Complete Checklist: Protecting Your Arkansas Home Pre-Storm

Arkansas homeowners know the drill. When March rolls around, so does severe weather season. Between March and May, Northwest Arkansas faces its highest risk for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, damaging hail, and destructive winds. But here’s what many Rogers and Bentonville residents don’t realize: the difference between minor damage and catastrophic loss often comes down to preparation done weeks before the first storm watch appears on your phone.

At OZK Insurance, we process storm damage claims every single year. We’ve seen homes on the same street experience vastly different outcomes from the same tornado or hailstorm—and the difference almost always traces back to pre-storm preparation. This isn’t about luck. It’s about taking specific, actionable steps before severe weather strikes.

This comprehensive guide provides the exact checklist Arkansas homeowners need to protect their property, minimize damage, and ensure smooth insurance claims if the worst happens. We’ve organized it by timeline—what to do now, what to do when severe weather is forecast, and what to do immediately after a storm.

Understanding Arkansas’s Unique Storm Risks

Before diving into the checklist, let’s establish what Northwest Arkansas homeowners actually face. Understanding your specific risks helps you prioritize preparation efforts.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Arkansas experienced 30 tornadoes in 2023 and 40 in 2022, with peak tornado season running March through May. However, Eastern Arkansas faces a secondary tornado season in late fall and winter. The 2024 severe weather events in May resulted in Federal disaster declarations (DR-4788-AR) covering multiple Northwest Arkansas counties.

Beyond tornadoes, Arkansas homeowners deal with:

• Severe hail storms (remember the devastating April 2023 events that damaged thousands of roofs across Rogers and Bentonville)
• Straight-line winds exceeding 70 mph
• Flash flooding (25% of Springdale homes remain at flood risk despite only 6% requiring flood insurance)
• Ice storms in winter months causing tree damage and prolonged power outages

The Arkansas insurance market has responded dramatically to these risks. The state posted a shocking 144% loss ratio in 2023, meaning insurance companies paid out $2.56 billion in claims against only $2.05 billion in collected premiums. This unsustainable situation has led to rate increases, carrier exits (United Home Insurance’s September 2023 insolvency), and stricter underwriting.

What This Means for You

Your insurance company is paying close attention to property maintenance and storm preparedness. Well-maintained homes with documented storm protection measures may qualify for better rates and smoother claims processes. Conversely, neglected properties face higher premiums—or even coverage denials.

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PART 1: Pre-Season Preparation (Do These Things NOW)

The most important preparation happens during calm weather, not when storms are approaching. Complete these tasks during the winter months so you’re ready when severe weather season arrives.

1. Comprehensive Property Documentation

Why This Matters: Insurance claims require proof of what you owned and its condition before damage occurred. Without documentation, you’ll struggle to receive full compensation.

Action Items:

✅ Video walkthrough – Use your smartphone to record a slow, detailed video of every room in your home. Open closets, cabinets, and drawers. Narrate as you go, noting valuable items and their approximate purchase dates.

✅ Photograph exteriors – Document your roof, siding, windows, doors, fencing, deck, patio, shed, and any other structures. Take close-ups showing condition.

✅ Create inventory spreadsheet – List major possessions with purchase dates, costs, and serial numbers. Include appliances, electronics, furniture, jewelry, tools, and sporting equipment.

✅ Store documentation safely – Upload everything to cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) so it’s accessible even if your home is destroyed. Email copies to yourself for additional backup.

OZK Insurance Tip: Your homeowners insurance policy should include replacement cost coverage, not actual cash value. We’ll verify this during your policy review to ensure you’re not underinsured.

2. Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Your roof is your home’s first defense against Arkansas storms. Most storm damage begins with roof failure.

Action Items:

✅ Professional inspection – Hire a licensed roofing contractor (not a storm chaser!) to inspect your roof annually. Ask for a written report detailing the condition and recommended repairs.

✅ Check for missing/damaged shingles – Even minor damage creates entry points for water during heavy rain.

✅ Inspect flashing – Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights prevents water intrusion. Ensure it’s secure and sealed.

✅ Clean gutters thoroughly – Clogged gutters overflow during heavy rain, damaging fascia, soffits, and foundation. Clean them twice annually (spring and fall).

✅ Verify attic ventilation – Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and extends roof life.

✅ Document roof age – Know your roof’s installation date. Most Arkansas insurers’ non-renewal policies or charge surcharges for roofs over 15-20 years old.

