Florida's Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, according to the National Hurricane Center.

For homeowners in Sarasota and surrounding Gulf Coast communities, preparation should begin before a storm appears in the forecast.

Three areas deserve particular attention: your roof, windows and insurance coverage.

What Should Be on Your Hurricane Roof Checklist?

Your roof is one of the home's primary defenses against wind and rain. Problems that seem minor during normal weather can become much more serious during a storm.

Before hurricane season:

• Look for missing, loose, cracked or damaged roofing materials
• Check ceilings and attic areas for evidence of leaks
• Inspect gutters and drainage areas for debris
• Trim potentially hazardous branches near the roof
• Review the age and condition of the roof
• Keep invoices, permits and documentation for previous roof work
• Have concerns evaluated by a qualified roofing professional

Avoid waiting until a storm is approaching to schedule repairs. Contractors and supplies can become harder to secure when severe weather threatens.

How Should You Prepare Windows and Doors?

Windows, doors and other openings deserve a separate inspection.

If your home has shutters or another protection system, make sure you know how it works and that all necessary hardware is available.

Your checklist should include:

• Inspect windows and exterior doors
• Test shutters before they are needed
• Locate shutter panels and hardware
• Check garage doors for visible problems
• Confirm how each opening will be protected
• Repair damaged screens, frames or hardware as appropriate
• Keep installation instructions accessible

Do not assume every window marketed as "impact" or "hurricane" rated provides the same protection. If you are uncertain about your home's products, check the documentation or consult a qualified professional.

What Should You Review on Your Homeowners Insurance?

Start with your declarations page and understand what coverage and deductibles actually apply.

The Florida Department of Financial Services explains that Florida homeowners may have a separate hurricane deductible when windstorm damage results from a hurricane.

Before storm season:

• Review your dwelling and personal-property coverage
• Know your hurricane deductible in dollars
• Ask what wind-related damage your policy covers
• Review exclusions and coverage limits
• Confirm your insurer's claims contact information
• Update your home inventory
• Photograph important rooms and valuable belongings
• Store policy documents where they can be accessed after a storm

Insurance policies vary. Contact your licensed insurance professional with questions about your specific coverage rather than assuming a particular type of damage will be covered.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Flooding?

Do not assume standard homeowners insurance provides flood coverage.

Florida's Department of Financial Services specifically notes that hurricane wind coverage does not include flooding. Homeowners concerned about flood exposure should discuss separate flood coverage with an insurance professional and review information from the National Flood Insurance Program.

This can be especially important for coastal and waterfront homeowners in communities such as Siesta Key, Longboat Key and Lido Key.

What Else Should You Do Before a Hurricane?

The physical house is only part of hurricane preparation.

Keep a simple homeowner checklist:

• Photograph the home's interior and exterior
• Save important documents digitally when practical
• Know how to shut off utilities if instructed
• Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects
• Maintain trees and landscaping
• Keep emergency supplies available
• Follow official evacuation instructions
• Know your evacuation plan before a storm develops

The Florida Division of Emergency Management provides statewide resources for developing a household disaster plan.

Prepare Before a Storm Is on the Map

The best time to check your roof, windows and insurance documents is when the weather is quiet.

A few hours of preparation can help you identify maintenance concerns, understand your insurance coverage and know what needs to happen if a storm threatens Florida's Gulf Coast.

For homeowners buying, selling or maintaining property in the Sarasota area, Hunt Brothers Realty can help with local real estate questions and connect you with the information you need to make informed property decisions.

Hunt Brothers Realty
46 N Washington Blvd, Ste #3
Sarasota, Florida 34236
Phone: (941) 388-7017
Email: info@huntbrothersrealty.com