Hurricane Season 2025: Essential Preparation Steps for Florida Homeowners

As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, Florida homeowners need to take proactive steps before the official June 1st start date. With forecasts predicting up to 18 tropical storms and potentially 3-6 major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher this year, preparation is more important than ever.

Prepare Your Home Now

Don't wait until a storm is approaching to strengthen your property. Consider these structural improvements:

• Install impact-resistant windows and doors or add storm shutters

• Use 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood as an economical alternative for window protection

• Reinforce garage doors with a bracing kit or replace with hurricane-rated doors

• Ensure exterior doors have at least three hinges and a deadbolt lock

Insurance Policy Review Checklist

Before hurricane season begins:

1. Verify coverage amounts: Ensure your policy limits reflect current rebuilding costs

2. Understand deductibles: Review your hurricane deductible (typically 2-5% of your home's insured value)

3. Confirm flood coverage: Remember, standard homeowners policies don't cover flooding or storm surge

4. Review exclusions: Know what's specifically not covered in your policy

5. Check additional living expenses coverage: Understand limits if you're displaced

Document Your Property's Pre-Storm Condition

Creating comprehensive documentation now will be invaluable if you need to file a claim:

1. Take clear photographs and videos of your entire home (exterior and interior)

2. Document all valuable possessions with close-up images

3. Store digital copies in cloud storage and physical copies in waterproof containers

4. Create a detailed inventory of high-value items with purchase receipts when available

Don't wait until the last minute. Contact Innocent Law Firm today if you have questions about preparing your insurance documentation before hurricane season arrives.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.