Recovering After a Hurricane in Florida

Published: October 01, 2024

The aftermath of a hurricane can be overwhelming, especially in Florida, where severe storms frequently cause significant damage. Whether you’re dealing with flooding, power outages, or structural damage to your home, it’s important to approach recovery with a clear plan. To help you navigate the process, here’s what to do after a hurricane to ensure you and your family stay safe while getting your home back in order. 

1. Prioritize Safety First

Before anything else, your safety is the top priority. After a hurricane passes, assess your surroundings carefully. Avoid wading through floodwaters, as they may contain debris, bacteria, or even downed power lines. If you had to evacuate, don’t return home until authorities have declared it safe. Even if the storm seems to have passed, hidden dangers like unstable structures and live electrical wires can pose serious threats. Inspect your home cautiously, checking for any visible damage. If you suspect gas leaks or electrical hazards, contact professionals immediately. It’s important not to switch on lights or appliances until you’re sure it’s safe to do so.

2. Document the Damage From the Hurricane

Once you’ve ensured your safety, the next step is to document any damage to your property. This is crucial for filing insurance claims. Take clear, detailed photos and videos of every affected area, from structural damage to personal belongings. Be as thorough as possible, including damage to the exterior and interior of your home, as well as any vehicles, furniture, or landscaping that were impacted. Keep an organized record of this documentation, and consider backing up your files digitally to avoid losing important evidence during the recovery process.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

After assessing the damage, reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Filing a claim promptly can help expedite the recovery process. Be prepared to provide the documentation you gathered, and ask for clarification if you’re unsure about what your policy covers. Insurance adjusters may visit your home in person to assess the damage. Be sure to save all receipts for any immediate repairs you had to make to prevent further damage and for temporary housing if you’ve been displaced. Your insurance company may reimburse these expenses.

4. Start Cleaning up

After a hurricane, you’ll likely face the daunting task of cleaning up your property. Begin by clearing any debris from your yard and surrounding areas, but make sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and boots, especially when handling sharp or contaminated items. For water damage, time is of the essence. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours, so it’s important to start drying out your home as soon as possible. Open windows, use fans, and remove any wet materials, including carpets and furniture, to prevent mold growth. For severe flooding, you may need to call in professionals to properly dry and disinfect the affected areas.

5. Make Temporary Repairs

Before full repairs can begin, you may need to make some temporary fixes to protect your home from further damage. For instance, you can place tarps over a damaged roof or board up broken windows. These measures can help prevent additional water or wind damage in the days following the hurricane. Keep in mind that temporary repairs don’t have to be perfect, but they should be enough to secure your home until professional repairs can be made. Just make sure to document these temporary repairs for your insurance claim and save receipts.

6. Seek Professional Help for Major Repairs

While minor repairs like patching up small holes or cleaning up debris can often be handled on your own, larger issues such as roof damage, electrical repairs, or extensive water damage should be left to professionals. Contact licensed contractors who specialize in hurricane recovery to handle these critical repairs safely and effectively. Be cautious of fraudulent contractors who may take advantage of the situation. Always check for proper licensing, get multiple estimates, and avoid paying large sums upfront.

7. Take Care of Your Well-Being

Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane can be physically and emotionally draining. It’s important to take care of your well-being during this time. Make sure you’re eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help, whether that’s from neighbors, family, or local relief organizations. Many communities have resources in place to assist with hurricane recovery, including shelters, food assistance, and volunteer support. Don’t be afraid to ask for the help you need. 

Recovering after a hurricane in Florida requires patience, planning, and attention to detail. By focusing on safety, documenting damage, and working with your insurance provider, you can begin the process of getting your home and life back on track. While the road to recovery may seem long, taking things step by step and seeking professional help when needed can make all the difference. Remember, Florida is resilient, and with the right approach, you’ll get through the aftermath stronger than ever.

To see how we can help during this time, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Southwest Florida or call (941) 759-5937.