Hurricane Recovery Tips

Living in Florida offers a wonderful tropical lifestyle, but it also comes with the risk of hurricanes. While preparing for a hurricane is crucial, knowing what to do after the storm passes is equally important. In the aftermath of a hurricane, homeowners often face damage to their property, power outages, and the need for urgent repairs. To help you get back on your feet, here's a step-by-step guide on how to recover from a hurricane.

1. Ensure Safety

Prioritize your safety by avoiding floodwaters and inspecting your home for structural damage before entering. If you evacuated, wait for official clearance to return.

2. Document the Damage

Before making repairs, take photos or videos of the damage for insurance purposes. Make a list of damaged items and their estimated values.

3. Contact Your Insurance

Notify your insurance provider immediately and review your policy. File a claim and keep all communication records.

4. Make Temporary Repairs

Cover broken windows and holes in the roof to prevent further damage. Remove wet items to avoid mold, but keep them for the insurance adjuster.

5. Seek Financial Assistance

Apply for FEMA assistance and check local programs for loans or grants. If needed, talk to your mortgage lender about payment forbearance.

6. Hire Trusted Contractors

Hire licensed contractors to make permanent repairs. Avoid paying upfront or accepting deals that seem too good to be true.

7. Clear Debris

Follow local guidelines for debris removal and hire professionals for larger tasks like downed trees.

8. Address Water and Mold Damage

Remove standing water quickly and use fans to dry affected areas. If necessary, hire professionals to remediate mold.

9. Stay Connected

Join local recovery groups for advice and support, and stay updated on government announcements about relief efforts.

10. Prepare for Future Storms

Reinforce your home, update insurance policies, and keep an emergency kit ready for the next hurricane.

By following these steps, you can recover more efficiently and build resilience against future storms. If you need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today. We have a network of local vendors who can help you in your recovery efforts including everything from electricians to debris removal companies.