Preparing Properties and Renters with Disaster Readiness Resources
September is National Preparedness Month — an annual reminder to make sure multifamily properties and renters are prepared in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.
Resources to Help Prepare for Emergencies
Multifamily owners and operators can help renters understand their climate risks and provide resources that will equip them with the tools needed in case of a natural disaster. FEMA has a variety of toolkits available online and free to the public — offering advice on basic preparedness like developing an emergency plan, subscribing to community warning systems and evacuation routes, or where to seek shelter from all types of hazards.
For example, Ready.gov recommends creating an emergency plan that answers the following questions:
- How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
- What is my shelter plan?
- What is my evacuation route?
- What is my household communication plan?
- Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?
It's also important to understand your property’s climate risks, which vary by location and property type. There are significant benefits to educating renters on the hazards that could impact the area, such as extreme heat, wildfires, flooding, hurricanes, storms and more. By knowing the potential risks in advance, both property owners and renters can do their part to reduce impacts.
Ways to Respond and Recover from a Natural Disaster
If a rental unit suffers damage from a natural disaster, contact your insurance company to file a claim. Coverage may vary based on the specific insurance policy, but generally most will cover damage from tornadoes, fires, hail and non-flood related water damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy and can be valuable even if the property is not in a coastal area.
If a disaster has been declared in your county, federal, state or local assistance may be available. Assistance can come through in the form of funds which can be used to potentially cover costs, such as security deposits, rent or utilities to help renters relocate if they have been displaced.
Navigating the road to recovery from a natural disaster can be a long, challenging process. Consider distributing these resources at your multifamily property now or offering available trainings to protect renters and their homes — that way your property and renters can be prepared if disaster strikes.