Consider the impact of hurricane winds on your home and consult a qualified expert if you have questions.
Manufactured and Mobile Homes:
• Anchors are required per Florida law.
• Check tie-downs at least once a year.
• Review Florida Administrative Code 15C-1 for tie-down requirements.
• Utility/storage sheds, carports, and other vulnerable structures need to be secured.
• No matter how good your tie-downs are, evacuation is the best plan to save your life.
Things you will want to know:
• When was your home built?
• Where are you located?
• How many stories is your home?
• How strong are your walls?
• What kind of roof do you have?
• How is the roof connected to the walls?
• How do you protect the openings in your home?
Find Hurricane Preparedness video series at www.leegov.com/Hurricane.
Are you covered?
Most property owners have homeowners insurance coverage insuring them from catastrophic loss. However, a homeowners policy does not protect you from loss due to flooding or rising water.
To insure your home from flood (rising water), you must have a separate flood insurance policy. Lee County qualifies and participates in the National Flood Insurance Program.
If you do not have a flood insurance policy, check with your insurance agent for a price quote on your home and your personal property.
Do not wait!
There is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance becomes effective, unless you are purchasing a new home with a mortgage.
These insurance tips may reduce your risk of harm and quicken the recovery process.
BEFORE THE STORM
Know your coverage
Check that your insurance covers improvements you’ve made. Obtain flood insurance.
Take a household inventory
Itemize your personal property, costs, dates of purchase, and serial numbers.
Safeguard your records
Have important papers like insurance policies, mortgages, titles, auto and health insurance in a central place.
AFTER THE STORM
Report damage immediately
Obtain a claim number and a “Claims phone number” if available.
Document emergency repairs
Take photos of damage before and after repairs. Keep receipts. Make copies for your records.
Secure your property
Remove valuable items. Lock windows and doors. Place valuables in a safe deposit box or take them with you.
National Flood Insurance Program Information: www.fema.gov/flood-insurance.
Source: Lee County Emergency Management
