South Florida Enters Hurricane Season

June marks the beginning of hurricane season in South Florida. For homeowners and business owners in coastal regions like Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach, this isn’t just a seasonal note—it’s a call to take action. The Atlantic hurricane season, running from June 1 to November 30, brings with it elevated risk for wind, water, and flood damage. Now is the time to assess whether your current insurance coverage can truly protect your property and finances.

With the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasting an above-average hurricane season—including multiple major storms—insurance readiness isn’t optional. In an area where windstorm damage and flood events are a yearly threat, having the right policies in place can make all the difference.

What to Evaluate in Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

Too often, South Florida homeowners assume they’re covered—until a storm proves otherwise. Use this month to audit your policy for the following key elements:

Windstorm Insurance

Many standard homeowners policies exclude windstorm coverage, especially in high-risk zip codes along the coast. If your property insurance doesn’t explicitly list wind damage as covered, you may need to secure a separate windstorm policy, either through a private carrier or Citizens Property Insurance Corporation.

Hurricane Deductibles

Florida homeowners are subject to hurricane-specific deductibles, which are typically calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value—not a flat dollar amount. If your policy lists a 5% hurricane deductible on a $500,000 home, that’s $25,000 you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket before coverage begins. Confirm your deductible now, not after a storm.

Flood Insurance is Not Included

This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of Florida homeowners insurance. Flood damage is not covered under standard home policies. You’ll need separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private flood insurer. With rising sea levels and South Florida’s saturated ground conditions, this coverage is essential—whether or not you’re in a designated flood zone.

Loss of Use Coverage

If a hurricane forces you to evacuate or your home becomes uninhabitable, Loss of Use (Additional Living Expenses) coverage pays for temporary lodging, meals, and more. Ensure this line item is included and that the coverage limits are sufficient.

How to Fortify Your Home and Potentially Lower Your Premium

Insurers reward preparation. Certain upgrades and home improvements can reduce your hurricane risk and lower your premiums. Consider:

• Installing hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows
• Upgrading your roof with hurricane straps or secondary water resistance
• Reinforcing garage doors and exterior entry points
• Clearing trees and limbs that could become projectiles in high winds

Check with your insurance provider about available wind mitigation credits—these upgrades can lead to significant savings on your annual premium.

Auto Insurance: Don’t Overlook Your Vehicle This Storm Season

Comprehensive auto insurance is critical during hurricane season. Unlike liability-only coverage, comprehensive covers weather-related damage, including:

• Flooding
• Wind-blown debris
• Tree impact
• Hail
• Theft or vandalism post-storm

Vehicles are often damaged during hurricanes, and repairs or replacements without the proper coverage can quickly become costly.

Business Owners: Risk Management Starts with Insurance

Commercial properties are just as vulnerable to hurricane damage as homes—if not more. South Florida business owners should review the following coverage areas immediately:

• Commercial Property Insurance: Does your policy include wind and flood damage?
• Business Interruption Insurance: Can you recover lost income if your operations are forced to shut down?
• Data Recovery & Cyber Coverage: Is your business prepared for power loss and potential data compromise?
• Commercial Auto Insurance: Are your work vehicles protected under comprehensive coverage?

Business continuity depends on proactive planning—don’t wait until storm warnings are issued.

Real Example: The Cost of Being Underinsured

One homeowner in Fort Lauderdale experienced substantial flooding during a summer thunderstorm—not a hurricane, just heavy seasonal rain. With no flood insurance in place, they were responsible for over $45,000 in repairs and personal property loss. Their homeowners policy didn’t apply. This scenario isn’t rare—it’s the reality for many who skip flood insurance assuming it’s unnecessary.

Checklist: Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent Today

• Is windstorm damage included in my homeowners policy?
• What is my hurricane deductible, and can I afford it?
• Do I have a separate flood insurance policy?
• Are my current limits high enough to rebuild or replace?
• Am I eligible for wind mitigation discounts?
• Does my auto insurance include comprehensive coverage?

Schedule a Hurricane Insurance Review Today

South Florida residents don’t need reminders about what a Category 3—or stronger—storm can do. But reminders alone don’t prepare your finances, your family, or your property.

Schedule a coverage review with our local insurance experts today. We’ll evaluate your current policies, recommend any critical updates, and make sure your insurance actually works when you need it most.

 Call now or request a quote online.
Be proactive. Be protected. Hurricane season won’t wait.