Critical Note: If your roof needs replacement, do it before storm season. Trying to get repairs done immediately after major storms means waiting weeks or months due to contractor backlogs—while your damaged roof continues deteriorating.

3. Tree and Landscape Management

Trees cause massive storm damage throughout Northwest Arkansas. A 60-foot oak crashing through your roof during a tornado creates $50,000+ in damage. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.

Action Items:

✅ Hirea  certified arborist – Have trees within falling distance of your home professionally evaluated. Remove dead, diseased, or structurally compromised trees.

✅ Trim overhanging branches – Branches should be at least 10 feet from your roof and power lines.

✅ Remove dead limbs – These become missiles in high winds.

✅ Check for decay – Trees with visible decay, cracks, or fungal growth near the base are hazards.

✅ Consider removal of problem species – Bradford pear trees are notorious for splitting during storms. If you have them near your home, consider removal.

✅ Document tree removal – Keep receipts showing you’ve maintained your property. This helps if nearby trees (that you can’t control) cause damage.

Arkansas Reality: Many storm damage claims involve trees that homeowners “knew were problems” but hadn’t addressed. Insurance companies can deny claims if they determine damage resulted from deferred maintenance.

4. Window and Door Reinforcement

Action Items:

✅ Install storm shutters – Permanent or removable shutters protect windows from wind-borne debris. This is especially important for large windows and sliding glass doors.

✅ Consider impact-resistant windows – If replacing windows anyway, upgrade to impact-resistant models. Some insurers offer premium discounts for these.

✅ Inspect door weather stripping – Ensure all exterior doors seal properly.

✅ Reinforce garage doors – Garage doors are vulnerable points. Add bracing kits if you haven’t already.

✅ Check window caulking – Re-caulk around windows to prevent water intrusion.

5. Foundation and Drainage Management

Flash flooding is a serious Arkansas risk. Proper drainage protects your foundation and prevents water damage.

Action Items:

✅ Grade slopes away from foundation – Soil should slope away from your home at least 6 inches over 10 feet.

✅ Extend downspouts – Downspouts should discharge at least 5-10 feet from your foundation.

✅ Install French drains if needed – If you have chronic drainage problems, invest in proper solutions now.

✅ Seal foundation cracks – Even small cracks admit water during heavy rain.

✅ Clear drainage swales – Ensure water flows away from your property.

 

6. Utility and System Preparation

Action Items:

✅ Know utility shutoff locations – Everyone in your household should know how to shut off gas, electricity, and water in emergencies.

✅ Label shutoff valves – Use bright tape or tags to mark valves clearly.

✅ Service HVAC system – A well-maintained HVAC system is less likely to fail during power outages and restoration.

✅ Test sump pump – If you have a sump pump, test it monthly during storm season. Consider a battery backup system.

✅ Trim branches near power lines – Contact your utility company about trimming—don’t do this yourself.

7. Create Storm Shelter Plan

Every Arkansas household needs a designated storm shelter location and clear plan.

Action Items:

✅ Identify best shelter location – Basements are ideal. Without a basement, choose an interior room on the lowest floor (bathroom, closet, hallway) away from windows.

✅ Stock shelter supplies – Keep flashlights, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, water, and medications in or near your shelter area.

✅ Practice shelter drills – Ensure every family member knows where to go and can get there quickly. Practice at night when visibility is limited.

✅ Consider storm shelter installation – For homes without basements, above-ground or in-ground storm shelters provide life-saving protection. Installation costs $3,000-$10,000 but some insurance companies offer premium discounts.

PART 2: When Severe Weather is Forecast (24-48 Hour Preparation)

When meteorologists forecast severe weather for your area, take these immediate actions:

Exterior Preparation Checklist

• Secure outdoor furniture – Move patio furniture, grills, planters, and decorations into garage or shed. Items left outside become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
• Bring in potted plants – Or secure them against a wall.
• Close and secure storm shutters – If you have them installed.
• Park vehicles in garage – Protect vehicles from hail damage. If garage space is limited, prioritize newer/more valuable vehicles.
• Move vehicles away from trees – If you can’t garage vehicles, park them away from trees and power lines.
• Secure trash cans – Bring them inside or secure with bungee cords.
• Check that gates are latched – Unsecured gates can be torn off hinges.

Interior Preparation Checklist

• Charge all devices – Phones, tablets, laptops, battery packs. Power outages often follow severe storms.
• Fill bathtubs with water – For flushing toilets if water service is disrupted.
• Prepare emergency kit – Water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days), non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, cash, important documents.
• Move valuables to interior rooms – If you have time, move photos, documents, and valuables away from windows.
• Know weather alert systems – Download weather apps, enable emergency alerts, monitor local news.

