Prepare for the 2023 Hurricane Season

As Hurricane Idalia approaches, it’s important to be prepared.

Florida is bracing itself as Hurricane Idalia is set to make landfall within the next 24 hours. Preparations are underway to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the path of the impending storm. Here's our comprehensive list on what homeowners should do to be prepared for the impact.

What to do to prepare:

• Take Photographs of Everything: Take pictures of your home (inside and out) and take pictures of all your contents before any damage occurs. Photographs are the best evidence to use in a claim. They help show the insurance company the condition of your property before the hurricane. The more photographs the better.
• Locate Your Insurance Policy: Make sure you have access to your policy to review in case you have damages and you need to report a claim.
• Check Your Roof: If you have any areas of concern, take measures to protect your home. Knowing any areas of concern with your roof will assist you with your post storm damage inspection to know what needs to be addressed as soon as possible after the storm passes.
• Check Doors and Windows: Windows and doors can also allow leaks and water damage during a hurricane. Check windows and doors to see if you have any areas that need protecting during the storm.
• Check for Cracking on the Exterior of Your Home: Cracks in the exterior of your home, especially with stucco, can cause water to enter your home. If you find any cracks, seal them to prevent water intrusion.
• Have Tarp(s) on Hand: If you’re concerned about roof damage from a hurricane, having tarp(s) before the storm can help you take action quicker to prevent more damages from occurring to your home.
• Know Your Flood Zone: The closer you are to a flood zone, the more likely your home will be impacted by a hurricane. Knowing your flood zone can help you determine whether you need to evacuate and whether you need sandbags to keep water out.

For yourself and your family, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Know Your Evacuation Routes and Shelters: Make sure you know where to go and where your shelter is located if you need to evacuate.
• Pack a Bag: Have a bag with essentials ready to go in case you need to evacuate quickly. This should include clothes, snacks, water, bathroom essentials, and a map.
• Buy Non-Perishable Goods: Stock up on gallons of water and water bottles, as water goes fast when a hurricane hits.
• Keep a Current Copy of Your Insurance Policy: Print out a complete copy of your insurance policy, as you may not have access to it if you lose power.
• Have Your Insurance Company’s Contact Information: Save the phone number and email address of your insurance company in case you need to make a claim.
• Keep Your Insurance Agent’s Information: Have your agent’s information on hand in case you need to call in a claim after the hurricane.
• Contact Murray Law Group: Keep our firm’s number saved in case you need assistance with any hurricane-related questions or insurance claims. We can help move you through the process as quickly and efficiently as possible, especially if there are thousands of homeowners making claims after a hurricane strikes.

Being prepared can make all the difference.

While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to prepare yourself, your families, and your home for the storm. Remember, the safety of you and your loved ones is the most important thing, and being prepared can make all the difference.