Hurricane Preparedness Checklist for Florida Homeowners
Before Hurricane Season (June 1 – November 30)
Exterior Preparation
☐ Inspect roof for loose or damaged shingles
☐ Clean gutters and downspouts
☐ Trim trees and remove dead branches
☐ Secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations
☐ Check fencing, gates, and sheds for stability
☐ Inspect exterior doors and windows for proper seals
☐ Review hurricane shutter installation procedures
☐ Verify garage door reinforcement systems are functioning properly
Home Systems
☐ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
☐ Service HVAC system
☐ Inspect water heater for leaks or corrosion
☐ Locate and label main water shut-off valve
☐ Locate electrical panel and circuit breakers
☐ Test generator (if applicable)
☐ Store extra fuel safely for generators
Insurance & Documentation
☐ Review homeowners insurance coverage
☐ Confirm flood insurance coverage (if applicable)
☐ Photograph and video each room of the home
☐ Save copies of important documents in a waterproof container
☐ Store digital copies in cloud storage
When a Storm Is Forecast
72 Hours Before Expected Impact
☐ Monitor official weather updates
☐ Fuel vehicles
☐ Charge phones, power banks, and backup batteries
☐ Withdraw cash
☐ Refill prescription medications
☐ Purchase food and water supplies
☐ Freeze containers of water to help keep food cold if power is lost
48 Hours Before Expected Impact
☐ Install hurricane shutters
☐ Bring all outdoor items inside
☐ Move vehicles to higher ground if flooding is possible
☐ Set refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings
☐ Fill bathtubs with water for sanitation purposes
☐ Charge all electronic devices
24 Hours Before Expected Impact
☐ Complete final property walk-around
☐ Close and secure all windows and doors
☐ Unplug non-essential electronics
☐ Move valuables and important documents to elevated locations
☐ Follow local evacuation orders if issued
Emergency Supply Kit
Water
☐ One gallon per person per day for at least 7 days
Food
☐ 7-day supply of non-perishable food
☐ Manual can opener
Safety Supplies
☐ Flashlights
☐ Extra batteries
☐ First aid kit
☐ Portable weather radio
☐ Fire extinguisher
☐ Multi-tool
Personal Items
☐ Prescription medications
☐ Hygiene supplies
☐ Pet food and supplies
☐ Extra clothing
☐ Blankets
Electronics
☐ Power banks
☐ Phone chargers
☐ Generator extension cords (if applicable)
After the Storm
☐ Wait for official "all clear" announcements
☐ Watch for downed power lines
☐ Check for gas leaks and water intrusion
☐ Document any damage with photos before cleanup
☐ Contact insurance company promptly
☐ Remove standing water to help prevent mold growth
☐ Schedule a professional property inspection if damage is suspected
Why Home Check Gurus Recommends Regular
Property Checks
Many hurricane-related issues begin as small problems that go unnoticed—roof leaks, clogged gutters, failing seals, moisture intrusion, or damaged exterior components. Regular home watch visits can help identify concerns before they become costly repairs, especially for seasonal residents and absentee homeowners.
Need someone to check on your home before or after a storm? Home Check Gurus provides professional home watch services throughout Bradenton and surrounding areas, giving homeowners peace of mind when they can't be there themselves.
