Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and the Houston area has learned the hard way that storms don't need to be direct hits to cause damage. Wind turns patio furniture into projectiles, and heavy rain can flood garages and low-lying neighborhoods. A little preparation, and a nearby storage unit, can make a big difference.
Before the season: get organized
- Inventory your home. Walk through each room and record video for insurance.
- Digitize documents. Scan IDs, deeds, insurance policies and titles; keep originals in a waterproof, fire-resistant box.
- Declutter the garage. A clear garage means you can park your car inside when a storm approaches.
- Check your coverage. Many homeowner policies don't cover flood. Ask your agent about flood insurance and about coverage for stored property, and review our tenant protection plans.
When a storm is in the forecast: what to move
| Move to storage | Why |
|---|---|
| Patio furniture, umbrellas, grills (propane tanks removed) | Prevents wind damage and broken windows |
| Kids' play equipment, trampolines (disassembled), bikes | Common flying debris |
| Garage overflow | Makes room to park cars inside |
| Boats and trailers | Get them out of the driveway and street |
| Heirlooms and furniture from ground floors in flood-prone areas | Reduce what's at risk at home |
Don't wait: When a storm is named and headed for the Gulf Coast, everyone has the same idea. Reserve a unit early in the season so you're not scrambling.
How to pack for storm season
- Use plastic bins with locking lids, not cardboard.
- Put everything on pallets or shelving, never directly on the floor.
- Wrap furniture in breathable covers.
- Seal electronics in plastic bags with desiccant packs.
- Never store fuel, propane tanks or chemicals.
- Take photos of everything you store.
After the storm
Storage is just as useful after a storm. If your home needs repairs, new drywall, flooring or a roof, move furniture and belongings to a drive-up unit while contractors work. Our long units make it easy to load sofas and mattresses straight from a truck.
Build a storm kit you can grab fast
Keep a ready-to-go kit at home (water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, phone chargers, cash, copies of important documents) and use your storage unit for the bulky items that make your home and yard more vulnerable. Re-check your kit at the start of every June.
Frequently asked questions
When is hurricane season in Texas?
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.
What size unit do I need for patio furniture and garage overflow?
Most households fit patio furniture, a grill and garage overflow in a 5x20.
Can I store a propane tank?
No. Never store propane, gasoline or other flammable materials in a storage unit.
Ready to grab a unit?
See live prices and current move-in specials, then rent online in about five minutes. 24/7 access, fully fenced.
