Whether you live by the sea year-round or you own investment properties near the water, part of being a coastal homeowner means being prepared for hurricanes. Typically, hurricane season runs from June through November, with Southern, coastal states seeing the largest impact from storms. To ensure your property is fully prepared for high winds and heavy rains, here are a few things you can do now.

3 Ways to Get Your House Hurricane-Ready

1. Start an Emergency Kit

Power outages are common during hurricanes, and in some cases, residents in areas hit the hardest may be left without electricity for days. To keep your home and its occupants prepared, stock up on flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and nonperishable foods. Plan to have one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. Stock up your first-aid kit with supplies and invest in a radio.

2. Review Your Homeowners Insurance

If you haven’t done so recently, now’s the time to review the homeowners insurance plan for any house you own, including investment properties. While most plans provide coverage for high winds, many don’t include flood coverage. Take out additional flood insurance if you live in a vulnerable area. If you own apartments, check your insurance policies for specific coverage and make changes as needed.

3. Inspect & Prep Your Property

High winds and heavy rains are more likely to cause damage to weak spots, so make sure your home is primed to withstand severe weather. Have your gutters cleaned and inspect your roof for any damage that should be repaired before the season approaches. Install storm shutters to keep your windows protected—if the property is unoccupied, reinforcing them using plywood can suffice. Repeat these processes for any investment properties you own to safeguard all of your houses or apartments.

While coastal areas like Florida see their fair share of storms, they remain among the most desirable places to live and vacation. If you own investment properties in the Tri-County, FL, area and are seeking a team to help you oversee your property management activities, turn to HMI. These trusted partners offer tailored service plans for accounting, day-to-day operations, and other activities to help you manage your properties and tenants with ease. Learn more about their services online or call (407) 628-1086 to speak with a team member.