Fall Storm Damage Checklist for Central NJ Homeowners

Fall in Central New Jersey brings beautiful foliage—and increasingly severe weather. From tropical storm remnants in September and October to early nor'easters in November, the fall season presents serious storm damage risk for homeowners across Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, and Somerset Counties.

Use this seasonal checklist every September to prepare your home before storm season peaks.

Roof & Exterior

• [ ] Inspect the roof for missing, cracked, or curling shingles after summer heat. Address any issues before they become leaks.

• [ ] Clean gutters and downspouts once leaves begin to fall (and again after peak leaf drop). Clogged gutters cause ice dams in winter and overflow during heavy fall rain.

• [ ] Trim overhanging tree branches within 10 feet of your home. This is the #1 cause of storm damage in wooded Central NJ neighborhoods.

• [ ] Inspect chimney flashing and seals for cracks or separation. Chimney flashing failures are a leading cause of water intrusion during heavy rain.

• [ ] Check fascia and soffit boards for rot or damage. Compromised fascia allows water to wick into the attic and wall cavities.

Windows, Doors & Seals

• [ ] Caulk around all windows and exterior doors. Summer heat causes caulk to crack and shrink—fall is the ideal time to reseal.

• [ ] Test storm windows and doors for proper fit and operation.

• [ ] Inspect garage door seals along the bottom edge. This is often how wind-driven rain enters garages.

Basement & Foundation

• [ ] Test your sump pump (pour a bucket of water in the pit and confirm it activates).

• [ ] Inspect the window wells around basement windows. Clear any debris and confirm the drainage gravel at the bottom is not compacted.

• [ ] Seal any new foundation cracks with hydraulic cement before freeze-thaw cycles worsen them over winter.

Trees & Landscaping

• [ ] Have an arborist assess large trees near your home every 3–5 years—or after any major storm. Stressed or diseased trees pose catastrophic risk.

• [ ] Remove dead trees and large dead branches proactively. A certified arborist in Central NJ typically costs $300–$800; emergency tree removal after a storm can run $2,000–$10,000.

• [ ] Store outdoor furniture, grills, and décor before storms arrive. Unsecured items become projectiles in high wind.

Emergency Preparedness

• [ ] Create a 72-hour emergency kit: Water (1 gallon/person/day), non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, extra batteries, and cash.

• [ ] Save emergency numbers: Your insurance company's claims line, a water/fire damage restoration company, a plumber, and an electrician.

• [ ] Know your utility shutoffs: Every adult in the household should know where to shut off electricity, gas, and water.

• [ ] Review your insurance coverage: Confirm you have adequate coverage for wind damage and, separately, flood damage.

After a Storm: What to Do First

1. Document everything before cleanup—photos and video of all damage, from multiple angles.

2. Prevent further damage by installing temporary tarps on damaged roofs or boarding up broken windows. This is typically covered under your insurance policy as a "reasonable protective measure."

3. Contact your insurance company to open a claim before major cleanup begins.

4. Call a professional restoration company for water intrusion, structural damage, or any situation where electrical systems may have been compromised.

Seven Wonders Pro Cleaning provides emergency storm damage response across Central NJ—including Freehold, Manalapan, Monroe Township, East Brunswick, and all surrounding communities.

Available 24/7: (732) 484-8970

Read more about our Storm Damage Repair and Board-Up Services.