The 5 Biggest Weather Risks for Real Estate

As a homeowner, the risks facing your real estate can often seem overwhelming. From fires to termites to squirrel infestation and more, it seems like there are thousands of ways for the value of your property to be diminished.

Did you know, however, that weather risks remain some of the primary risk factors for homes around the country?

With a potential for massive damage and huge expense, weather risks are something that most homeowners could do well to spend more time thinking about.

The 5 Biggest Weather Risks Facing Properties in the U.S.

Regardless of whether you live in Oklahoma or Montana, severe weather is a real threat. Today, these five weather risks come out on the top of the list:

1. Dry Weather and Heat

For the last several years, wildfire rates in the U.S. have been reaching historic heights, and the combination of dry weather and heat is more dangerous for homes than it’s ever been before. In fact, 2015 was the worst wildfire season on record.

In places like California, Texas, and Georgia, fires have spread rapidly, consuming homes and damaging structures.

Even if you thought you didn’t live in a wildfire-prone area, taking proactive steps to fire-proof your home (such as clearing underbrush and trees from the perimeter of the home, using fire-resistant carpeting and textiles, and keeping smoke alarms functional) can go a long way to protect your home if a forest fire does spread.

2. Tornadoes

Tornadoes have been reported in every state in the U.S., and can destroy a home and take lives as they rip through a landscape. While tornado-proofing your home probably isn’t necessary, unless you live in a tornado-prone area, it is smart to be aware that nowhere is immune to these high-powered windstorms.

3. Hurricanes

For homes in coastal areas, hurricanes are one of the most pressing weather risks. As if the gale-force winds and crashing waters weren’t enough, hurricanes can also trigger other disastrous weather events, such as tornadoes, lighting, hail, and flooding.

4. Floods

Floods, whether caused by a hurricane or not, can be disastrous for homeowners and their properties. Flooding occurs in all 50 states and even as little as a single inch of water can wreak havoc on a home.

5.  Lightning

One of the most common causes of wildfires and house fires, lightning can damage roofs and catch trees near the home on fire, leading to a dangerous situation in a matter of moments. If you live in a lightening-prone area, take proactive steps to protect your home from lightning in the future.

Be Aware of Weather Risks Facing Your Property

While every homeowner can hope that severe weather never puts his or her home at risk, it’s smart for property owners to be aware of the primary weather risks facing different parts of the country, and to prepare for them accordingly. After all, proactive steps are better than reactive steps, and keeping your home safe matters!