Hurricane Prep for Coastal Homes in Horry County, SC

South Carolina averages one or two significant tropical storm impacts per decade — and Horry County's coastal position makes it one of the most exposed counties in the state. But even when major hurricanes track away from Myrtle Beach, tropical storms, outer bands, and nor'easters regularly test coastal property. Preparation isn't just about the big storm. It's about what you do before every storm season.

This checklist is organized by priority and designed for Horry County homeowners, vacation rental owners, and out-of-state property investors who want to protect their investment before storm season begins.

Exterior Preparation — Do This First

Gutters & Drainage

• Clean all gutters and downspouts before storm season (May–June)
• Confirm all downspouts direct water at least 3 feet from the foundation
• Check that yard grading drains away from the home, not toward it
• Clear any French drains or drainage channels of debris

Clogged gutters during a tropical storm can dump hundreds of gallons of water directly against your foundation. This is one of the highest-ROI maintenance tasks you can do before storm season.

Roof & Attic

• Inspect roof for missing, loose, or cracked shingles — repair before storm season
• Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
• Trim tree branches that overhang the roof
• Check attic vents — confirm they're clear and screened

Windows & Doors

• Inspect and replace worn weatherstripping on all exterior doors
• Check window caulking — recaulk any cracked or missing sections
• Know where your hurricane shutters or plywood storm panels are stored
• Test garage door — confirm it can withstand wind pressure or have a bracing kit

Yard & Landscaping

• Remove dead or dying trees that could fall on your home
• Trim large branches over the roofline or near utility lines
• Identify any outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations that need to be secured or stored
• Check that fence posts are secure — replace rotted posts before wind tests them

Mechanical Systems — Check Annually

• Test sump pump if you have one — this is critical before rainy season
• Know where your main water shutoff is
• Know where your electrical panel is and confirm breakers are labeled
• Service generator if you have one — fresh fuel stabilizer, oil change, test run
• Check AC unit exterior — confirm it's on a secure pad and strapped if required

For Vacation Rental Owners in Myrtle Beach

If you own a short-term rental in Horry County, storm prep requires an extra layer of planning because you may not be on-site when a storm approaches.

• Have a local property contact (or your Bakerss team) who can secure the property on short notice
• Know your platform's cancellation and force-majeure policies for tropical weather
• Remove or secure all outdoor furniture and decor before peak storm months
• Have photos of the property's exterior condition on file for insurance claims
• Store a copy of your homeowner's and flood insurance policies somewhere accessible outside the property

Post-Storm Checklist

• Do not enter the property until storm has fully passed and conditions are safe
• Photograph all damage before doing any cleanup — for insurance documentation
• Check roof for missing shingles, fallen branches, and debris
• Clear gutters of post-storm debris immediately
• Check for water intrusion at windows, doors, and any roof penetrations
• If water entered the home — call a remediation company within 24–48 hours to prevent mold
• Document everything photographically before cleanup begins

When to Call Your Property Maintenance Team

Pre-season property prep and post-storm cleanup are both services Bakerss provides throughout Horry County. From gutter cleaning and pressure washing to handyman storm prep and post-storm debris removal — having a reliable local team you can call before and after a storm is one of the most valuable things a Myrtle Beach property owner can have. We answer 24/7 and respond quickly to storm-related requests.