Hurricane Season Preparedness 2026

Hurricane season is here, and while no one can predict exactly where or when a storm will strike, preparation remains your best defense against costly damage and disruption. Taking proactive steps today can make all the difference tomorrow protecting your family and assets.

At Schirmer Insurance Group, we’re committed to helping our clients stay informed, protected, and prepared throughout hurricane season. Here’s what customers should know before the next storm develops.

Is Your Home Prepared?

Your home is one of your largest investments, and hurricane-related damage can happen quickly through wind, rain, falling trees, and flooding.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Before a storm is approaching, review your current insurance policies and understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.

Key areas to review include:

• Homeowners Insurance
• Condo Insurance
• Renters Insurance
• Windstorm Deductibles
• Flood Insurance Coverage
• Personal Property Limits

One of the most common misconceptions is that homeowners insurance covers flooding. In reality, flood damage is generally excluded from standard homeowners policies and requires separate flood insurance coverage.

Know Your Flood Risk: Homeowners, Renters or Business Owners | FEMA.gov
https://www.sigsc.com/blog/what-insurance-covers-in-2026/

Create or Update Home Inventory

Having documentation of your belongings can significantly speed up the claims process after a loss.

Property to Document:

• Taking photos or videos of each room
• Recording serial numbers for electronics and appliances
• Keeping receipts for major purchases
• Storing records securely in the cloud

A detailed inventory helps ensure you receive proper reimbursement for damaged or destroyed belongings.

Strengthen Your Home Against Storm Damage

Simple maintenance and preparation can help reduce the severity of hurricane-related losses.

Outside Your Home

• Trim tree limbs and remove dead branches
• Secure patio furniture and outdoor decor
• Clean gutters and drains
• Inspect your roof for loose shingles
• Install storm shutters if available

Inside Your Home

• Charge mobile devices and backup batteries
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Store important documents in waterproof containers
• Move valuables away from low-lying areas that could flood

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

Every household should be prepared to be self-sufficient for several days.

Include:

Water and non-perishable food

Prescription medications

Flashlights and batteries

Portable phone chargers

First-aid supplies

Important documents

Pet food and supplies

Cash for emergency purchases

Remember that power outages may last longer than expected after a major storm. Prepare for at least 14 days.

Know Your Evacuation Plan

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, don’t wait.

Make sure your family:

• Knows evacuation routes
• Has a designated meeting location
• Understands emergency communication plans
• Has transportation arrangements in place
• Remember to include your pets in your evacuation plan

https://www.scemd.org/

After the Storm: What Should You Do?

If your home experiences damage:

1. Safety First

• Watch for structural damage
• Stay away from downed power lines
• Follow local emergency guidance

2. Document Damage

Take photographs and videos before beginning cleanup efforts.

Capture:

• Building damage
• Damaged contents
• Vehicle damage
• Inventory losses

3. Prevent Further Damage

Most insurance carriers will allow you to mitigate damage to prevent additional damage. Mitigate, do not repair. The claims adjuster will need to see damage.

Examples include:

• Tarping damaged roofs
• Boarding broken windows
• Removing standing water when safe

Keep receipts for emergency repairs and mitigation expenses.

4. Contact Schirmer Insurance Group

Our team is here to help guide you through the claims process and connect you with your carrier as quickly and efficiently as possible.

We’re Here to Help

Preparation today can save time, money, and stress tomorrow. Whether you’re reviewing your homeowners policy, exploring flood insurance options our agents are ready to help.

Don’t wait until a storm is named. Contact Schirmer Insurance Group today for a personal insurance review and make sure you’re prepared for whatever the 2026 hurricane season may bring.