Hurricane Prep: Protecting Your Home, Belongings, and Family

Before the storm: around the roof and outside

Most roof damage starts at a weak point that was already there. Look before the wind arrives, from the ground — never climb onto a roof when a storm is approaching.

• Clear gutters and downspouts so heavy rain can drain away from the roof and foundation.
• Bring in or tie down patio furniture, grills, planters, and anything that can become a projectile.
• Trim or note dead limbs hanging over the roof; call a professional for large branches.
• Look for lifted or missing shingles, loose flashing, or damaged soffits you can see from the yard.
• Install shutters or close impact-rated openings early, not when the wind starts.

Document your home before anything happens

Photos taken before a storm are the best record of your home's condition. They help you, your insurer, and any contractor understand what changed.

• Walk the outside of the house and photograph every side of the roof you can see.
• Record a slow video of each room, inside closets, and your valuables.
• Save your policy, photos, and important papers to the cloud or a waterproof bag.

Protect your family first

No roof, car, or belonging is worth anyone's safety. Know your evacuation zone, have a plan for pets and medications, and follow instructions from local officials.

• Build a kit with water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and chargers.
• Know your evacuation zone and where you would go.
• Fill prescriptions and fuel your car before the rush.

After the storm

Stay off the roof and away from downed lines. If water is coming in, move belongings away from the leak, catch water where it is safe to do so, and photograph the damage. Then call for an emergency tarp to prevent further damage.

Be cautious of anyone knocking on doors right after a storm asking you to sign something on the spot. Ask for a Florida contractor license number and look it up before you sign anything.