Hurricane season runs June-November, with peak danger in September and October. As Florida homeowners, we need to be prepared. Here's a comprehensive guide to protecting your home and family.
Before Hurricane Season: Home Hardening
The best hurricane protection happens before the storm threatens. Invest in these improvements:
- Hurricane-Resistant Windows & Doors: Impact-resistant windows cost $30-50 per window but prevent catastrophic damage. Many insurance companies offer 15-20% discounts for these upgrades.
- Roof Inspection & Reinforcement: A properly secured roof prevents wind from lifting it off. Replace loose or missing shingles. Consider roof straps ($1-3K for most homes).
- Garage Door Reinforcement: A failed garage door allows wind into your home, causing interior damage. Install a garage door reinforcement kit ($500-1000).
- Seal Cracks & Gaps: Wind finds every opening. Caulk and seal around windows, doors, and utility penetrations.
Flood Insurance: Don't Wait
Wind damage is covered by homeowners insurance, but flooding is not. Flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period, so buy it now — don't wait for a storm threat when everyone's buying at once.
Flood insurance costs $500-3000+/year depending on flood zone and elevation. For homes in high-risk zones, it's non-negotiable.
As a Hurricane Approaches
- Stock food, water (1 gallon/person/day for 3 days minimum), medications, and batteries
- Fill your bathtub with water for toilet flushing if the water supply is cut off
- Board windows with plywood or install storm shutters
- Trim trees and remove dead branches
- Secure outdoor furniture and objects that could become projectiles
- Back up important documents and photos to the cloud
- Fill your fuel tank — gas stations close or run out during storms
After the Hurricane
Document all damage with photos and videos for insurance claims. Don't throw away damaged items until adjusters inspect them. Stay off the roads — they'll be congested and dangerous.
Buying a new home before hurricane season? Inspect the roof, windows, and seawall condition. A home built to modern codes will weather storms better than older construction.