What to do after a Florida hurricane.
A practical starting point for immediate safety, damage documentation, official assistance, contractor screening, and insurance conversations after a storm.
First 24 hours after the storm passes
- Safety first. Stay inside until officials say roads are clear. Treat every downed wire as live. Don't wade or drive through standing water — surge water can be electrified or contaminated.
- Document everything. Before you move anything, photograph every damaged room, the exterior, and the property line. Time-stamped photos win insurance claims.
- Prevent further water intrusion only when it is safe. Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof. Ask your insurer about emergency mitigation and use a properly licensed professional.
- Call your insurance carrier. Open a claim before contractors show up. Get your claim number written down.
- Verify every contractor. Florida law requires general contractors to be DBPR-licensed. Demand the license number. Never pay in full upfront.
Post-storm service listings by category
Browse Florida business listings for common post-storm services. Verify current licensing directly with the appropriate state or local agency before hiring.
Insurance claim playbook
1. File the claim first
Contact your carrier promptly and ask which deadlines, documentation, and emergency repairs apply to your policy. Keep copies of every photo, receipt, estimate, and message.
2. Demand the licensed adjuster
Only Florida-licensed adjusters can legally inspect your damage. Verify their license via the Florida DFS portal before they enter your home.
3. Save every receipt
Tarps, plywood, generator fuel, hotel stays, food while displaced — Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage reimburses these if you keep receipts.
4. Beware AOB forms
An Assignment of Benefits (AOB) transfers your claim rights to a contractor. Florida law has tightened AOB abuse but it can still cost you. Read every form. When in doubt, refuse.
⚠️ How to spot a hurricane scam contractor
- Unmarked truck and out-of-state plates. Storm-chasers move in by the thousands after every major Florida storm.
- Pressures you to sign on the spot. Legitimate contractors give you 72 hours and a written estimate.
- Demands a large payment before work begins. Get the payment schedule, cancellation terms, and scope in writing before paying.
- Won't give a DBPR license number. Always verify at MyFloridaLicense.com before signing.
- Doors-and-windows pitch. A contractor knocking unsolicited is almost always trouble post-storm.
Report price gouging or unlicensed contractors to the Florida AG: 1-866-9-NO-SCAM or myfloridalegal.com.