Why prep starts with debris
High winds turn loose objects and weak branches into projectiles, and fallen trees cause much of the damage to homes and power lines. Clearing debris and trimming trees before the season starts reduces what the storm can throw at your house – and what you have to haul away afterward.
Before the season: yard and trees
- Trim trees and shrubs so they are more wind resistant, and remove dead or weak branches, as the National Weather Service recommends.
- Remove dead trees near the house. A certified arborist can assess trees you are unsure about.
- Clear yard debris – old lumber, broken furniture, scrap – that could become airborne.
- Plan disposal: a spring yard cleanup is a good use for a 20 yard container. See yard waste and tree debris.
Before the season: the house
- Clear gutters and downspouts so heavy rain drains away from the house.
- Check the roof: loose shingles and weak connections fail first. The NWS recommends straps or clips that fasten the roof to the frame. If you need a replacement, doing it before the season avoids the post-storm rush. See roof tear-off.
- Protect windows: permanent storm shutters offer the best protection; otherwise plywood cut to size and ready to install.
- Clear the garage so you can bring outdoor items and vehicles inside. A garage cleanout before the season does double duty. See garage projects.
Paperwork
- Review your homeowners and flood insurance. Flood damage is usually not covered by standard homeowners policies.
- Photograph and video every room and the outside of the house before the season.
- Store policies, IDs and records in a waterproof container and in the cloud.
When a storm is forecast
- Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture, grills, planters, decorations and trash cans.
- If you have a dumpster on site, ask the provider whether they will pull it before landfall. An open container full of light debris is a hazard in high winds. Don’t leave loose material piled next to it.
- Follow evacuation orders and official guidance.
After the storm: cleanup plan
- Safety first. Stay away from downed power lines and standing water, and follow FEMA and local guidance before returning.
- Document everything for insurance before removing debris.
- Check local collection rules. Many cities run storm debris collection that requires separating vegetation, construction debris, appliances, electronics and hazardous waste.
- Remove wet materials quickly to limit mold. The EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.
- Book a container early if you need one. Demand spikes after storms. See storm debris cleanup: what goes where.
Choosing a container after a storm
- Wet drywall, carpet and furniture: 20 yards; wet material is heavy.
- Tree debris: 20 to 30 yards for limbs; trunks are heavy.
- Roof tear-off: 10 to 20 yards, sized by weight.
Be wary after the storm
After disasters, some contractors and haulers go door to door. Ask for a written price, check reviews and local registration, and never pay the full amount up front.
A pre-season timeline
- Late winter and spring: tree trimming, roof inspection and repairs, gutter cleaning, yard and garage cleanouts.
- Before June: review insurance, photograph the house, cut and label window protection, and stock supplies.
- During the season: keep the yard clear of loose items, watch the forecast and have a plan for your family and pets.
Doing the heavy work in spring has another advantage: roofers, tree services and dumpster providers are easier to book before the season than after a storm.
What to keep on hand for cleanup
- Heavy-duty gloves, boots, N95 or better masks and eye protection.
- Contractor bags, tarps and a pry bar.
- A camera or phone and a notebook to document damage.
- Contact information for your insurer, a roofer and a local dumpster provider.
How our service fits in
Local Dumpster Network is a free referral service. When you call, you are connected with an independent, local provider serving your ZIP code. See our pages for Houston, Tampa Bay, New Orleans and Hampton Roads.