Florida Hurricane Season: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Property

Marwest Property Management

June 25, 2023

Property Management

Florida has a beautiful coastline, world-class beaches, and unparalleled sunshine. However, it’s also home to one of the most turbulent hurricane seasons in the world.

If you own a rental property in Florida, hurricane season can be a time of great anxiety. Not only are there potential threats to your property, but also the safety and well-being of your tenants. When it comes to protecting your rental property during Florida’s hurricane season, preparation is key, and the best way to prepare for any natural disaster is to have a plan in place that will protect your property and its occupants.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, where you’ll learn everything you need to know to keep your rental property safe during a hurricane. Additionally, we’ll share insights about the value of working with a home watch service that can provide you with peace of mind during a severe weather event.

1. Understand Your Risk

By the time hurricane season starts, you should know whether you’re in a flood zone, and have a clear understanding of your risk level. Factors that determine your risk include proximity to the coast, elevation, and the structure of your building. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a website where you can determine whether your property is in a flood zone. If your property is at risk, you may need to invest in flood insurance, which covers damages caused by flooding.

2. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Before hurricane season begins, it’s important to review your insurance policy to make sure it covers wind and flood damage. Some policies only cover wind damage, leaving your property unprotected from flooding. Make sure you have a comprehensive policy that covers all types of damage that can occur during a hurricane. You may also want to consider adding additional coverage, such as business interruption insurance, which will cover lost rental income if tenants are displaced due to hurricane damage.

3. Secure Your Property

The most effective way to prevent hurricane damage is to keep up with the regular maintenance of your property and secure it before the storm hits. Here are some essential steps to take:

• Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage
• Install storm shutters or board up windows and doors with plywood
• Trim trees and remove any loose branches that may cause damage
• Anchor any outdoor furniture or decorations that may become flying projectiles
• Secure the roof, including tiles or shingles, and seal any potential leaks
• Clear any potential fire hazards, such as debris or overgrown vegetation

4. Make An Evacuation Plan

Every Florida rental property owner should have an evacuation plan in place. Before a hurricane hits, you should inform your tenants about what they need to do in case of emergency, including evacuation protocols. You should also create a communication plan in case you need to send them messages during the hurricane season. Make sure they know the safest and quickest route to leave the property and have a designated meeting spot. Provide them with a list of emergency contacts, including your property management company, so they know who to contact in case of an emergency.

5. Work with a Home Watch Service

Even with all the necessary precautions in place, you may still worry about what’s happening with your property during a hurricane. During a hurricane, it’s useful to have eyes on your property. A home watch service can provide you with peace of mind knowing that someone is checking on your property and taking care of any issues that may arise. A reputable home watch service will regularly inspect your property, provide regular maintenance, and inform you of any issues before they get out of hand.

Hurrican Season May Seem Overwhelming

Preparing your rental property for hurricane season may seem overwhelming, but it’s essential to make sure your property and tenants are safe and secure. At Marwest Property Management, we understand the importance of keeping your investment protected and are here to help with all your property management needs. Don’t take chances when it comes to severe weather – act now to protect what matters most!