Back in May, we shared our guide on what Florida homeowners should do before hurricane season. Now, with peak hurricane season only weeks away, it’s time for a quick check-in.

Hurricane preparedness isn’t just about knowing what to do—it’s about making sure you’ve actually done it. If any of these important tasks are still on your to-do list, now is the time to tackle them.

Here Is Your Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Ask yourself:

• Do you know your deductibles?
• Do you understand what your policy covers?
• Have you reviewed your coverage limits?
• Do you know that flood damage is generally not covered by homeowners insurance?

Once a storm is named and threatening an area, insurance options may become limited. If there are any changes you need to make to your coverage, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible.

Document Your Home and Belongings

• Take current photos and videos of your home and belongings.
• Save important records digitally or in a secure location.
• Update any home inventory lists you created in previous years.

Having up-to-date documentation can help make the claims process smoother if damage occurs.

Check Your Emergency Supplies

Review your hurricane kit and make sure you have:

• Water
• Non-perishable food
• Batteries
• Medications
• Pet supplies
• Fire extinguishers (check expiration dates)
• A portable generator and extension cords (remember generators should always be operated outdoors and away from the home)
• Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

As an added benefit, some hurricane preparedness items are permanently tax-exempt in Florida. For more information, visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Exemption webpage.

Don’t assume last year’s hurricane kit is still ready to go. Check expiration dates, replace used items, and restock supplies now. Waiting until a storm is in the forecast could mean long lines, limited inventory, and empty shelves.

Inspect Your Home

Take time to inspect your property and address potential hazards:

• Clean gutters and drains
• Trim trees and remove weak branches
• Secure or store outdoor furniture and decorations
• Check garage doors for proper operation
• Inspect storm shutters for damage, missing hardware, or corrosion
• Make sure you know where your shutters are stored and have the tools needed to install them

If your home is equipped with hurricane shutters, don’t wait until a storm is approaching to inspect them. Ensure they are in working condition and can be installed quickly if needed. Make sure you know where they are stored and that all necessary hardware and tools are readily available.

If your home does not have hurricane shutters, consider whether they may be a worthwhile investment. Hurricane shutters can help protect windows and doors from windborne debris and may reduce storm-related damage. If you have installed hurricane shutters or other wind-mitigation features recently, be sure to notify your insurance carrier. You may qualify for additional insurance discounts.

Review Your Family’s Hurricane Plan

Make sure everyone in your household knows:

• Evacuation routes
• Designated meeting locations
• Emergency contact information
• Plans for pets

A clear plan can help reduce stress and confusion if severe weather threatens your area.

Don’t Wait for the First Warning

Every year, many homeowners tell themselves they’ll get prepared “next weekend.” Then a tropical storm forms, store shelves empty, and flood insurance’s 30-day waiting period becomes a costly reality.

With peak hurricane season approaching, now is the time to complete any remaining items on your preparedness checklist. A few hours of preparation today can make a significant difference when the next storm is headed your way.

The best time to prepare was before hurricane season began. The second-best time is today.