Hurricane Preparation in Florida: The Complete Homeowner Checklist
Hurricane preparation in Florida is not optional. Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, and South Florida sits in the most hurricane-active zone in the continental United States. Homeowners who prepare before June 1 every year spend less money and recover faster after storms hit.
Physical preparation checklist
- Storm shutters or impact glass: every window and door must be protected before a named storm arrives
- Roof inspection: have a licensed roofer check straps, flashing, and shingles each spring
- Generator: whole-house units run $8,000–20,000 installed; portable generators cost $500–2,000
- Garage door bracing kit: garage doors are the top failure point in hurricane winds
- Tree trimming: remove branches within 10 feet of the structure each season
Supply kit for 7 days
FEMA recommends a minimum of seven days of supplies. One gallon of water per person per day. Non-perishable food. Prescription medications. Battery-powered radio. First aid kit. Cash. Copies of insurance, deed, and medical records in a waterproof container.
Insurance review every April
Review your homeowners, wind, and flood policies before the season starts. Know your hurricane deductible: in Florida it is typically 2–5% of insured value, not a flat dollar amount. On a $500,000 home with a 2% hurricane deductible, you pay the first $10,000 of damage out of pocket. See South Florida hurricane insurance for current coverage costs.
Evacuation plan
Know your evacuation zone before a storm forms. Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade publish mandatory evacuation maps online. Book hotel reservations before a watch is posted. Waiting until a warning is issued means no rooms within 500 miles.
For personalized guidance on buying or selling in South Florida, contact the team at Pure Equity Realty. We serve Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, St. Lucie, and Highlands counties with expert representation and a 1% listing fee.
Onias Derilus is the Broker/Owner of Pure Equity Realty, a South Florida brokerage specializing in 1% listing commissions and free buyer representation across Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, St. Lucie, and Highlands counties. He holds an NMLS mortgage originator license and founded Mortgage Capital and Verified Title to serve clients through every step of the transaction.