Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Southwest Florida has seen serious storms, including Charley in 2004, Irma in 2017 and Ian in 2022, and storm surge, wind and flooding can all cause damage. The best time to prepare is before the season starts. If you're away for summer, also read our guide for absentee owners.
Before the season (by May)
- Know your zones. Look up your evacuation zone and flood zone through Lee, Collier or Charlotte County emergency management. Evacuation orders are issued by zone.
- Check your insurance. Know your hurricane deductible, whether you have flood coverage (standard homeowners policies typically exclude flood), and how to file a claim. Flood policies often have a waiting period before they take effect.
- Document your home. Take dated photos and video of the exterior, roof, every room and valuables. Store copies and policies online.
- Plan your opening protection. Decide how you'll cover windows and doors: shutters or storm panels, or impact windows and doors. Make sure panels are labeled and hardware is on hand.
- Have the roof checked. A roofer can spot loose tiles, shingles or flashing. A wind mitigation inspection may also lower your premium.
- Trim trees. Have a landscaper trim trees and palms away from the roof and screen enclosure.
- Consider backup power. If you plan to use a generator, have it serviced, and keep portable units outside and away from windows.
Build a kit
- Water and non-perishable food for several days for everyone in the house, including pets.
- Medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries and a battery or hand-crank radio.
- Phone chargers and power banks, cash, copies of documents and insurance information.
- Tarps, plastic sheeting, duct tape, contractor bags and basic tools.
When a storm is forecast
- Follow the National Hurricane Center and your county emergency management for watches, warnings and evacuation orders.
- Book shutter installation early. Crews fill up quickly once SWFL is in the forecast cone.
- Bring in lanai furniture, plants, grills and anything that can blow away.
- Ask your pool company how to prepare the pool. Many advise against draining it.
- Fill your car's gas tank, charge devices and move valuables off the floor in flood-prone areas.
- If you're told to evacuate, go. Most evacuations only need to be tens of miles, not hundreds.
After the storm
- Stay away from downed power lines and floodwater, and wait for officials to say it's safe to return.
- Photograph all damage before cleanup, and make temporary repairs, such as tarping, to prevent further damage. Keep receipts.
- Call your insurer promptly to start a claim.
- Be cautious of door-to-door contractors. Check licenses at myfloridalicense.com, get written estimates, and don't sign over insurance benefits under pressure.
- Check for hidden water damage and mold. A mold assessor can help if you smell mustiness.
- Have your screen enclosure, roof and fences inspected.
General information only. It is not legal, insurance or engineering advice. Check with your insurer, HOA and licensed professionals.
More guides: Snowbird Home Checklist for Southwest Florida · How to Choose a Pool Cage & Lanai Screen Company · The Snowbird's Closing Checklist for a Southwest Florida Home · Hurricane Prep for Absentee Owners · How to Choose a Home Watch Company in Southwest Florida · Shipping Your Car South: A Snowbird's Guide · Opening Your Southwest Florida Home for the Season