Florida property owners should be advised that experts are predicting a wild hurricane season for 2017. An above-average number of storms are expected to hit the Atlantic.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts between 5 and 9 hurricanes between June and November.
As property managers in Orlando we personally know how important it is to not be caught unprepared for hurricane season. You can take preventative measures to protect your property from hurricane and storm damage. There are a number of ways you can prepare, but here are some great steps to follow to get a head start on this hurricane season:
1. Review Your Insurance Policy
Homeowners should review their insurance policies on an annual basis. You want to make sure that you’re not only insured for the home’s value but the cost of a possible rebuild. Homebuilding costs are rising year over year, so you want to make sure your policy reflects these increases.
2. Seal and Secure Your Roof
The most damage to a home caused by a hurricane usually occurs to the roof. You want to make sure your roof is properly secured with braces and hurricane straps. The roofing material also needs to be properly sealed to prevent water leaks seeping into the attic, which can cause your ceiling to collapse. Eventually, this may damage the interior of the home, including your possessions.
3. Secure Windows and Doors
Windows should have hurricane shutters that are approved and installed by licensed contractors. You’ll also want to make sure the sealant material around your windows and doors is strong. Hot weather can weaken weather stripping. Don’t forget about reinforcing your garage doors as well.
4. Remove Items from the Lawn and Yards
Patio furniture, grills and garden decor items can easily get swept away by the wind’s force and can easily become dangerous projectiles that can cause severe injury and damage to your home. Bring all outdoor items inside or secure them to the ground properly.
5. Remove Broken and Damaged Trees
Take a look at the trees on your property as well as your neighbor’s. It’s important to trim or remove damaged trees and broken limbs. This will prevent them from being picked up by gusts of wind and sending a branch through your window.
The goal of preparing your home for hurricane season should be to mitigate as much as damage as possible. By planning ahead you can ensure your property remains as intact as possible and you keep yourself and your family safe. This list is not meant to be exhaustive, please check with your local and state authorities as well.
