Is Your Home Hurricane Ready? A Florida Keys Checklist

Living in the Florida Keys means enjoying coastal beauty, sunshine, and a laid-back island lifestyle — but it also means being prepared for hurricane season. With storm activity peaking from August through October, hurricane readiness isn’t optional — it’s essential for protecting your home, your investment, and your loved ones.

At ShineGroup, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in the Keys navigate the storm season confidently. Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned property owner, here’s your Florida Keys Hurricane Prep Checklist to keep your property safe and secure.

✅ 1. Review Your Insurance Coverage

• Confirm your homeowner’s insurance is up to date

• Add or review flood insurance (standard policies don’t cover flood damage!)

• Check your hurricane deductible — know what you’ll be expected to pay if a claim arises

• Take updated photos and videos of your property for documentation

📋 Pro Tip: Ask your agent about coverage for additional living expenses (ALE) in case you need to evacuate.

✅ 2. Install or Inspect Storm Protection

• Install hurricane shutters or impact-rated windows and doors

• Reinforce your garage door — it's a common weak point

• Clear gutters and drains to prevent water backups

• Secure rooftop items like solar panels, antennas, or HVAC units

🔧 Bonus: These improvements may qualify you for insurance discounts and increase your home's resale value.

✅ 3. Create a Hurricane Supply Kit

Stock your home with essentials to survive power outages or evacuation orders:

• Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)

• Non-perishable food (3–7 days' worth)

• First-aid supplies, medications, flashlights, batteries

• Portable phone chargers and a NOAA weather radio

• Pet food, baby items, and hygiene products

🌀 Keep your kit stored in a waterproof container and review it before each season starts.

✅ 4. Secure Outdoor Spaces

• Anchor or store patio furniture, potted plants, grills, and decor

• Trim trees and remove dead branches

• Check fencing and gates for secure posts

• Shut off irrigation systems to avoid flood damage

🏖️ Remember: unsecured outdoor items become dangerous projectiles during high winds.

✅ 5. Know Your Evacuation Zone

• Look up your Monroe County evacuation zone and know your route

• Prepare an emergency “go-bag” for quick departures

• Plan ahead for where you'll go — friends, hotels, shelters, or out-of-town family

• Don’t forget to prep documents: IDs, insurance, deeds, and cash

🚗 Fill your gas tank early — fuel shortages are common before storms.

✅ 6. Protect Important Documents & Assets

• Store documents in a waterproof, fireproof container

• Include home title, insurance papers, passports, and medical records

• Back up important files to the cloud or external hard drive

💡 ShineGroup Tip: Create a digital inventory of your property with serial numbers, purchase dates, and photos.

✅ 7. Prepare for Extended Power Outages

• Install or service your backup generator

• Test flashlights and battery-powered fans

• Freeze gallon jugs of water to keep your fridge cool longer

• Charge all devices and consider solar-powered options

⚡ Keep your fridge and freezer closed as much as possible to preserve food.

🏡 ShineGroup Is Here to Help

Hurricane season doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation — and local experts by your side — you can protect your property and peace of mind.

Looking to hurricane-proof your home before the next storm? We’ll connect you with trusted contractors, roofers, and insurance providers throughout the Florida Keys.

📞 Contact ShineGroup today for your personalized hurricane readiness consultation.