Winter Storm Prep Checklist for Eastern NC Homeowners

Winter Storm Prep Checklist for Eastern NC Homeowners

What to do 24 Hours Before, the Day Of, and the Day After

Winter storms in Eastern North Carolina can be unpredictable—one forecast can mean light flurries, and the next can bring freezing rain, power outages, and slick roads. The good news: a little preparation goes a long way toward protecting your home (and your peace of mind). Use this simple, local-friendly checklist to get ready 24 hours before the storm, stay safe during, and recover smart after.

24 Hours Before the Storm: Prepare and Prevent

✅ Protect your plumbing

• Cover outdoor spigots (hose bibs) and disconnect hoses

• Wrap exposed pipes in crawlspaces, garages, and exterior walls

• If temperatures are expected to hit below freezing, let faucets drip slowly overnight

• Know where your main water shutoff is (and make sure it turns)

✅ Get your home “power-outage ready”

• Charge phones, battery packs, and cordless tool batteries

• Test flashlights and stock extra batteries

• Set out lanterns (safer than candles)

• If you have a generator, test it now and ensure it’s set up for outdoor-only use

✅ Stock essentials (don’t overthink it)

• Drinking water (about 1 gallon per person per day)

• Easy meals that don’t require cooking

• Baby/pet supplies, medications, and first-aid items

• Hand warmers, blankets, and extra layers

✅ Walk your property (quick “storm proof” lap)

• Bring in or secure porch furniture, plants, and trash cans

• Check gutters and downspouts for major clogs

• Park vehicles away from large, questionable branches

✅ If you’re selling or leaving town

• Set thermostat to at least 60°F

• Ask a neighbor to check in if the storm is expected to be severe

• Turn off water to exterior hose lines if possible

The Day Of the Storm: Stay Safe and Reduce Risk

✅ Keep the house warm and steady

• Maintain consistent heat (don’t try to “save money” by turning it way down)

• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to let warm air circulate

• Keep interior doors open to allow airflow

✅ Watch for warning signs

• No water / very low flow could mean pipes are freezing

• Water spots on ceilings/walls could signal a leak starting

• Smell of gas = leave immediately and call the utility provider

✅ Use space heaters safely

• Keep heaters 3 feet away from anything flammable

• Plug directly into the wall (avoid power strips)

• Never leave them running unattended or while sleeping

✅ Avoid unnecessary driving

Eastern NC roads can freeze fast—especially bridges and overpasses. If you don’t have to drive, don’t. If you do:

• Drive slow, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking

The Day After: Inspect, Document, and Recover

✅ Check your plumbing first

• Walk through and look for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and at water heaters

• Check crawlspace access points for dampness

• If you suspect a frozen pipe, don’t crank the heat with the water on full—thaw carefully and consider calling a pro

✅ Inspect your exterior

• Look for fallen limbs, roof damage, and displaced gutters

• Check outdoor spigots and exposed piping for cracks once things warm up

✅ If you lost power

• Check refrigerator/freezer temperatures before eating anything questionable

• Reset breakers carefully and watch for repeated trips

• If you used a generator, let it cool and store fuel safely

✅ If you have damage

• Take photos/video immediately

• Save receipts (supplies, hotel stays, temporary repairs)

• Contact insurance early, and avoid permanent repairs until documented

Quick “Winter Storm Kit” List (Easy Version)

• Flashlights + batteries

• Phone chargers + power bank

• Water + shelf-stable food

• First aid + prescription meds

• Blankets + warm clothing

• Paper plates/utensils (helpful if water is limited)

Eastern NC Real Estate Note

Storm prep isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your home’s value. Burst pipes, roof leaks, and water damage can create expensive repairs and insurance headaches, especially in crawlspace-heavy homes common in our area.

If you have questions about storm prep for your specific home—or you’re thinking about buying/selling and want to know what to look for in winter conditions—Rowland & The Home Sales Team is here to help.