Florida Hurricane Prep: The Homeowner’s Checklist You Actually Need

If you live in Florida, you already know hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. What you might not realize is how often people think they’re ready—until a storm proves otherwise.

Let’s not let that be you.

This isn’t a “just in case” kind of checklist; it’s a guide to important resources pulled straight from the recommendations of three major Florida insurance companies . It’s a no-fluff guide pulled straight from the recommendations of three major Florida insurance companies. Here’s what you actually need on hand before the winds pick up.

The Only Hurricane Prep Checklist You Need (With Tips That Actually Matter)

Be ready to go 7 days without power, water, gas, internet, or cell service in case of severe weather .

Essentials

• 1 gallon of water per person, per day – Stock up for drinking, cleaning, and cooking.
• Canned food, snacks, and protein bars – No fridge or stove needed.
• Manual can opener – Electric ones are useless without power.
• Charcoal or propane – Fuel up your grill to cook if the power’s out.
• Disposable plates and utensils – Skip the dishes when water is scarce.

Medical

• Prescription meds (7-day supply) – Pharmacies may be closed for days.
• First-aid kit – Minor injuries are common post-storm.
• Bug spray and sunscreen – Florida bugs and sun don’t take breaks.
• Glasses and hearing aid batteries – Don’t get stuck without backups.

Hygiene

• Toothbrush and toothpaste – Fresh breath still matters.
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer – Critical when plumbing or water isn’t working.
• Feminine products and baby wipes – Comfort matters in a crisis.

Documents

• ID, insurance, and bank info – Keep in a waterproof pouch.
• Home inventory list – Speeds up your insurance claim.
• Passports, birth certificates, etc. – Replaceable, but a huge pain.

Power & Communication

• Fully charged phones and power banks – Communication is key.
• Battery-powered radio – Your backup for weather updates.
• Flashlights or headlamps – One per person is best.
• Extra batteries (all sizes) – You’ll run out faster than you think.

Cash

• Small bills – ATMs and card readers might be down.

Go-Bag

• Pre-packed with essentials – Have it ready if evacuation is needed.
• Include water, snacks, meds, hygiene gear, ID, flashlight, and charger.

Pets

• Food, water, leash, meds, carrier – Treat them like any family member.
• Pee pads or litter box – Many shelters won’t have supplies.

Home Prep

• Storm shutters or panels – Plywood only if you must.
• Brace garage doors – A weak spot during high winds.
• Trim trees and clear gutters – Reduces damage and flooding.
• Bring in outdoor items – Anything loose can become a missile.
• Don’t tape your windows – It doesn’t help and can be dangerous.

Pool Tip

• Don’t drain it – Water prevents structural damage; just lower a bit.

What About Your Insurance?

This part matters more than people think. Once a hurricane watch is issued, you can’t make any changes to your policy. No upgrades. No new coverage. Nothing.

So check now:

• Are your hurricane and AOP deductibles something you can realistically afford?
• Do you have enough loss-of-use coverage to live elsewhere if your home’s unlivable?
• Have you upgraded your roof or added features like a screen enclosure or solar panels? Make sure they’re listed.
• And remember: flood damage isn’t covered by standard home insurance. You need a separate flood policy—and it comes with a 30-day wait.

If you’re not sure what your policy includes, Worth Insurance can walk you through it. No pressure, no guesswork, just clarity.

The Bottom Line

Hurricanes aren’t rare. They’re expected. And every year, someone who thought they were ready finds out they weren’t.

But getting prepared doesn’t have to be complicated.

Use this checklist to ensure you have all your important documents before the next storm is named . Look over your insurance before the next storm is named. If you're not sure what to check or what coverage you actually have, that's what we're here for.

Worth Insurance can help you sort it out—no jargon, no pressure—providing guidance on your safety preparation . Just answers.