Living in Southwest Florida means hurricane season is a reality we all face. As a contractor who’s helped countless homeowners through post-storm recovery, we’ve learned that in some cases, even with all the preparations and proper precautions in place, there are some things you simply can not control. These decisions you make before a storm hits can save you months of headaches, and give you an overall peace of mind.
The Critical Decision: Stay or Go?
Make this decision now, not when a storm is bearing down on us. During peak hurricane season, you have three main options:
- Stay locally in a safer area
- Shelter in place at your own home
- Leave the state entirely
Each choice requires different preparations, but the key is deciding your plan well before you’re under pressure.
Protecting Your Valuables: Water is Your Enemy
Even if your home appears secure, you never know how much water will find its way inside. Here’s what you need to do:
Get plastic totes now. Store your most precious items – important documents, family photos, electronics, jewelry – in waterproof containers and place them as high as possible. Water damage often extends far beyond what you’d expect, so think vertically when protecting your belongings.
A few options:
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Your Contractor Connection: Plan Ahead
Here’s something most homeowners don’t consider: reach out to your trusted contractors before the storm hits. Once bridges close, only residents and established contractors with proper credentials can get back to barrier islands and affected areas. Out-of-town contractors will face significant delays getting access.
Your general contractor becomes your best friend if you evacuate. Having an established relationship means:
- Someone can check on your property immediately after the storm
- Priority service when contractors are overwhelmed with calls
- Faster response for emergency securing and repairs
The Reality of Post-Storm Life
Don’t rush back. I know it’s hard, but services and general supplies will be severely limited immediately after a major storm. The infrastructure needs time to recover, and your safety depends on waiting for the all-clear.
If water got in, assume you have mold. This isn’t meant to scare you – it’s reality. The sooner you address water intrusion with professional help, the better your outcome will be.
The Island Reality
For our Sanibel and Captiva residents: understand that barrier islands will likely be under a state of emergency, with restricted access that could last days or weeks. This makes pre-storm contractor arrangements even more critical.
Peace of Mind is Priceless
If you’re debating whether to evacuate, err on the side of caution. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you and your family are safe is worth far more than any inconvenience. And if the storm changes course? Consider it a free vacation.
Before you leave:
- Arrange for a trusted contractor to monitor your property
- Document your home’s condition with photos
- Secure outdoor furniture and potential projectiles
- Know your insurance agent’s emergency contact information
Our Commitment to You
At Sunset Builders & Maintenance, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with storm season. We’ll get to your property as quickly as safely possible after any storm event, and we’ll do our best to get you secured and on the path to recovery.
The key to weathering any storm – literally and figuratively – is preparation. Make your plans now, establish your contractor relationships, and protect what matters most.
For emergency storm damage assessment and repairs, contact Sunset Builders & Maintenance at (239) 236-9646. Stay safe, Southwest Florida.
