🏡 Buying a Home in Florida? Your Hurricane-Ready House Checklist
Thinking of making the Sunshine State your new home? Florida’s sunshine, beaches, and no state income tax make it a dream destination — but before you buy, there's one reality you must prepare for: hurricanes.
Not all Florida homes are created equal when it comes to storm protection. Some are built with resilience in mind, while others are vulnerable to flooding, wind, and costly repairs. This guide walks you through the key things to check before you buy, especially as hurricane season approaches.
1. Understand the Water Risk
Are You in a Flood Zone?
Start with the FEMA Flood Map Tool or ask your agent for flood zone information. Even if a home isn’t in a high-risk area, ask about any past flooding — especially during heavy rains or tropical storms. For example, in areas like Port Orange, homes near the Halifax River or retention ponds may experience unexpected flooding.
Proximity to Water
Assess the distance from the coast, rivers, lakes, creeks, or drainage canals. Living near water is part of Florida’s charm, but it increases storm surge and flood risk. Check topography — is the home elevated or in a low-lying area?
Drainage Conditions
Observe the neighborhood after a hard rain. Do streets or yards drain quickly? Is water pooling? Poor drainage is a red flag, especially during hurricane season. Walk around and look at storm drains, are they full of water, debris?
2. Evaluate the Home’s Storm Resilience
Roof Condition
A roof under 10–15 years old is ideal. Ask for the installation date and maintenance history. Inspect the attic for straps — metal ties that secure the roof to the structure. These reduce the chance of roof lift during high winds…and are often required by insurance companies.
Gutters and Drainage
Check for well-installed gutters and downspouts that direct water away from the home. Look for signs of erosion or poor grading around the foundation.
Ground and Yard Conditions
It’s a bonus if you can visit the home after a rainstorm to look for standing water or spongy ground. Low-lying yards may worsen flood risk and complicate landscaping or drainage. You can also determine this when the ground is dry, but wet ground is a tell.
Moisture and Foundation Issues
Use (or hire someone with) a moisture meter to test floorboards near exterior walls. Carefully inspect visible foundation walls for large cracks, step fractures, or signs of water intrusion. Peek behind outlet covers (with the power off) to check for rust or moisture damage.
(Steps Fracture are common with Florida houses with some age. Avoid new houses with fractures, and any house with a fracture over 1/8'“)
Permits and Repairs
Compare recent repairs with local building permits. Unpermitted work — especially after major storms — could hide deeper issues. Most Florida counties allow public permit searches online.
3. Don’t Skip the Pest & Moisture Inspection
Hurricanes often lead to water damage, which creates ideal conditions for pests and structural issues. A full inspection should cover:
Termite damage, especially subterranean termites
Rotting wood framing
Mold or mildew in crawlspaces and attics
Signs of standing water that may attract pests
4. Ask the Right Questions About the Home’s History
Disclosures are required in Florida, but they don’t always tell the full story. Ask direct questions like:
Has the property had storm damage in recent years (e.g., Hurricane Ian)?
Were insurance claims filed? If not, why?
How were repairs handled — by professionals or DIY?
Have there been any mold issues, drainage problems, or structural repairs?
Be alert to cosmetic cover-ups like fresh paint or new drywall in isolated areas.
5. Assess the Neighborhood, Not Just the House
Storms impact entire communities. Before committing to a property, ask:
Are nearby homes still showing damage from past storms?
Are retention ponds nearby well-maintained?
Does the area drain well after rainstorms?
What’s the local reputation for power outages, flooding, or storm surge?
Talking to neighbors can provide valuable insights.
6. Talk to a Florida Insurance Agent Before You Buy
Florida's property insurance market is unlike anywhere else. Speak with a local agent about:
Hurricane deductibles (often a percentage of your home's insured value)
Wind mitigation features — like impact windows or roof straps — that may lower your premium
Flood insurance — typically not included in standard homeowner's policies, even in lower-risk areas
Understanding your insurance options early can help avoid expensive surprises later.
Final Thoughts: Make a Safe, Storm-Smart Investment
Buying a home in Florida doesn’t have to be risky — as long as you do your homework. Take the time to research the property, the neighborhood, and the storm resilience of the home. It could save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches later.
Remember, it's not about avoiding the beach dream — it’s about making sure your dream home is built to weather the storm.
