Helping Florida Community Associations Prepare for Hurricane Season

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1st through November 30th, and for Florida community associations, early preparation is critical. Waiting until a storm is imminent can leave associations vulnerable to greater risks — including serious property damage, financial loss and prolonged recovery. That’s why our firm is proud to introduce the “Act Before Impact” series: a full-season resource designed to help condominium and homeowner associations prepare before storms strike and recover efficiently afterward.

For more than four decades, our firm has represented community associations across Florida in navigating insurance claims and restoring their communities after catastrophic storms. This year, we are expanding our support by offering webinars, seminars, helpful checklists and articles that boards of directors and property managers can use to strengthen their preparedness efforts. Our goal is to ensure your community is not only ready — but resilient.

Hurricane Preparedness: Early Action Matters

Taking action now — before the skies darken — allows associations to assess vulnerabilities, review insurance coverage, establish emergency procedures, and coordinate with vendors and contractors. Early preparation can reduce property damage, minimize financial exposure, protect residents and ensure a smoother post-storm recovery. Associations that plan ahead are in the strongest position to handle the unexpected.

What Should a Disaster Preparedness Plan Include?

A comprehensive disaster plan should be tailored to your community’s specific needs but should generally include:

• A detailed evacuation and sheltering plan
• Identification of essential personnel and responsibilities
• Vendor and contractor agreements for emergency services
• Property protection measures (i.e., securing common areas, shutters, generators)
• Communication protocols for keeping residents informed
• Insurance policy reviews and claim preparation processes
• Recovery and debris removal plans post-storm

These components should be reviewed, updated and communicated to all residents well before a storm is on the radar.

Pre-Hurricane Season Checklist for Associations

Leading up to the start of hurricane season, associations should focus on the following:

• Reviewing and updating disaster preparedness and evacuation plans
• Testing emergency systems (generators, alarms, communication tools)
• Inspecting roofs, drainage systems and windows for vulnerabilities
• Confirming vendor contracts for post-storm services (tree removal, debris clearing, mitigation and repairs)
• Gathering and securing important documents (insurance policies, bylaws, contracts)
• Scheduling a board meeting or community webinar to review preparedness protocols
• Communicating clear, step-by-step plans to residents and staff
• Conducting insurance policy reviews to ensure adequate coverage for potential losses
• Identifying and updating emergency contacts for key personnel and vendors
• Updating roster of residents/owners
• Taking date-stamped pictures and videos of property and all common areas
• Stockpiling basic emergency supplies for common areas

Through the “Act Before Impact” series, we will continue to provide updated resources, best practices and expert guidance throughout the hurricane season. Should a storm make landfall, our experienced legal team is ready to assist associations in managing insurance claims and recovering as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

Follow along with our “Act Before Impact” updates to ensure your association is ready — no matter what the season brings.