As hurricane season approaches, building owners face the annual challenge of protecting their properties—and the people who rely on them.
From high-rise condos to public infrastructure, every structure has unique vulnerabilities, and now is the time to act.
At Walker Consultants, we’ve worked on both sides of the storm—helping clients fortify buildings in advance and investigating damage after the fact.
Our forensics and restoration experts have seen firsthand what works, what fails, and how preparation can make all the difference.
Here are key steps every building owner should plan on taking prior to commencement of hurricane season on June 1.
Assess Your Building Systems
Your building’s first line of defense against hurricane damage is its envelope—walls, windows, doors, and roof systems.
Even small breaches can lead to major water intrusion, organic growth, and costly downtime.
- Schedule a building envelope inspection. Look for signs of deterioration, improper seals, or required maintenance.
- Verify that vulnerable glazing systems can be protected from wind-borne debris impact, especially in older buildings.
- Inspect the roof for signs of uplift vulnerability, membrane damage, and flashing issues.
- For vertical transportation systems, review that controller rooms, machine rooms, and electrical spaces are protected from water intrusion where possible. Confirm sump pumps, drainage systems, and waterproofing protections serving elevator pits and lower-level equipment spaces are functional.
Understand the Risks of Wind and Water
Hurricane-force winds can exploit weaknesses in facades, drive rain sideways and dislodge unsecured equipment.
Water, both from rainfall and storm surge, is equally destructive.
Secure rooftop equipment and architectural features. Anything that isn’t anchored becomes a hazard in high winds.
Evaluate drainage systems. Blocked scuppers, downspouts, or roof drains can result in ponding water or interior leaks.
- Assess flood vulnerabilities based on location and elevation. Consider flood-resistant upgrades for critical areas.
- Review elevator pits, machine rooms, and escalator equipment areas for flood exposure. Water intrusion in these spaces can damage critical components and lead to extended outages.
Review Your Emergency Response Plan
Preparedness isn’t just physical—it’s operational.
- Have an emergency response contractor on standby for post-storm damage assessment and water mitigation.
- Document your building condition before the storm with photos and notes. This supports faster insurance claims and repair planning.
- Ensure your tenants or occupants understand emergency protocols. Communication saves lives—and property.
- Coordinate in advance with your elevator maintenance provider and vertical transportation consultant on shutdown procedures, emergency power priorities, and post-storm response roles.
Plan for Recovery—Before the Storm
After a hurricane, building owners often scramble to assess damage, manage tenant expectations, and line up repair contractors.
- Work with a consultant now to create a post-event investigation and recovery strategy.
- Understand the typical failures for your building type so you can prioritize inspections and repairs efficiently.
- Invest in materials and details that reduce long-term vulnerability. Often, the most durable upgrades are the least visible.
Ready to Strengthen Your Building?
Walker Consultants offers proactive evaluations, building envelope and vertical transportation assessments, and post-storm forensic investigation and restoration services to help building owners weather the season with confidence.
Whether you’re preparing for the next storm or recovering from the last one, we’re here to help you build smarter—and rebuild stronger.
