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In Florida, hurricane insurance provides essential coverage in case of damage from severe wind storms which may lead to financial devastation.  According to tropical weather studies at Colorado State University, the average annual number of storms is 12-15 “named” storms, and 11-13 hurricanes - 3 to 4 of which would be considered severe. In 2011, the number of hurricanes was above the average and the same is predicted for 2012 as a result of weather patterns in the Pacific Ocean.

It’s important for Florida residents to be prepared in advance of the hurricane season. This involves cleaning up your property to prevent flying debris, and preparing a disaster response plan. Strong winds can also rip away a roof covering, and to help prevent rain from coming into the home, the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety (IBHS) recommends sealing the roof deck with self-adhesive membrane tape or a full membrane cover. Tests by the IBHS show that this action alone may help to substantially reduce rain damage. 

The cost of sealing a roof deck is usually around a few hundred dollars but it may well help save you thousands. However it is important to note here that flooding that occurs as a result of a hurricane may not be covered in your homeowners’ policy but under flood insurance which is a separate policy altogether.

By being well-prepared and creating a more hurricane-resistant home, you may end up saving on Florida hurricane insurance premiums and deductibles, as well as avoiding the inconvenience of major home repairs. 

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