Home Insurance
Hurricane Prep and Insurance: Florida & Coastal Homeowner Checklist
Wind deductibles, mitigation credits, and flood gaps — prepare your coastal home policy before storm season.
8 min · Published April 1, 2026 · Updated June 1, 2026
Before storm season
Review declarations pages for wind and hurricane deductibles. Document belongings with photos and receipts. Trim trees, install shutters or impact glass where possible, and confirm flood coverage — wind policies do not cover storm surge.
Wind mitigation inspections
Florida and other coastal states may offer premium credits for roof shape, strapping, and opening protection. A wind mitigation form completed by a licensed inspector can reduce premiums for years.
- Roof covering and deck attachment
- Roof-to-wall connection
- Opening protection (shutters, impact glass)
- Secondary water resistance
After a storm
Document damage immediately, mitigate further loss with tarps and dry-out, and file claims promptly. Keep in mind that assignment of benefits scams target stressed homeowners — work directly with your carrier and licensed adjusters.