October 1, 2025

Protect Your Home Before A Hurricane Strikes

Hurricanes are a reality of life in South Florida. 

While forecasts can change quickly, peace of mind comes from knowing your property is prepared long before a storm appears on the radar. 

A thoughtful plan ensures your home weathers the season safely, while you and your family can focus on staying secure.

Here are six key areas your team should be addressing long before the next storm approaches.

1. Strengthen Roofs and Windows

Your home’s first line of defense is its structure. 

Your team should ensure the roof, shutters, and impact windows are inspected and reinforced. Loose tiles, worn seals, or aging hardware can compromise your home during high winds. Repairs now are far easier and less costly than emergency fixes after a storm.

2. Secure Outdoor Living Spaces

Anything left outside can become dangerous in high winds. 

Patio furniture, potted plants, umbrellas, and grills can become dangerous projectiles in hurricane-force winds.

Plan ahead: Your vendors should have a clear plan for storing, covering, or securing every item so your outdoor areas and your neighbors remain safe.

3. Ensure Backup Power is Reliable

Power outages are common after hurricanes, but your generator is only useful if it runs when you need it. 

Your service team should test fuel supplies, inspect transfer switches, and confirm critical systems like refrigeration, lighting, and climate control are covered.

4. Keep Insurance and Records Current

Preparation extends beyond the physical home. 

Your advisor should confirm insurance coverage limits and deductibles while ensuring documentation like photos, receipts, and service histories are updated and securely stored in a digital hub where everything is accessible.

This preparation streamlines claims and protects you against disputes if damage occurs.

5. Confirm Vendor Access and Emergency Readiness

When a storm passes, access to your home can be restricted. Your vendors should have clearance and instructions in place so recovery begins without delay. 

A prepared network ensures your property is among the first attended to when it matters most.

6. Protect Specialty Systems and Valuables

Luxury homes often include features like pools, elevators, wine cellars, or climate-controlled storage. 

Your team should ensure protective measures are in place, such as pool equipment shut-off protocols, elevator lock-down systems, or backup climate controls for wine and art storage.

Have contingency plans documented in advance so your team knows exactly how to respond if power is lost or access is delayed. 

Protecting these assets prevents costly losses and maintains your home’s value.

Preparation Without the Stress

No one can control the weather, but preparation can mitigate the impact it makes. 

When every detail is handled in advance, your home is safeguarded, your records are in order, and your support team is ready to act when you need them most.

With John Holland Real Estate’s advisory model, your property is always protected by a documented plan and a team ready to act the moment it’s needed.

For tailored support with hurricane preparation, reach out to your JHRE advisor or contact our Concierge team. We’ll ensure every safeguard is in place before the next storm arrives.