What to Do Immediately After a Hurricane or Tropical Storm Hits: A Guide for Florida Homeowners

As hurricane season reaches its peak in Florida, it’s crucial to be prepared for the worst. If a hurricane or tropical storm hits and leaves damage in its wake, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference in protecting your home and ensuring a smooth recovery process.

1. Ensure Safety First

Before assessing any damage, make sure it’s safe to go outside. Watch out for downed power lines, standing water, or debris that could pose a hazard. If you evacuated, only return when local authorities have declared it safe to do so.

2. Document the Damage

As soon as it’s safe, thoroughly document any damage to your property. Take photos and videos of every affected area—both exterior and interior. Capture as much detail as possible, including structural damage, water intrusion, and any belongings that have been damaged. This documentation will be crucial when filing your insurance claim.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve documented the damage, contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Provide them with the photos and videos you’ve taken, along with a detailed list of damaged items. Be sure to follow any instructions they give you, as they may want to send an adjuster to assess the damage in person.

4. Prevent Further Damage: Mitigation is Key

Your next step is to prevent any additional damage to your home. Insurance policies typically require homeowners to take reasonable steps to protect their property from further harm, so this is a critical part of the process.

• Temporary Repairs: Cover broken windows, damaged roofs, or any other openings with tarps or plywood to keep out rain and debris.

• Water Removal: If your home has been flooded, start removing water as soon as possible. Standing water can lead to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours, so time is of the essence.

• Dry Out Your Home: Use dehumidifiers, fans, and open windows to help dry out your home. Removing moisture is crucial to preventing mold and further structural damage.

5. Call in the Professionals

For significant damage, it’s essential to bring in professionals to assess and repair your home. Hiring a licensed contractor experienced in hurricane damage repair can save you time, money, and stress. A contractor can:

• Cut and Remove Drywall: If your walls have been exposed to water, a contractor can cut and remove the affected drywall to prevent mold growth and assess the extent of the damage.

• Assist with Dryout: They’ll have the necessary equipment to properly dry out your home, minimizing the risk of mold and structural issues.

• Provide a Detailed Repair Estimate: This can be used when negotiating your insurance claim, ensuring that you receive adequate compensation for the repairs needed.

6. Protect Your Assets

Once you’ve mitigated the immediate damage, start planning for permanent repairs and consider additional protective measures to safeguard your home from future storms. This could include:

• Upgrading to Impact-Resistant Windows: These windows can withstand strong winds and flying debris, reducing the risk of breakage.

• Installing Storm Shutters: These provide an extra layer of protection for your windows and doors during a storm.

• Strengthening Your Roof: Reinforce your roof with hurricane straps or clips to help it withstand high winds.

7. Stay Informed and Prepared

Finally, stay informed about future storms and be ready to act quickly. Have an emergency kit prepared, and ensure you understand your insurance coverage before the next storm hits. By staying vigilant and prepared, you can minimize the impact of hurricanes and tropical storms on your home and family.

Hurricane season in Florida is no joke, but by taking the right steps immediately after a storm, you can protect your property, ensure your family’s safety, and get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

For quick assistance after a storm, give our team a call at 941-979-2773.