Charlotte County Hurricane History: Hurricane Charley (2004) made direct landfall as a Category 4 in Punta Gorda. Hurricane Ian (2022) caused significant storm surge in Port Charlotte. Being prepared isn't optional—it's essential.
Hurricane season runs June 1 - November 30, with peak activity August through October. This guide covers everything you need to protect your family, home, and finances.
Insurance Essentials
Understanding your coverage before a storm is critical. You need TWO separate policies:
Homeowners Insurance (Wind)
- ✓ Covers wind damage, rain intrusion (if wind-caused)
- ✗ Does NOT cover flood or storm surge
- ⚠️ Hurricane deductibles: Often 2-5% of dwelling coverage
Flood Insurance (Separate)
- ✓ Required if in FEMA flood zone with mortgage
- ✓ Covers rising water (storm surge, heavy rain)
- ⚠️ 30-day waiting period—buy before season!
- 💰 Average: $500-$2,500/year in Charlotte County
Cost-Saving Tip: A Wind Mitigation Inspection ($75-150) can save 10-45% on premiums. It documents hurricane-resistant features like roof straps, impact windows, and secondary water barriers.
What Wind Mitigation Inspectors Check
- Roof shape: Hip roofs perform better than gable
- Roof-to-wall attachment: Clips, straps, or toe-nails (straps are best)
- Roof deck attachment: 6" vs 8" nail spacing
- Roof covering: Impact-rated shingles, metal, or tile
- Opening protection: Impact windows/doors, or approved shutters
- Secondary water resistance (SWR): Barrier under roof covering
3-Phase Hurricane Prep Checklist
1Before Hurricane Season (May)
- ☐ Review insurance policies (wind + flood); update coverage if needed
- ☐ Photograph home interior/exterior for insurance records
- ☐ Trim trees/branches within 10 feet of home
- ☐ Inspect roof for loose shingles; repair now
- ☐ Clean gutters and downspouts
- ☐ Test generator; stock fuel stabilizer
- ☐ Stock water (1 gallon/person/day for 7 days) and non-perishables
- ☐ Refill prescriptions (30-day supply minimum)
- ☐ Identify evacuation route and shelter locations
- ☐ Install storm shutters or measure windows for plywood
272 Hours Before Landfall
- ☐ Fill vehicles with gas (stations run out quickly)
- ☐ Withdraw cash ($500+ recommended; ATMs may be offline)
- ☐ Charge all devices, power banks, batteries
- ☐ Fill bathtubs with water (for flushing if water service lost)
- ☐ Move outdoor furniture, grills, trash cans into garage
- ☐ Install shutters or board windows
- ☐ Turn refrigerator/freezer to coldest setting
- ☐ Locate important documents in waterproof bag
- ☐ Prepare "go bag" if evacuation ordered
324 Hours Before Landfall
- ☐ If evacuating: Leave early (before roads clog)
- ☐ If staying: Move to interior room away from windows
- ☐ Turn off utilities if instructed
- ☐ Unplug electronics to prevent surge damage
- ☐ Close all interior doors
- ☐ Secure pets indoors with supplies
- ☐ Monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local news
Go Bag Essentials
IDs, insurance cards, cash • Medications (7 days) • Phone chargers, power bank • Flashlight, batteries • First aid kit • Change of clothes • Pet supplies • Document copies
After the Storm
Safety First
- ⚠️ Do NOT return until officials say it's safe
- ⚠️ Avoid downed power lines (assume they're live)
- ⚠️ Do NOT use generator indoors (carbon monoxide risk)
- 📸 Photograph ALL damage before cleanup (for insurance)
- 🧤 Wear protective gear during cleanup
- ⏰ Mold starts growing within 24-48 hours
Insurance Claims
- ✓ Contact your insurance company immediately
- ✓ Document everything: photos, videos, receipts
- ✓ Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage (save receipts)
- ✗ Do NOT throw away damaged items until adjuster sees them
- ✓ Keep a claim diary (dates, names, conversations)
Contractor Fraud Prevention
- ✓ Get 3 written estimates
- ✓ Verify contractor license: myfloridalicense.com
- ✓ Never pay 100% upfront (30% deposit max)
- ✓ Get written contract with timeline and payment schedule
- ⚠️ Beware of out-of-state "storm chasers"
Emergency Resources
Charlotte County Emergency
charlottecountyfl.gov/emergency
Hotline: 941-833-4000
FL Emergency Management
floridadisaster.org
App: "FDEM"
National Hurricane Center
nhc.noaa.gov
Flood Insurance
floodsmart.gov
Questions About Storm-Ready Homes?
Leo can help you find homes with hurricane-resistant features, understand insurance requirements, and navigate the buying process.