Crossposted from King County Local

Storm season is underway. For some in unincorporated King County, that means storm damage to property.

The King County Department of Local Services Permitting Division reminds everyone that there are steps residents can take before a natural disaster occurs to help reduce property damage, including:

• Trim any potentially dangerous trees or branches
• Clean out all chimneys
• Winterize pipes
• Keep all potential sources of fuel, such as paper, clothing, bedding, curtains, or rugs at least three feet from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
• Assure all smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working properly

For more information on how to prepare for potentially severe and winter weather, there are resources such as the International Code Council.

If property damage does occur from a storm, fire, earthquake or other natural disaster in unincorporated King County, our Permitting Division is here to help you recover as quickly as possible.

Watch the video to learn more about obtaining permits to fix property damage as a result of a natural disaster.