If you spend part of the year in South Florida, you already know that hurricane season in Florida isn’t something to take lightly. It runs from June through November, but honestly, the weather doesn’t always wait for the calendar to line up. For snowbirds who leave their homes unattended for months at a time, the thought of a storm hitting while you’re thousands of miles away? Stressful doesn’t even begin to cover it.
That’s why getting your home hurricane ready before heading north is one of the best decisions you can make. It’s not just about avoiding damage, it’s about peace of mind. No one wants to be sitting in a cozy home up north while constantly refreshing the Weather Channel, wondering if the patio furniture is still in one piece.
The Florida Hurricane Reality Check
We all hope each year will be a quiet one. But the truth is, Florida has a long history of getting hit hard during hurricane season. Between the strong winds, heavy rain, and unpredictable storm tracks, things can change fast. What starts as a tropical wave off the coast of Africa can turn into a category 4 monster heading for your zip code in just a few days.
If you’re not in town when that happens, who’s securing your home? Who’s making sure the gutters aren’t clogged, the furniture is moved, and the windows are protected? A neighbor might check in if you’re lucky but chances are, they’re busy prepping their own place.
What Can Go Wrong When You’re Not There
Let’s break it down. Here’s what we often see when homes are left unprepared:
- Patio furniture becomes projectiles, breaking windows or damaging siding
- Rain sneaks in through small cracks or unsealed windows, causing mold and water damage
- Gutters overflow, leading to roof issues or flooding around the foundation
- Unchecked humidity invites mildew to take over
- Electrical systems are vulnerable to power surges if not shut down properly
One client told us their grill launched into the neighbor’s fence during a tropical storm and they didn’t even know until they got back months later. That’s not a surprise you want waiting for you after your flight. Our Job Is to Handle This Stuff So You Don’t Have To
At Gardens Home Management Services, we work with snowbirds all the time. We know what needs to get done, and more importantly, we know when and how to do it right. Our hurricane preparation services are built for seasonal homeowners who can’t be here when storms approach.
Here’s a little of what we do:
- Move or secure outdoor furniture so nothing flies away or gets ruined
- Install shutters or storm panels
- Clear debris from gutters and drains
- Check the exterior for weak spots (loose shingles, cracked seals, etc.)
- Take photos and send you a full report so you know exactly what was done
And after a storm? We’ll go back out, inspect the home, and give you an update so you’re not stuck wondering what happened while the news shows endless storm footage.
Insurance Is Great, But Prevention Is Better
Sure, having insurance helps, but it doesn’t make damage disappear. Filing claims is a hassle, premiums go up, and not everything is covered. Taking smart, preventative steps before a storm hits can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
We’ve had homeowners tell us they used to fly down every summer just to prep their homes. Now, they don’t even have to think about it. That’s what we want for every client: the ability to enjoy your time away, knowing your home is being looked after like it’s our own.
Don’t Wait for a Hurricane to Show Up on the Radar
By the time a storm is forming, it’s usually too late to get on a schedule. Stores run out of supplies. Everyone’s scrambling. And if you’re not in town, you’re left hoping for the best. The smartest move? Prep ahead of time. Let us take care of it while you focus on living your life.
Hurricane season in Florida isn’t going anywhere. But with the right team in place, it doesn’t have to keep you up at night.
Call Gardens Home Management Services today to ensure your home is safe while you’re away!