Hurricane isaac: top tips to protect your home

As Tropical Storm Isaac hits America's Gulf Coast, seven years to the day that Hurricane Katrina devastated homes, homeowners are prepared for the tragic damage that severe weather can cause to property.

Indeed, CoreLogic figures show that Isaac currently threatens to impact 270,000 homes, many located in New Orleans. Lots of residents have already been evacuated by the authorities, but some have chosen to stay. With the total worth of these endangered properties at an estimated $36 billion, ACE Private Risk Services have shared advice for homeowners in the event that Isaac does accelerate into a Category 2 hurricane.

Here are some top tips to help your home weather the storm:

1.       Wash out your gutters to avoid any excess build-up of water

2.       Install a backup power system in case of power cuts

3.       Reinforce your windows and doors to stop wind doing internal damage

4.       Cut back any trees that could become hazardous

5.       Secure or clear any items of furniture that might become projectiles

6.       Take out insurance on your property that includes coverage for wind and flood damage

For more advice, including details of services to help your take inventories of your property and file claims in the event of damage, read the full list at AOL Real Estate.