Florida Hurricane Preparedness Guide: Insurance Tips & Emergency Checklist for Homeowners
Be Ready Before the Storm Hits
At Bridges Insurance Agency, we understand the unique challenges Florida homeowners face during hurricane season. From tropical storms to major hurricanes, the risks are real — but with proper planning and the right insurance protection, you can weather the storm with confidence. This guide will help you prepare your home, protect your family, and understand your insurance coverage before a hurricane strikes.
1. Review Your Hurricane Insurance Coverage
Before hurricane season begins, review your Florida homeowners insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate protection.
What to check:
- Does your policy include hurricane or windstorm coverage?
- What is your hurricane deductible?
- Is your dwelling coverage limit high enough to rebuild at current construction costs?
- Are your personal belongings covered sufficiently?
- Do you have separate flood insurance? (Most Florida homeowners policies do not cover flooding.)
Need help? Contact our team at Bridges Insurance Agency for a free, local policy review.
2. Prepare Your Home Ahead of the Storm
Taking proactive steps to secure your property can reduce damage and speed up recovery after a storm.
Hurricane home preparation checklist:
- Trim trees and remove loose debris from your yard
- Install storm shutters or secure plywood over windows
- Reinforce garage doors and secure outdoor furniture
- Test your generator and store extra fuel safely
- Take photos or video of your home and belongings for claims documentation
3. Create a Family Emergency Plan
Planning ahead can make all the difference.
Your plan should include:
- A designated safe room or evacuation route
- Contact info for family, neighbors, and emergency services
- A communication plan in case cell towers go down
- Pet care arrangements if you need to evacuate
4. Stock an Emergency Supply Kit
Have enough supplies to last at least 3 to 5 days without power or access to stores.
Essentials include:
- Bottled water and non-perishable food
- Flashlights, batteries, candles, matches
- First aid kit and prescription medications
- Cash (ATMs and card readers may not work)
- Hygiene and cleaning supplies
- Important documents in a waterproof container
- Pet food, leashes, and carriers
For the official Florida Disaster Supply Kit Checklist, click here.
5. What To Do After the Storm
If your home suffers damage during a hurricane:
- Ensure everyone is safe before inspecting damage
- Take photos of all damage before making any repairs
- Contact your home insurance carrier promptly
- Keep receipts for any temporary repairs or hotel stays
- Verify licensing and insurance before hiring any contractor
Don’t Wait for the Next Storm
At Bridges Insurance Agency, we don’t just talk about hurricane preparedness — we live it. Our local Tallahassee agents are here to help you protect what matters most with reliable coverage and fast, personal service.
Contact us today to review your hurricane insurance coverage and get peace of mind before the next storm.