Insurance Preparation Checklist

• Have policy information accessible – Know your policy number, agent contact information, and claims phone number. Save this in your phone.
• Review your deductibles – Know what you’ll pay out-of-pocket for different types of damage.
• Understand your coverage – Does your policy cover wind damage? Hail damage? Water damage from roof leaks?
• Pre-position documentation – Ensure your property inventory and photos are in cloud storage accessible from your phone.

PART 3: Immediately After a Storm (Critical First Steps)

The hours immediately following storm damage are crucial for protecting your property and ensuring smooth insurance claims.

Safety First

Before documenting damage or beginning cleanup:

• Check for injuries – Provide first aid and call 911 if needed.
• Assess structural safety – If your home shows signs of structural damage (sagging roof, cracked walls, shifted foundation), evacuate immediately.
• Check for gas leaks – If you smell gas, leave immediately and call the gas company from a safe distance.
• Avoid downed power lines – Treat all downed lines as energized. Stay at least 30 feet away and call your utility company.
• Watch for water damage – Turn off electricity if standing water is present.

Emergency Mitigation

You’re required by your insurance policy to prevent further damage after a storm.

• Cover roof damage – Use tarps secured with wood to prevent rain from entering. Keep receipts—this is a reimbursable expense.
• Board up broken windows – Secure openings to prevent weather damage and theft.
• Remove standing water – Use pumps, wet vacs, or mops to remove water quickly. Mold begins growing within 24-48 hours.
• Move undamaged belongings – Relocate items away from damaged areas.
• Document everything – Before making any repairs, photograph and video all damage extensively.

Critical: Don’t make permanent repairs until your insurance adjuster has inspected and approved them. Emergency temporary repairs are fine—replacing a damaged roof before the adjuster sees it can complicate claims.

Claims Documentation

Thorough documentation determines claim success.

• Photograph everything – Take wide shots showing overall damage and close-ups of specific damage. Include date stamps if possible.
• Video walkthrough – Record video narrating all damage you observe.
• Make detailed lists – Inventory all damaged items with descriptions, approximate ages, and replacement costs.
• Keep damage samples – Save pieces of damaged shingles, siding, or other materials for adjuster inspection.
• Separate damaged items – Don’t discard damaged belongings until your adjuster has inspected them.
• Document temporary repairs – Keep receipts for tarps, plywood, and other emergency supplies.

Contact OZK Insurance Immediately

As your independent agent, OZK Insurance serves as your advocate throughout the claims process.

What We Do:

• File your claim with the insurance company
• Schedule adjuster inspection
• Review damage estimates for accuracy
• Negotiate settlements on your behalf
• Ensure you receive full compensation for covered damage
• Help if your claim is denied or undervalued
• Connect you with reputable contractors (not storm chasers)

Call us at (479) 715-4200 immediately after storm damage. Our team is experienced with Arkansas storm claims and knows exactly what documentation carriers require. We’ll guide you through the entire process.

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Avoiding Storm Chaser Contractors

After major storms, out-of-state contractors flood Northwest Arkansas looking for quick profits. Many are unlicensed, uninsured, and disappear after taking deposits.

Red Flags:

• ❌ Contractors going door-to-door immediately after storms
• ❌ Pressure to sign contracts immediately
• ❌ Requests for large upfront payments
• ❌ Out-of-state license plates and temporary phone numbers
• ❌ Offers to “work with your insurance” or “waive your deductible” (insurance fraud)
• ❌ No local references or business address

What to Do Instead:

• ✅ Get referrals from OZK Insurance for reputable contractors we’ve worked with
• ✅ Verify contractor licenses through Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (501-372-4661)
• ✅ Get multiple written estimates
• ✅ Never pay more than 10% deposit
• ✅ Require written contracts specifying work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule
• ✅ Verify contractor has liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage

Insurance Coverage: What’s Covered and What’s Not

Understanding your homeowners’ policy prevents surprises during claims.

