Hurricane Prep Tips for Gulf Coast Homes: True North Restoration Guide
Hurricane season can be stressful, but being prepared can make all the difference for you, your family, and your property.
At
True North Restoration, we know how important it is to protect your home, document your belongings for insurance purposes, and stay safe when a storm is on the way. In this guide, we’ll share practical steps you can take before a hurricane hits, including key insurance tips, so you can feel confident and ready.
1. Review Your Insurance Policies Before a Storm
Before a hurricane is even named, it’s critical to check your homeowners and flood insurance policies. Once a storm is named, most insurers will not allow you to purchase new coverage or increase your limits.
Make sure your policy covers:
- Flood damage (often separate from standard homeowners insurance)
- Wind damage
- Personal property replacement
Double-check your deductibles and coverage limits. If you’re unsure, call your insurance agent now—waiting until a storm is approaching could leave you underinsured.
2. Document Your Home and Belongings
Insurance claims can become complicated after a hurricane. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to take detailed photos or videos of your property and belongings before a storm.
This includes:
- Inside your home: Open dressers, closets, cabinets, and storage areas. Photograph all items to prove they were present before the storm.
- Outside your home: Document landscaping, fencing, and any exterior structures.
- Vehicles: Take photos of all cars, trucks, or boats that might remain on your property if you evacuate.
Clear, timestamped photos help avoid disputes with insurance companies and speed up the claims process.
3. Secure Your Home
Before a hurricane hits, taking steps to protect your home can greatly reduce damage and keep your family safe.
Be sure to:
- Board up windows and doors or install storm shutters.
- Move outdoor furniture, decorations, and potted plants indoors to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
- Use sandbags or other flood barriers around doors and low-lying areas to redirect water.
- Trim trees and branches that could fall on your home or vehicles.
Even simple precautions like these can save thousands in repair costs and make post-storm recovery much smoother.
4. Prepare an Emergency Plan
Safety should always come first. Make sure your family knows what to do if evacuation becomes necessary.
Create an emergency plan by:
- Identifying nearby shelters and evacuation routes.
- Packing an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and important documents.
- Keeping your phone charged and consider a backup battery.
- Planning where your pets will stay if you need to evacuate.
Having a plan reduces stress and helps you act quickly if conditions worsen.
5. Backup Important Documents
Along with photos of your property, keep digital and physical copies of key documents in a waterproof container or safe.
Make sure to include:
- Insurance policies and contact information
- Mortgage or lease agreements
- Identification (driver’s license, passport)
- Medical records
This ensures you can access essential information if your home is damaged.
6. Prepare for Post-Storm Restoration
Even with careful preparation, hurricanes can cause water, wind, or fire damage.
True North Restoration is here to help with:
No matter the damage,
True North Restoration is ready to restore your home quickly and help you get back to normal.
Why Destin Homeowners Trust True North Restoration
When hurricane season hits the Gulf Coast, homeowners want a restoration team they can rely on—and that’s where True North Restoration comes in.
Here’s why Destin families choose us:
- Fast Response: On-site within 45 minutes to start restoration and insurance support.
- Local Expertise: Serving Destin and surrounding Gulf Coast communities.
- Full-Service Restoration: Water, fire, and mold damage handled from start to finish.
- Insurance Support: Thorough documentation to simplify your claims.
- Trusted Locally: Locally owned, focused on restoring homes safely and efficiently.
With True North Restoration, you’re partnering with
a team dedicated to protecting your home and giving you peace of mind during storm season.
Stay Safe and Protect Your Property
Hurricane preparation isn’t just about survival—it’s about protecting your home and ensuring a smooth insurance claim if damage occurs. By following these tips, you can reduce risk and have peace of mind knowing you’re ready.
If your home does sustain damage, True North Restoration is your trusted partner for quick, thorough restoration. We’re available 24/7, ready to help the Gulf Coast stay safe and prepared!
