06/25/2026
ALERT:🌀
SWFL Hurricane Prep Tip: Protect your home AND protect your insurance claim before the storm ever hits. 🌀🏡
If you live in Southwest Florida, one of the smartest things you can do before hurricane season ramps up is prepare now — not just with supplies, but with documentation and insurance details that can make a huge difference later.
Here’s your hurricane prep checklist for your home and your claim file:
✔️ Do a full video walkthrough of your home and save it to iCloud or another cloud storage account.
Open drawers, closets, cabinets, the garage, and record valuables, contents, and serial numbers.
✔️ Locate your insurance declaration pages now so you know exactly what coverage you have.
Also confirm your insurance agent’s emergency phone number. If you own a business or commercial property, review those policies separately and make sure you understand any waiting periods.
✔️ Photograph the exterior of your property before a storm:
Roof
Screens / pool cage
AC units
Dock / boat lift
Fence
Anything wind could damage
✔️ Review possible coverage gaps now and call your insurance agent before a storm is on the radar. Ask specifically about:
Hurricane deductible (many are 2–5%, not a flat deductible)
Ordinance & Law coverage
Flood coverage
Additional Living Expenses
✔️ During the storm or immediately after, screenshot weather alerts with time stamps and note when the power goes out or any unusual events happen.
🚨 MOST IMPORTANT AFTER THE STORM:
Document everything BEFORE you clean up.
Take photos and video of all damage before moving anything, throwing anything away, or starting cleanup. If possible, do this within the first 48 hours.
✔️ Only make temporary repairs to prevent further damage
✔️ Save every receipt — tarps, supplies, hotel stays, cleanup, repairs, food, generators, everything
✔️ Keep records of all replaced items for insurance and FEMA documentation
⚠️ One more important reminder: Do NOT sign an Assignment of Benefits. Direction of payment may be an option if needed.
The more organized you are before and after a storm, the smoother the claims process can be.
Save this post now so you have it when you need it — and send it to a friend or neighbor in SWFL. 💙