Hurricane Season is Coming

If you own a home in Valrico, hurricane prep is not optional. Season runs June 1 through November 30, and the time to prepare is before the first named storm, not after. Here is a practical checklist broken into what to do now, what to do when a storm is approaching, and what to handle after it passes.

Before Storm Season (Do This Now)

• Inspect your roof. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracked tiles, or worn flashing. A small leak becomes a big problem under sustained wind and rain.
• Clean gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters cause water to back up under your roof edge. Clear them out completely.
• Trim trees and remove dead branches. Anything overhanging your roof or near power lines is a hazard. Get it trimmed before June.
• Check your garage door. Garage doors are one of the weakest points in a Florida home during high winds. Consider bracing kits if yours is older.
• Test your sump pump if you have one. Make sure it runs and the discharge line is clear.
• Document your home. Walk through and video every room, your roof, your exterior. Store it in the cloud. This is your insurance claim evidence if you ever need it.
• Review your insurance policy. Know your wind and flood deductibles. Flood insurance is separate from homeowners insurance and has a 30-day waiting period.

When a Storm is Approaching (72-24 Hours Out)

• Install shutters or plywood. If you do not have impact windows, have your shutter plan ready before the rush at Home Depot. Corrugated polycarbonate hurricane panels are reusable season after season and lighter than plywood.
• Secure outdoor furniture. Bring in everything: patio furniture, grills, potted plants, kids' toys, pool equipment.
• Fill your vehicles with gas. Do not wait. Stations run out fast.
• Stock water and non-perishables. One gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days.
• Charge everything. Phones, portable batteries, laptops. If you do not have a good portable battery, an Anker power bank can charge a phone 5-6 times — worth every penny when the power is out for days.
• Set your fridge and freezer to the coldest settings. If you lose power, this buys you extra time.

After the Storm

• Do not walk through standing water. Downed power lines are invisible in floodwater.
• Document all damage before touching anything. Photos and video for your insurance claim.
• Tarp any roof damage immediately. Keep a heavy-duty waterproof tarp in your garage before storm season — you do not want to be hunting for one after the storm when every store is sold out. A temporary fix prevents secondary water damage.
• Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas, leave the house and call TECO.
• Start cleanup promptly. Mold can start growing in 24-48 hours in Florida humidity.

When to Call a Professional

Some things are not DIY territory after a storm. If you have roof damage, downed trees on structures, electrical issues, or standing water in your home, call a licensed professional. Trying to save money on these repairs usually costs more in the long run.

Need help with pre-storm prep or post-storm repairs in Valrico? Best Bay Services handles everything from tree trimming coordination to full home maintenance.

Best Bay Services (813) 692-1321 | bestbayservices.com