Typically COVERED Storm Damage:

✅ Wind damage to roof, siding, windows
✅ Hail damage to roof, siding, vehicles (if you have comprehensive auto coverage)
✅ Falling tree damage (if tree falls on house)
✅ Lightning damage
✅ Water damage from roof/window damage caused by wind
✅ Temporary living expenses if home is uninhabitable (check your policy limits)

Typically NOT COVERED:

❌ Flood damage (requires separate flood insurance)
❌ Maintenance-related damage (neglected roof that was already failing)
❌ Cosmetic damage (if roof is functional but looks bad)
❌ Landscape damage (limited coverage, often $500-1,000 maximum)
❌ Damage from trees that fell but didn’t hit structures
❌ Preventative tree removal

Gray Areas Requiring Documentation:

⚠️ Age-related roof depreciation (some policies pay actual cash value, not replacement cost)
⚠️ Pre-existing damage that worsened during storm
⚠️ Gradual water infiltration vs. sudden wind-driven rain

This is why working with an experienced independent agent matters. We know which carriers have favorable claims practices and which nickel-and-dime policyholders.

Arkansas-Specific Resources

Annual Storm Preparation Checklist

Print this and complete annually before storm season:

February-March (Before Storm Season):

• Schedule a roof inspection
• Hire an arborist for tree evaluation
• Update property documentation (photos/video)
• Review the insurance policy with OZK Insurance
• Test the sump pump
• Clean gutters
• Check weather alert systems functioning

Throughout Storm Season (March-May):

• Monitor weather forecasts daily
• Keep vehicles fueled (at least half tank)
• Maintain storm shelter supplies
• Review family emergency plan monthly

After Storm Season (June):

• Inspect for any damage missed
• Document any maintenance completed
• Review how your preparation worked
• Make notes for next year’s improvements

Fall (October-November):

• Clean gutters again
• Remove dead tree limbs before winter
• Second storm season in Eastern Arkansas (stay alert)

Conclusion: Preparation Today Prevents Devastation Tomorrow

Living in Arkansas means accepting that severe weather isn’t a question of “if” but “when.” Every spring, Northwest Arkansas homeowners watch the skies, monitor weather apps, and hope their homes will be spared. But hope isn’t a strategy—preparation is.

The difference between a family that recovers quickly from storm damage and one that struggles for months often comes down to the simple actions outlined in this guide. Documenting your property before damage occurs. Maintaining your roof instead of deferring repairs. Removing that dead tree you’ve been worried about. Creating a storm shelter plan your family actually practices. These aren’t dramatic actions, but they’re devastatingly effective.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

With Arkansas’s insurance market in crisis—144% loss ratios, carrier exits, and skyrocketing premiums—insurance companies are scrutinizing properties more carefully than ever before. Well-maintained homes with documented storm preparation aren’t just safer; they’re more insurable. They qualify for better rates, smoother claims processes, and less likelihood of coverage denial.

Conversely, homes with deferred maintenance, neglected trees, and aging roofs face higher premiums or outright non-renewal. The insurance market is rewarding preparedness and penalizing neglect. This trend will only intensify as severe weather frequency increases and insurance companies fight to remain solvent in Arkansas.

Your Action Plan Starts Now

Don’t wait for the National Weather Service to issue the first severe thunderstorm watch of the season. Start working through this checklist today:

This Week:

• Review your homeowners insurance policy with OZK Insurance
• Create your property documentation (photos and video)
• Identify your storm shelter location

This Month:

• Schedule professional roof inspection
• Hire certified arborist to evaluate trees
• Clean gutters and check drainage

Before Storm Season:

• Complete all recommended repairs
• Stock your emergency kit
• Practice your family shelter drill

The OZK Insurance Commitment

As Northwest Arkansas’s proactive independent insurance agency, we’re not just here to sell you a policy—we’re here to help you weather Arkansas’s storms, literally and figuratively. Our team has guided hundreds of Rogers, Bentonville, and Fayetteville families through storm damage claims, and we’ve learned what works and what doesn’t.

We know which carriers handle Arkansas storm claims fairly. We know which contractors you can trust and which ones to avoid. We know exactly what documentation you need and how to present it for maximum claim value. Most importantly, we know that the best claim is the one you never have to file because you were prepared.

When severe weather strikes Northwest Arkansas—and it will—you’ll face enough stress without worrying about whether you have adequate coverage, whether your insurance company will treat you fairly, or whether you documented damage correctly. Let us handle those concerns before storm season arrives.

Take Control of What You Can Control

You can’t control the Arkansas weather. You can’t prevent tornadoes from forming or hail from falling. But you can control how prepared your home is, how well-documented your property is, and how quickly you can respond when damage occurs.

You can control whether you have adequate insurance coverage or just barely meet legal minimums. You can control whether you work with an independent agent who advocates for you or a captive agent who’s limited to one company’s products.

Storm season is coming. Are you ready?