Hurricane season in Southwest Florida runs from June 1 through November 30 — almost perfectly aligned with the period when most seasonal residents are away from their Naples and Marco Island homes.
That timing creates a unique challenge: your property is most vulnerable to storm damage precisely when you are not there to protect it. Proper preparation before you leave, combined with professional home watch monitoring during the season, is the best defense you have.
Before You Leave: Exterior Preparation
Hurricane Shutters and Impact Windows
- Install all hurricane shutters or confirm accordion shutters are in working order
- Test all shutter tracks and hardware — replace any that are stiff or corroded
- If you have impact-resistant windows, inspect for any cracked or compromised glass
- Document shutter installation with photos for insurance purposes
Roof and Gutters
- Have your roof inspected by a licensed roofer
- Clean all gutters and downspouts
- Trim trees and remove dead branches that could become projectiles in high winds
- Remove or secure any loose rooftop equipment
Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
- Bring all outdoor furniture, cushions, and decorative items inside or into storage
- Secure or remove potted plants, planters, and garden ornaments
- Anchor or store grills, umbrellas, and outdoor lighting fixtures
Vehicles and Boats
- If leaving a vehicle, park it in the garage if possible
- Arrange for your boat to be stored in a dry storage facility or properly secured at the dock
- Have dock lines inspected and replaced if worn
Before You Leave: Interior Preparation
Utilities
- Turn off the main water supply valve
- Leave the AC running at 78–80°F to control humidity
- Consider a whole-home surge protector
- Unplug non-essential electronics and appliances
Documents and Valuables
- Store important documents in a waterproof safe or take them with you
- Photograph or video your home's contents for insurance documentation
- Store irreplaceable items in a secure, elevated location or take them with you
Notify the Right People
- Notify your homeowners insurance company that the property will be vacant
- Confirm your insurance policy covers hurricane damage for vacant properties
- Provide your home watch provider with emergency contact information and access instructions
- Register with Collier County's emergency notification system
During Storm Season: What Your Home Watch Provider Does
Before a named storm, a professional home watch service will conduct a pre-storm inspection to verify shutters are closed and outdoor items are secured. After the storm passes, they conduct a post-storm inspection as quickly as possible, document any damage with detailed photos, contact you immediately with a full report, and coordinate emergency repairs with licensed contractors if needed.
This rapid post-storm response is critical. The sooner damage is documented and addressed, the better your insurance claim outcome and the less secondary damage occurs.
Blue Harbor Home Watch provides pre-storm preparation checks and rapid post-storm inspections for seasonal homeowners throughout Southwest Florida. Contact us today to set up your storm season coverage.
