Seasonal Guide

Hurricane Preparedness: Protecting Your Fort Lauderdale Home

Hurricane season runs June through November in South Florida, and the homes that come through storms with the least water damage are almost always the ones that prepared before the forecast, not after. Here’s what actually makes a difference for Fort Lauderdale properties.

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Before June 1st

Pre-Season Prep That Actually Reduces Water Damage Risk

1 Confirm whether you have separate flood insurance — a standard homeowners policy generally doesn’t cover storm surge or rising floodwater, and NFIP flood policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before taking effect.

2 Clear gutters and downspouts — clogged drainage is one of the most common preventable causes of interior water intrusion during heavy rain.

3 Have your roof inspected if it’s been more than a couple of years — wind-driven rain finds existing weak points fastest.

4 Photograph your property’s condition as a baseline for any future insurance claim.

5 Know where your main water shut-off valve is, separate from storm prep — plumbing failures don’t wait for hurricane season.

6 Save an emergency restoration number where you’ll actually find it during a storm, not just in a phone you might lose power to charge.

During & After the Storm

What to Do Once a Storm Has Passed

Check ground-floor slab areas and garages first — they’re typically the first place surge or heavy rain intrusion shows up in Fort Lauderdale homes. Look for water stains, damp carpet edges, or a musty smell even if nothing looks obviously flooded. If you find water intrusion, response time in the first 24 to 48 hours is what usually decides whether it stays a drying job or becomes a mold remediation job, especially given South Florida’s humidity.

Inspect ground-floor and garage areas first, even without visible flooding

Photograph any damage found before starting cleanup

Determine whether the damage is wind-driven rain (often covered) or surge/flood (often not, without NFIP)

Call for extraction and drying immediately if you find standing water or saturated materials

FAQ

Hurricane Preparedness Questions We Hear Most

When does hurricane season start in Florida?

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs June 1 through November 30, though storm activity typically peaks in late August through October.

Do I need flood insurance if I’m not directly on the water?

Possibly. Storm surge and heavy rainfall can flood inland properties in Fort Lauderdale given the city’s low elevation and slow drainage, not just waterfront homes. It’s worth checking your property’s flood zone designation rather than assuming distance from the coast rules it out.

Can you help before a storm, or only after damage happens?

Our core service is response after water damage occurs, but we’re happy to answer questions about your property’s risk factors and what your insurance is likely to cover if you call ahead of a storm.

Is it too late to get flood insurance right before a storm?

Often, yes — NFIP flood policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect, so it needs to be in place well before a storm is forecast, not purchased in response to one.

Storm Damage Already Happened?

We respond 24/7 across Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, during and after any storm.

Call (214) 286-6943

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