learn more at AAA.com/Insurance.

Create a home inventory

A home inventory can make filing an insurance claim significantly easier if your property is damaged. Walk through your home using your smartphone or camera and document major possessions. Also, research available mobile apps that make the home inventory process easier. Be sure to include descriptions, estimated values and purchase dates when possible.

Simple home improvements that increase storm resilience

Consider impact‑resistant roofing materials

If your roof is due for replacement, choosing impact-resistant materials designed to withstand wind and hail can help reduce damage during severe storms.

Check your garage door’s wind rating

Garage doors are often the largest opening in a home, and one of the most vulnerable areas during strong storms. A properly wind‑rated garage door can help prevent structural damage.

Install whole‑home surge protection

Lightning and power surges frequently accompany thunderstorms. Whole‑home surge protection can help safeguard appliances and electronics.

Take action now to stay storm ready

Severe weather is unpredictable, but preparation can help reduce risks to your home and family. By following guidance from AAA and IBHS, homeowners can take simple steps now to reduce potential storm damage and better navigate the insurance process if severe weather strikes. Taking a little time to prepare today can help protect your home, your belongings and your peace of mind when the next storm arrives.

For more severe weather tips check out our other guides:

• AAA Weather Preparedness Guides
• Thunderstorm Ready Home Emergency Guide
• Annual Hurricane Ready Home Prep Guide
• Home Prep as a Hurricane Approaches