What If There’s a Storm and I Just Bought a Beach Home?
By Joe Zuba | Zuba Real Estate | Keller Williams Innovate
I’ve had a few calls over the years from clients in the middle of a storm asking what to do when their roof starts acting up or a few shingles take off in the wind.
It’s a fair question, and honestly, it happens. Living at the beach means learning that nature runs the show every now and then. When we first moved here, we didn’t realize that being in a house on stilts meant you can’t leave certain things on your balcony during a heavy, wind driven storm. I found that out the hard way after watching a set of outdoor chairs make their way down the street. Lesson learned, everything either gets tied down or brought in when the forecast turns.
Whether you live here full time or just bought an investment property for short term rentals, storms can catch you off guard. The good news is that what feels overwhelming the first time around quickly becomes manageable once you know what to expect.
Understanding Coastal Maintenance
Beach homes live a different kind of life. Salt air, humidity, and strong sun all leave their mark, and keeping up with maintenance is the best way to protect your investment. Pay attention to your roof, siding, decks, and windows, and don’t let small fixes slide. Clear out drains and gutters before hurricane season, and have someone check your HVAC regularly to keep it running properly in the salt air.
If your property is managed, ask your management company what they do for seasonal prep and post storm inspections. Many will secure outdoor furniture, check for leaks, and send you photos after a storm so you’re not guessing from miles away.
(As always, it’s worth calling a licensed contractor or professional for guidance specific to your property. Every coastal home is different, and local rules can vary from town to town.)
Have a Plan in Place
When a storm is on the way, preparation goes a long way. Make sure you know your evacuation route, have emergency contacts written down, and keep important documents stored digitally. Follow your town and county communication channels. Surf City, North Topsail Beach, and Pender and Onslow Counties all post regular updates during weather events.
If you rent your home out, talk with your property manager ahead of time about how they handle guest communication and cancellations. Having that plan in place before a storm ever forms makes things much easier later.
(It’s also a good idea to double check with your insurance agent or property manager about what they handle and what’s on you as the owner. Every policy and contract is a little different.)
Insurance and Flood Zones
Insurance is one of those things that really pays off when you’ve talked with the right people. Coastal policies are not one size fits all. Some homes need separate wind or flood coverage. Others might sit inside what’s known as a CBRA zone, which affects flood insurance availability.
The best step you can take is to sit down with a licensed insurance professional who understands coastal North Carolina. They’ll explain what you need, what your current coverage actually includes, and how to prepare before hurricane season rolls around.
If you’re planning renovations, additions, or even just a new roof, check with your local building department before you start. Town and county offices can tell you if elevation certificates, permits, or CAMA approvals are required, and it’s always better to ask first than to correct later.
(I always recommend reaching out to licensed insurance and legal professionals for specific questions about your home, coverage, or local regulations. It’ll save you time and help you make decisions with confidence.)
Protecting Your Investment When You’re Away
If your property is an investment home, think about it as both a getaway and a business. A good property manager will keep it in top shape between guests, handle storm prep, and check utilities after power outages. If you manage it yourself, build a list of trusted local contacts including a cleaner, a contractor, and a neighbor you trust to keep an eye on things when you can’t.
(If you’re not sure what’s allowed under your HOA or local ordinances, reach out to your town or property management association before arranging repairs or rentals.)
Don’t Let the Weather Scare You
Storms are part of life on the coast, but so are the calm mornings after, the sunsets that stop you mid conversation, and a community that always seems to look out for each other. Once you learn how to prepare and who to call, it becomes second nature.
A very large part of the experience when working with me is that I’ve lived here and dealt with many of these surprise issues myself. From small maintenance problems to storm related repairs, I’ve been through it firsthand. I love being transparent with my clients about what really happens here, even with the simplest things. Those weather ready door locks that look great in the store often don’t last a year in the salt air. It’s a perfect example of the balance between what we think we want in a coastal home versus what actually holds up in real life.
An added value of working with a local REALTOR® like me is that I partner with several trusted professionals in the area. Whether you need an insurance expert, a property manager, a reliable contractor, or someone to help evaluate storm related maintenance, I can connect you with the right people to make things just a little bit easier.
If you ever find yourself wondering what to do before or after a storm, know that help and guidance are right here. The best thing you can do is stay informed, work with licensed professionals, and use the local resources already in place to make sure your property stays protected year round.
This information is based on my own coastal living experience and work as a local REALTOR®. Every home and situation is different, so always talk with licensed contractors, insurance agents, or legal professionals before making decisions about your property.
#CoastalLiving #TopsailIsland #ZubaRealEstate #KellerWilliamsInnovate #InvestmentProperty #BeachHomeOwnership #NCRealEstate #ShortTermRentals #HurricanePrep
