Top Five Tips on Hurricane Preparation

For the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, NOAA projects a significant increase in tropical storm activity. The forecast anticipates 17 to 25 named storms with winds reaching at least 39 mph. Within this group, 8 to 13 are expected to escalate into hurricanes, achieving winds of 74 mph or higher. Additionally, 4 to 7 of these hurricanes could reach major status as category 3, 4, or 5 storms, featuring winds surpassing 111 mph. Forecasters express a 70% confidence level in these predictions. [1].

As a Florida homeowner, if even one of these hurricanes makes landfall near you, it’s vital that you are well-prepared.

Following are five tips to help make sure that you are ready to literally “weather the storm”:

1. Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage.

Review the Declarations page of your homeowner insurance policy so you understand what is covered and what your deductibles are. Make sure to save a copy of the policy in a waterproof container.

2. Document your home and landscaping condition.

Take photos and videos of each room of your home, your possessions, the exterior of your home, and your landscaping. In case you sustain hurricane damage, you can use these to show the insurance company evidence of your home’s condition pre-hurricane.

3. Ensure your home is as hurricane damage-resistant as possible.

Inspect and test your hurricane shutters to make sure they are fully functional. Clean your gutters to minimize the chance of them backing up and causing water damage. Inspect your roof to see if any tiles or shingles need repair. If the National Weather Service advises that a hurricane may come your way, take in or tie down all outdoor furniture, toys, and anything else that could become a projectile in the wind.

4. Create your evacuation plan.

Determine specifically where you will go, what you will bring, and how you will get there. Keep in mind that the roads are likely to be congested and hotels/motels may be at capacity. Make a plan for what you will do with your pets.

5. Create a disaster supply kit.

Your kit should include essential items to last for 1-2 weeks including: medications, flashlights, batteries, battery-operated radio, cash, clothing, first aid supplies, non-perishable food, bottled water, essential documents such as insurance cards, credit cards, homeowner insurance policy, and other supplies, such as face masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes.

If you do find yourself in the path of a hurricane, once the storm passes and you assess the damage, contact the expert public adjusters at United Claims Specialists. They will negotiate on with your insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum possible coverage for your losses.

When you have damage to your home or business, it can be daunting.  Dealing with your insurance company can be incredibly stressful.  Do not let your inexperience dealing with the insurance company cost you time and money!  Our team at United Claims Specialists is here to provide you with the best service so you get the highest settlement for your claim.

United Claims Specialists has a team of experienced, dedicated, and professional public adjusters who work for you to ensure you receive the settlement you deserve when your property or business has property damage.  We work on both residential and commercial claims and will make sure that your loss is handled quickly and properly and that you get the highest settlement possible.

With offices throughout Florida, New York and New Jersey, United Claims Specialists have helped thousands of home and business owners around the country.  Contact us today so we can help you.

[1] NOAA National Weather Service NOAA predicts above-normal 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Accessed May 23, 2024.