Have you heard that Florida has been hit by 125 hurricanes since 1851?
Living in Bradenton means enjoying sunny days and beautiful beaches, but it also means being prepared for hurricanes. Property owners have to understand hurricane preparedness to protect their properties.
What should people know about real estate investing and hurricanes? Read on for our Bradenton hurricane guide.
Create a Hurricane Preparedness Plan
Before hurricane season begins, develop a comprehensive hurricane preparedness plan for your rental property. This plan should include the following:
- Evacuation routes
- Emergency contact information
- Procedures for securing the property
Stay Informed
Every property manager has to keep an eye on the latest local weather forecasts and hurricane warnings. Sign up for local alerts and monitor the National Hurricane Center for updates on potential storms.
Inspect and Maintain Your Florida Property
Inspect your property for any vulnerabilities that could worsen during a hurricane on a regular basis. This includes checking the following:
- Roof
- Windows
- Doors
- Landscaping
Be sure to get any necessary repairs done as soon as possible. Try to do this during the off-season to avoid competing with other homeowners and landlords.
Secure Outdoor Items
Remove any outdoor furniture, decorations, or equipment that could become projectiles during strong winds. Secure loose items and trim trees and shrubs to reduce potential damage.
Stock Emergency Supplies
You'll need the following supplies:
- Non-perishable food
- Water
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- First aid kits
Make sure your tenants are aware of where these supplies are located in case of an emergency.
Review Insurance Coverage
Review your property insurance policy to understand what is covered in the event of a hurricane. Consider purchasing extra coverage if necessary, such as flood insurance, to protect your investment.
Communicate with Tenants
Keep open lines of communication with your tenants throughout hurricane season. Provide them with the following information:
- Evacuation routes
- Emergency shelters
- Safety procedures
Encourage them to create their own emergency plans and preparations.
Prepare for Evacuation
In the event of a mandatory evacuation order, ensure that your tenants are aware of the evacuation route and have a plan in place for leaving the property safely. Provide them with clear instructions on what to do before they evacuate, such as securing windows and doors.
Secure Important Documents
Keep insurance policies, leases, and contact information in a waterproof and fireproof container. Consider making digital copies and storing them securely online.
After the Storm
Once the hurricane has passed, assess any damage to your property and prioritize repairs. Check for the following:
- Water damage
- Structural issues
- Electrical problems
Communicate with your tenants about the status of the property and any necessary evacuation or safety procedures.
You Need to Be Ready for Hurricanes When Real Estate Investing
Hurricanes are a serious threat in Bradenton, and being prepared is key to keeping your property and tenants safe. By following these hurricane preparedness tips and staying vigilant throughout hurricane season, real estate investing can be an amazing experience.
Keeping your Bradenton investments in great shape is easier with a property management team. Contact Gulf Coast Property Management to discuss our management solutions. We've been helping investors since 2003.
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