The Property Manager’s Guide to Post Storm Inspections

Why Post‑Storm Inspections Matter

Storms may pass in a matter of hours, but the damage they leave behind can quickly intensify over days or even hours if left unattended. According to FEMA, about 40% of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood claims come from properties located outside federally designated high-risk flood zones, a reminder that many flood maps are outdated or don’t account for intense rainfall and shifting development patterns, and thus flood threats exist well beyond mapped areas.

Moisture infiltration is a chronic issue across building stock post storm. Research indicates that over 75% of building envelope failures affecting foundations, walls, roofs, and windows are caused by excess moisture. Such failures can lead to structural degradation, mold growth, and health hazards.

Taken together, these findings underscore a critical reality for property managers: post storm inspections are not optional, but foundational to protecting property value, ensuring resident safety, and reducing long-term cost.

The Post‑Storm Inspection Checklist: What PropertyManagers Should Prioritize

Below is a research-backed checklist to guide your post storm inspections and help you minimize risks and avoid escalating repair costs:

1. Prioritize Roofs and Gutters
The roof and drainage systems are your property’s first defense against water intrusion. Damaged shingles, loose flashing, or clogged gutters can quickly result in leaks that compromise insulation, drywall, electrical systems, and foundations.

2. Identify Water Intrusion Points
Leaks aren’t always visible. Cracks around windows, doors, vents, and flashing are common entry points for water, which can lead to mold growth, compromised finishes, and electrical damage.

3. Assess Landscaping and Drainage Systems
Storms can alter grading and block drainage channels. Inspect for accumulated debris, standing water, and erosion. Ensuring proper water flow away from foundations is essential to prevent long-term damage.

4. Inspect Exterior Structures and Shared Spaces
Don’t neglect HVAC units, sheds, fences, outdoor lighting, and common areas. Loose panels, exposed wiring, or debris buildup can pose safety risks and cause service disruptions.

Lessen’s Proven Response Capabilities

While pre-storm plans and inspections are helpful, post-storm action is critical.  If your team needs help with planning or execution, Lessen’s platform is built on readiness, execution, and scale.

When storms strike, Lessen delivers. Recent recovery performance includes:

• Hurricane Ian (2022):

  
  • 17,000+ work orders created

  • Over 90% completed within 6 months
• Hurricane Helene (September 2024):

  
  • 6,800+ work orders created

  • Over 90% completed in just 4 months
• Hurricane Milton (October 2024):

  
  • 27,000+ work orders created

    
  • Over 95% completed within 6 months

These outcomes reflect more than responsiveness, they reflect preparation. Lessen’s success during high-impact storm events is the result of coordinated planning, streamlined dispatch, and clear communication across national portfolios.

How Lessen Helps You Plan Ahead

Lessen’s disaster readiness strategy is designed to reduce downtime, minimize damage, and simplify recovery. Before the storm hits, we:

• Monitor NOAA alerts and issue internal readiness notifications
• Build trade- and region-specific capacity plans (roofing, water extraction, fencing)
• Coordinate with affiliate vendors for material sourcing, deployment, and availability
• Cross-train teams to enable rapid triage and service deployment
• Set client expectations with clear, proactive communications

When storms escalate, Lessen activates centralized dispatch, mobilizes affiliate resources, and provides real-time client updates through daily operational standups and weekly national reporting.

Ready to Protect Your Portfolio Before and After theStorm?

Lessen helps you move faster – from pre-storm planning through full recovery – our integrated platform and vendor network give you visibility, speed, and scale when you need them most.

Talk to our residential team today to design a post‑storm recovery plan tailored to your portfolio.

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