What Buyers Should Know About Storm Protection When Shopping in the Keys

Buying a home in the Florida Keys is a dream come true — but that dream comes with a unique responsibility: storm protection. As beautiful as island living is, homes in the Keys must be ready to face hurricanes, tropical storms, and seasonal flooding.

Knowing what to look for can save you thousands on insurance, protect your property, and give you priceless peace of mind (so can the right real estate agent 😉). In this guide, we're sharing the storm-readiness features buyers should prioritize, plus must-ask questions during home showings.

🪟 1. Look for Impact-Rated Windows & Doors

Why it matters:

Impact-rated windows and doors are built to withstand flying debris and high winds. They not only reduce your risk of storm damage but also qualify you for insurance discounts under Florida’s Wind Mitigation Program.

What to check:

• Are all windows and doors impact-rated, or are there manual storm shutters instead?

• Check for a visible manufacturer label and verify compliance with the Florida Building Code

• Ask for documentation or a recent wind mitigation report

🔍 Bonus: Impact glass also offers UV protection and energy efficiency — perfect for Florida’s sunny climate.

🏠 2. Know the Home’s Elevation and Flood Zone

Why it matters:

The lower the elevation, the higher the flood risk — and the higher the insurance premiums. Homes in zones AE or VE may require flood insurance, which can significantly affect monthly costs.

What to ask:

• What flood zone is the property in?

• Does the seller have an elevation certificate?

• Has the home ever flooded, and are there any mitigation systems (e.g., sump pumps, raised HVAC systems)?

🏡 Pro Tip: Elevated stilt homes tend to perform better during storm surge and may offer lower flood insurance costs.

🛠️ 3. Ask About Roof Age and Rating

Why it matters:

In a hurricane, the roof is your first line of defense. A newer, hurricane-rated roof with tie-down straps or clips adds structural integrity and can slash insurance premiums.

What to ask:

• When was the roof last replaced?

• Does it meet Miami-Dade hurricane standards or Florida Building Code?

• Is there a current wind mitigation report?

📋 Note: Roofs older than 20 years may need updating for insurance eligibility.

🔌 4. Check Backup Systems & Storm Readiness Features

What to look for:

• Permanent or portable generators

• Hurricane-rated garage doors

• Reinforced fencing or secured outdoor features

• Drainage systems or raised landscaping to divert water

🔦 Ask:

• How long can the home function off-grid in a power outage?

• Where is the generator located and is it serviced regularly?

💵 5. Understand Insurance Discounts & Potential Savings

Homes with proper storm protection may qualify for substantial insurance discounts, particularly on windstorm and flood policies.

Ask the seller or agent:

• Is there a current wind mitigation or four-point inspection available?

• What insurance discounts are currently applied to the policy?

💡 ShineGroup Insight: Some buyers inherit discounts from the previous owner’s policy — ask your agent to confirm what carries over.

📋 Questions to Ask During Home Showings

Use this checklist to guide your showing and protect your investment:

✅ Are windows and doors impact-rated or are shutters installed?

✅ What flood zone is the property in?

✅ Is there an elevation certificate?

✅ When was the roof installed and what is its wind rating?

✅ Are there any insurance discounts currently applied?

✅ Has the home experienced previous storm or flood damage?

✅ Are HVAC and electrical systems elevated or storm-secured?

✅ Is there a backup generator or surge protection in place?

Let ShineGroup Help You Buy Smart — and Safe

At ShineGroup, we specialize in helping buyers find homes that are not only beautiful and functional — but resilient. Our team will guide you through flood zones, inspections, and insurance requirements so you can buy with clarity and confidence.