Oklahoma City, unfortunately, experiences its fair share of tornadoes. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, Oklahoma leads the nation in the average number of tornadoes per year [Data source: National Weather Service, NOAA (.gov)]. As a property owner or real estate investor in this dynamic city, prioritizing tornado safety for rentals and taking steps to fortify your house against these powerful storms is not just recommended, it’s essential.
This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources necessary to tornado-proof your property. By implementing these proactive measures, you can significantly enhance the safety of your residents or tenants, minimize potential damage, and ensure the long-term value of your investment.
Why Tornado-Proofing Matters for Property Owners and Investors
Beyond the ethical obligation to provide a safe living environment for your residents, tornado-proofing your property offers several tangible benefits:
- Increased Property Value: Studies show that homes with storm shelters or other tornado-resistant features tend to command higher rents and selling prices.
- Reduced Damage and Repair Costs: A tornado-proofed property is less susceptible to damage during a storm, minimizing repair costs and potential downtime.
- Lower Insurance Premiums: Many insurance companies offer discounts for properties with documented tornado-resistant features.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your property and residents are well-protected provides invaluable peace of mind.
Understanding Your Options: Different Levels of Tornado Protection
The level of tornado protection you implement depends on your budget, property type, and risk tolerance. Here’s a breakdown of some common approaches:
- Basic Mitigation Techniques: These involve relatively inexpensive measures like anchoring sheds and loose outdoor furniture, trimming trees away from structures, and reinforcing garage doors.
- Storm Shelters: Installing a dedicated underground or above-ground storm shelter offers the highest level of protection. While a significant investment, it provides a safe haven during a tornado.
- Safe Rooms: Converting a designated interior room, preferably windowless and on the lowest level, into a safe room with reinforced walls and a sturdy door offers a good compromise.
- Window Protection: Applying impact-resistant window films or installing storm shutters can significantly reduce the risk of flying debris penetration.
Taking Action: A Step-by-Step Guide to Tornado-Proofing Your Property
Now that you understand the importance and different levels of tornado protection, let’s delve into a step-by-step process to tornado-proof your property:
1. Conduct a Thorough Property Inspection: Begin by meticulously inspecting your property for any potential weaknesses. Look for loose roof shingles, damaged siding, or overhanging branches that could become projectiles in a storm. Address any identified issues promptly.
2. Secure the Roof: The roof is your property’s first line of defense. Ensure all roof shingles are securely fastened, and consider upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials if necessary.
3. Reinforce Garage Doors: Garage doors are particularly vulnerable during tornadoes. Invest in reinforced garage doors with wind-resistant bracing systems.
4. Mitigate Outdoor Hazards: Secure or remove any loose outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations that could become flying debris. Trim tree branches away from your house, focusing on dead or weak limbs.
5. Consider Window Protection: Explore options like impact-resistant window film or storm shutters to minimize the risk of window breakage and flying debris penetration.
6. Develop a Storm Preparedness Plan: Create a comprehensive storm preparedness plan for your residents or tenants. This plan should include information on where to find shelter, evacuation procedures, and emergency contact details. Conduct regular practice drills to ensure everyone understands the plan.
7. Communicate with Residents or Tenants: Clearly communicate the steps you’ve taken to tornado-proof your property to your residents or tenants. Provide them with a copy of the storm preparedness plan and answer any questions they may have.
Tailoring Your Approach: Considerations for Different Property Types
While the general principles outlined above apply to most properties, there might be specific considerations for different types:
- Single-Family Homes: For single-family homes, installing a storm shelter or fortifying a safe room might be feasible options. Basic mitigation techniques and window protection are also crucial.
- Apartment Buildings (continued): In apartment buildings, creating a designated storm shelter on the lowest floor and ensuring all units have access to a safe room or windowless interior space is essential. Implementing a robust communication plan to alert residents of impending storms and guide them to the designated shelter is crucial.
- Commercial Properties: For commercial properties, consider the specific needs of your tenants. Businesses with on-site personnel may require a designated storm shelter on the premises. In all cases, prioritize securing loose equipment, signage, and outdoor furniture that may become airborne in high winds.
Tornado Safety for Rentals: Considerations for Real Estate Investors
As a real estate investor in Oklahoma City, incorporating tornado safety for rentals into your property management strategy is vital. Here are some additional considerations:
- Disclose Tornado Risks: Clearly disclose the potential for tornadoes in your lease agreements and provide information on the implemented safety measures.
- Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your rental properties to ensure all mitigation measures remain functional and address any potential hazards promptly.
- Partner with Local Experts: Consider partnering with local contractors specializing in storm-resistant construction or mitigation techniques for professional advice and services.
Additional Resources and Tools for Tornado Preparedness
Here are some valuable resources to further enhance your knowledge and tornado preparedness:
- National Weather Service (NOAA): [National Weather Service (.gov) ON National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (.gov) weather.gov] provides real-time weather alerts, safety tips, and educational resources.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Ready.gov offers comprehensive preparedness guidance for various emergencies, including tornadoes.
- Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (ODEM): [Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (.gov) odem.ok.gov] provides state-specific information and resources for tornado preparedness.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and utilizing the available resources, you can effectively tornado-proof your Oklahoma City property. This proactive approach not only safeguards the well-being of your residents or tenants but also protects your investment and fosters a sense of security and trust. Remember, even basic mitigation techniques can significantly improve your property’s resilience.
Don’t wait until the next storm warning! Take action today to tornado-proof your property and ensure the safety of your residents or tenants. Schedule a consultation with a qualified contractor to discuss your options and create a customized tornado preparedness plan. By prioritizing safety, you can achieve peace of mind and contribute to a more resilient community.
By Miles Vu
