Nor’easter Prep for Boston Landlords and Property Owners: A Pre-Storm Property Checklist

A Nor'easter is expected to hit Greater Boston this weekend, bringing several days of heavy rain, strong winds, possible flooding, and power outages. The storm is expected to arrive this afternoon and last through Monday, with several inches of rain across eastern Massachusetts and powerful winds along the coast. A little maintenance now can prevent emergencies at your properties later.

Most trees haven't dropped their leaves yet this season, which makes them more vulnerable in high winds. Falling limbs or entire trees pose a real risk to roofs, cars, and power lines, so take note of any large trees near your buildings. While it might be too late to do some appropriate tree trimming – you can always put it on the action item list before the next big storm arrives.

Before the Storm Arrives

Clear gutters and downspouts. Remove leaves from eaves and downspouts so water drains away from the building.

Check sump pumps and backup systems. Make sure basement sump pumps are working and any backup systems are ready. This matters most for properties with basement or garden-level units.

Clear drains and window wells. Remove leaves and debris from exterior drains and window wells. Boston property owners can report clogged catch basins or street drain problems through 311.

Secure outdoor items. Tie down or bring inside trash barrels, recycling bins, patio furniture, grills, and anything else loose in the yard that high winds could turn into a projectile.

Check window AC units. Make sure window air conditioners are securely fastened, or consider removing them for the season.

Evaluate parking areas. If any parking spots sit under large trees or in low-lying areas that tend to flood, let tenants know so they can move their cars to higher ground or covered parking.

Document the property's condition. Take photos or video of the building inside and out, noting its current condition and any existing damage. This baseline will help with insurance claims and any disputes about when damage occurred.

Communicate With Your Tenants

Make sure tenants know how to reach you or your property manager in an urgent situation, including after hours. It's also helpful to remind them to:

• Report leaks, flooding, broken windows, or loss of heat or hot water right away.
• Move valuables off the floor in basement and garden-level units.
• Never use generators, grills, or other fuel-burning equipment indoors, since these produce carbon monoxide, an invisible, odorless gas that can kill within minutes.
• Stay out of standing water that may be in contact with outlets, cords, appliances, or the electrical panel

Understand Insurance Responsibilities

Your building insurance covers damage to the property itself, while tenants' renters insurance covers their personal belongings. Coverage for water damage varies depending on how the water entered and the specific policy, so review your coverage before the storm.

During the Storm

Respond to tenant reports of leaks, flooding, broken windows, or loss of heat or hot water as quickly as possible. Tenants are advised to follow up in writing within 24 hours of discovering damage, so keep those communications organized.

If power goes out, report it to the utility provider. Stay away from downed power lines, assume any downed wire is live, and report it to the utility company immediately. Do not enter flooded basements where water may be in contact with electrical equipment or the electrical panel; call the authorities or your utility provider instead.

After the Storm

Once the storm has fully passed, inspect the areas most likely to be damaged: roofs, basements, ceilings, exterior walls, and windows. Look for signs of water intrusion, including stains on ceilings or walls, damp or sagging floors, peeling paint, discoloration, or a musty smell.

Photograph all damage before cleaning up or making repairs, and keep detailed records for insurance and future reference. Dry out wet materials as quickly as possible to prevent mold.

A few hours of preparation can save you from costly emergency repairs and help keep your tenants safe.

Call 911 if anyone's life or safety is threatened during the storm.