Act with Urgency to Protect Property Ahead of Tropical Storm Melissa

With the island already saturated from days of rainfall, property owners are being urged to take immediate steps to safeguard their homes and businesses as weather authorities warn of heavy showers associated with Tropical Storm Melissa.

Kerry Scott, head of real estate and properties at JN Properties Limited, expressed concern that the slow movement of the storm raises the potential for prolonged rainfall and flooding which could severely impact communities in low-lying areas.

“The waterlogged condition of the soil heightens the risk of flooding which can occur much faster and with greater impact. When the soil can no longer absorb water, even a few minutes of heavy rain can lead to severe flooding which can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure and result in loss of lives,” explained Mr Scott, who noted that JN Properties manages more than 130 properties across the island.

Mr Scott said property owners must act with urgency to minimise potential losses.

“Taking proactive measures before the storm strikes, can lessen damage to homes and businesses and help to reduce recovery costs and emotional distress in the aftermath. Preparation can make the difference between a quick recovery and long-term disruption,” he maintained.

The property management expert shared some practical measures to help homeowners and business operators to protect their properties from storm and flood damage:

• Cut over-hanging tree limbs: Tree limbs can fall onto buildings during high winds and cause injury to persons and damage to property.
• Maintain proper drainage around properties: Clear blocked drains, culverts and gullies to allow rainwater to flow freely. Clogged drains are one of the main causes of flooding in communities.  Simple actions such as removing debris and cutting overgrown vegetation can significantly lessen the impact of heavy rainfall.
• Inspect and reinforce structures: Examine your property for cracks and other weak points that may allow water to seep in during heavy rain. Applying waterproof sealant to these areas can help to reduce the risk of water damage.
• Install barriers: Place sandbags at doors and at other vulnerable entry points to help prevent water from seeping into homes and business places. They act as a temporary barrier to redirect or absorb water, reducing the risk of flooding inside the building. For maximum effectiveness, stack them tightly and in a staggered pattern. Sandbags should be prepared in advance as last-minute sourcing can be difficult during severe weather.
• Elevate critical equipment: Appliances and important business equipment should be raised above expected flood levels. In commercial properties, ensure that documents and valuable stock are moved to higher floors, where possible.
• Secure outdoor equipment: Movepatio furniture, garden equipment, and other loose items indoors or anchor them securely to prevent them from becoming flying debris. Also, secure awnings either by lowering and fastening them to the building or removing them all together. Unsecured outdoor items can escalate minor damage into major expenses.
• Take photographs and videos of property: Persons with insured property should take photographs and videos of buildings and contents before the storm to document the condition of the property. These can provideproof to support insurance claims if the property sustains damage.
• Prepare an emergency plan: Identify evacuation routes and nearby emergency shelters if your home becomes unsafe to stay in. In the event you need to evacuate, keep documents, keys and emergency contact info together in a ready-to-go kit. Practise the evacuation plan so that everyone is familiar with the procedures, which can help to ensure a smoother and safer response when disaster strikes.

After the storm passes, Mr Scott recommends having a professional inspect the building’s foundation and electrical system to ensure safety.

“Even if a building appears sound, water exposure can weaken foundations, corrode wiring, and compromise overall safety,” he warned. “A proper inspection helps prevent accidents and ensures the property is truly safe for occupancy.”