Updated 2025
Hurricane season in Orlando can be challenging, but with proper preparation, you can protect your home and family. Here’s a thorough guide to help you get ready for the season, handle a hurricane, and manage the aftermath effectively.
GENERAL PREPAREDNESS
Emergency Plan: Establish a family communication plan. Know where to meet and who to contact in case you get separated.
Emergency Kits: Prepare kits with essentials: water, non-perishable food, medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
Family Communication: Make sure everyone in your family knows the emergency plan and has a list of emergency contacts.
Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a plan for where to stay if you need to evacuate.
Community Resources: Identify nearby shelters and know the policies for pets and special needs.
Potential Power Outages: Have a backup plan for power outages. Consider a generator and stock up on batteries and battery-powered devices.
Roof and Gutters: Ensure your roof is in good condition and gutters are clear to prevent water damage.
Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs to minimize the risk of debris causing damage.
Technology Tools: Download apps like FEMA, MyRadar, or your local emergency management app to stay informed.
Flood Zone Awareness: Check if you're in a flood zone using FEMA's Flood Map Service Center, even if you’re inland.
BEFORE A HURRICANE
Assess if You Need to Leave or Can Stay: Depending on the severity of the hurricane, decide whether it’s safer to evacuate or stay. Follow local authorities' recommendations.
Weather Updates and Alerts: Keep track of weather reports from reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center.
Secure Your Property: Install storm shutters or use plywood to cover windows. Secure doors and reinforce garage doors.
Outdoor Furniture: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and any items that could become projectiles in high winds.
Generator Safety: If using a generator, test it ahead of time. Always run it outdoors and away from doors or windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Pool Owners: Lower water levels slightly, avoid using the pool cover, and store poolside equipment securely.
DURING A HURRICANE
Stay Informed: Keep listening to weather updates and instructions from local authorities.
Stay Indoors: Stay inside and away from windows and doors. Use a small, interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
Emergency Supplies: Have your emergency kit and supplies nearby. Keep flashlights and a battery-powered radio within reach.
Power Outages: If the power goes out, use battery-powered lights rather than candles to reduce the risk of fire.
Avoid Floodwaters: Stay out of floodwaters, which can contain dangerous debris and be deeper than they appear.
AFTER THE HURRICANE
Wait for Official All-Clear: Do not go outside until authorities declare it safe.
Check for Damage: Carefully inspect your home for damage. Be cautious of downed power lines, broken glass, and other hazards.
Document Damage: Take photos and videos of any damage for insurance purposes.
Avoid Floodwaters: Continue to avoid floodwaters, which can be contaminated and dangerous.
Use Caution When Driving: Be careful on the roads, as they may be damaged or flooded.
FILING INSURANCE CLAIMS
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Document Everything: Provide detailed documentation of damage, including photos, videos, and an inventory of damaged items.
Keep Receipts: Save all receipts for expenses related to temporary repairs, lodging, and meals if you had to evacuate.
Follow Up: Stay in contact with your insurance company and follow up regularly on the status of your claim.
Tax Tip: If you experience storm-related damage not covered by insurance, speak with a CPA to see if you qualify for a casualty loss deduction on your taxes.
FOR VACATION HOME AND INVESTMENT PROPERTY OWNERS
SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
Work Closely with Your Property Manager: Ensure your manager has a clear hurricane preparation and response plan in place specific to your home. Communicate early and confirm that storm protocols are being followed.
Work Closely with Your Property Manager: Ensure your manager has a clear hurricane preparation and response plan in place specific to your home. Communicate early and confirm that storm protocols are being followed.
Provide a Preparation Checklist: Share a detailed list tailored to your property—securing outdoor furniture, checking storm shutters, confirming backup power options, and ensuring gutters and drainage systems are clear.
Remote Monitoring: Consider enhancing your setup with home monitoring devices (cameras, leak sensors, temperature monitors) that allow both you and your manager to stay informed in real time.
Insurance Information: Keep an easily accessible digital file of your insurance policy and claims contact information. Share it with your manager or a trusted emergency contact.
Status Updates: Request pre- and post-storm photos and updates from your property manager to help document conditions and quickly assess any damage.
CONDOS & TOWNHOMES
Coordinate with the HOA and Your Property Manager: Stay informed about the building’s hurricane protocols, including what responsibilities fall under the HOA versus unit owners. Ensure your manager has a direct line of communication with HOA representatives.
Interior Storm Prep: Instruct your property manager to secure balcony items, unplug electronics, check for potential water entry points, and safeguard important documents or valuables if stored on site.
Emergency Communication: Confirm your property manager is on all building emergency contact lists and can relay updates to you quickly.
Post-Storm Checks: Have your property manager inspect the interior of your unit as soon as it’s safe, especially if power outages, leaks, or water intrusion are suspected. Prompt documentation can expedite any insurance claims.
Coordinate with the HOA and Your Property Manager: Stay informed about the building’s hurricane protocols, including what responsibilities fall under the HOA versus unit owners. Ensure your manager has a direct line of communication with HOA representatives.
Interior Storm Prep: Instruct your property manager to secure balcony items, unplug electronics, check for potential water entry points, and safeguard important documents or valuables if stored on site.
Emergency Communication: Confirm your property manager is on all building emergency contact lists and can relay updates to you quickly.
Post-Storm Checks: Have your property manager inspect the interior of your unit as soon as it’s safe, especially if power outages, leaks, or water intrusion are suspected. Prompt documentation can expedite any insurance claims.
EXTRA TIPS
Backup Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents in a waterproof container and back them up digitally.
Stay Healthy: Have a supply of prescription medications and a first aid kit. Be mindful of stress and take care of your mental health.
Pet Preparedness: Include pet supplies in your emergency kit and know pet-friendly shelters and hotels.
Financial Preparedness: Keep some cash on hand, as ATMs and card readers may not work during power outages.
Community Engagement: Get to know your neighbors and develop a community plan to check on each other during and after a hurricane.
Preparing for hurricane season in Orlando requires careful planning and proactive measures. By following these guidelines, you can protect your home, ensure your family’s safety, and navigate the challenges of a hurricane with greater confidence. For more information or assistance with your real estate needs, feel free to contact us at Story Group. We’re here to help you every step of the way. Stay safe!
