Hurricane season officially begins on June 1, and May is the best time to get ready, before there is a storm in the forecast and store shelves empty out. Preparing early is not about fear. It is about making calm decisions now so you have fewer decisions to make under pressure.

This is general guidance. Always follow instructions from local emergency management officials and the National Weather Service during an actual storm.

Start with your insurance

Review your homeowner, wind, flood and, if you own a condo, unit-owner policies. Check coverage limits, deductibles and what is and is not included. Flood damage is typically handled separately from standard homeowner coverage, and there is often a waiting period before a new flood policy takes effect, so do not leave that question until a storm appears. Call your insurance agent now with your questions.

Gather and protect your documents

• Insurance policies and agent contact information.
• Photo identification, the deed or lease, and mortgage information.
• Recent photos or a video walk-through of every room, the exterior and valuable items.
• Medical information and prescription lists.

Store copies in a waterproof bag and keep digital copies in secure cloud storage. A dated video of your home’s condition is very helpful if you ever need to file a claim.

Check the outside of the house

Walk the property and look at the roof, gutters, windows, doors, garage door and screens. Repair loose shingles, damaged seals and cracked caulk. Trim dead branches and trees that overhang the roof, using a qualified professional for anything large. Identify items that could become projectiles in strong wind, such as patio furniture, potted plants and grills, and decide where you will store them.

If you have storm shutters or panels, make sure you know where they are and that all hardware is present. Try putting them up now rather than for the first time with a storm approaching. If you need local contractors, our Preferred Vendors page is a helpful starting point.

Build a supply kit

Plan for several days without power or easy access to stores. Consider water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery or hand-crank radio, phone chargers and power banks, a first-aid kit, cash, pet supplies and basic tools. Fill your car’s gas tank when a storm is possible and keep it reasonably full during the season.

Know your zone and your plan

Find out whether your home is in an evacuation zone and where your local shelters and routes are. Volusia County and its cities publish this information. Decide in advance where you would go, how you would get there and what you would bring, including pets. Share your plan with family or friends, and agree on a way to check in.

If you own a condo

Ask your association about its storm procedures, including shutter policies, elevator shutdown, parking and re-entry. Make sure your unit is secure, and remove anything on balconies that could blow away. Our post on condo inspections and reserves covers other building questions to ask.

If you are buying or selling

Storm readiness is a normal part of buying in Florida. Buyers often ask about roof age, window protection and flood zone, and sellers who have records of upgrades and maintenance have an advantage. We are glad to help you gather that information.

After a storm

Wait for the all-clear from officials before returning. Watch for downed power lines, standing water and damaged structures. Photograph damage before cleaning up, make temporary repairs to prevent further harm and contact your insurer promptly. Keep receipts for expenses.

Make it a yearly habit

Once you have your kit, documents and plan in place, set a reminder each May to refresh them. Replace expired food and batteries, update photos after any renovation and review your insurance when your renewal arrives. A little routine now makes every season easier.

Quick answers

When should I start preparing?

Now is ideal. Early preparation is easier, cheaper and less stressful than rushing once a storm is forecast.

Does homeowners insurance cover flood?

Typically not. Flood coverage is usually separate, so ask your agent about it well ahead of the season.

What should I photograph?

Every room, the exterior, the roof as visible, and valuable items, with the date recorded.

Questions about protecting your property? Call Urbanista Realty at 386-492-7441.