Business Hurricane Preparedness in South Carolina

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

by abeutler

Category: Blog

Tags: beaufort • bluffton • business insurance • Charleston • Charleston South Carolina • disaster • Hilton Head • hurricane • insurance • insurance coverage • liability • prepare • storm

Business Hurricane Preparedness South Carolina: Tips for Coastal Businesses

If you’re a business owner in the lowcountry, it’s crucial to be proactive when it comes to hurricane preparedness. With the Atlantic hurricane season running from June 1 through November 30, preparing your operations, insurance, and staff in advance could save you thousands in recovery costs.

At Schirmer Insurance Group, we specialize in helping businesses stay protected with the right insurance coverage and storm preparation strategies. In this guide, we’ll share key tips every South Carolina business should follow before the next major storm hits.

1. Review & Update Your Business Insurance

Your first line of defense is your commercial insurance policy.

First, confirm your policy includes windstorm, flood, and business interruption coverage.

Remember, many policies don’t cover flood damage — so you may need a separate flood policy if you’re near the coast.

Additionally, review your coverage with a trusted agent at least once a year to ensure your limits still make sense.

2. Back Up Data & Store Important Documents

Next, protect your business records before the storm hits:

Digitally back up accounting files, customer databases, and payroll records.
Keep printed documents — like insurance policies — in a fireproof, waterproof safe.
Moreover, store essential items in the cloud or off-site to ensure recovery is possible if your building is damaged.

3. Create a Hurricane Emergency Plan for Employees

Then, make sure everyone knows what to do if a storm approaches:

Create a clear, step-by-step emergency plan, including evacuation routes.
Designate safety officers or team leads responsible for shut-down procedures.
In addition, set up a group chat or text alert system to check on your staff during and after the storm.

4. Secure Your Building and Physical Property

After that, physically preparing your property can reduce claim costs:

Secure loose signage, outdoor furniture, and exterior equipment.
Board up windows or install hurricane shutters.
Finally, inspect your roof, gutters, and surrounding trees to minimize potential damage.

5. Keep a Thorough Inventory of Assets

Equally important, documentation will make any claim process smoother:

Take updated photos of your property and all equipment.
Maintain an inventory list stored securely in the cloud.
Also, save digital receipts and warranties for major assets.

6. Stay Informed and Monitor Local Alerts

Lastly, preparedness includes staying informed:

Download weather apps like MyRadar or NOAA Weather for real-time updates.
Sign up for local alerts through the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.
Additionally, follow your county’s emergency management offices on social media for evacuation notices and storm updates.

Protect Your Business Before the Storm

The cost of inaction can be devastating. Therefore, take the time now to build a solid hurricane preparedness plan and make sure your business insurance coverage aligns with your risks, especially while living on the South Carolina Coast.

At Schirmer Insurance Group, we’re proud to serve business owners across the Lowcountry. Whether you’re in Charleston, Beaufort, Bluffton, or Hilton Head, we’ll help you find peace of mind before, during, and after the storm.