Country Club Living - Palm Beach North - April 2026

A P R I L 2 0 2 6 | C O U N T R Y C L U B L I V I N G - PA L M B E A C H N O R T H 1 3 – By John Carr - Community HOW FLORIDA HOMES AND BUSINESSES CAN PREPARE FOR THE 2026 HURRICANE SEASON Before the Storm: A s Florida approaches the 2026 hurricane season, preparation remains the single most important step residents and business owners can take to reduce risk and speed recovery after a storm. While forecasting technology continues to improve, hurricanes and tropical systems remain unpredictable. The difference between manageable damage and a prolonged disaster often comes down to the preparation done before the first storm forms. Florida’s history offers a clear reminder of why preparation matters. Since 1980, the state has experienced 94 weather and climate disasters, causing more than $1 billion in damage each , with tropical storms and hurricanes accounting for the majority of losses and an estimated $300–$420 billion in total damages . Having spent many years working with property owners across Florida after major storms, one lesson becomes clear: the properties that recover fastest are almost always the ones that prepared in advance. For homeowners, preparation begins with understanding your property’s vulnerabilities. Roof systems, windows, and drainage are the first lines of defense against wind and water intrusion. Inspect your roof for loose or aging materials, clear gutters and downspouts, and confirm storm shutters are operational well before the season begins. If your home uses impact windows, ensure seals are intact, and frames remain secure. Small maintenance issues that seem insignificant during calm weather can become major points of failure during a hurricane. Insurance readiness is another critical step many homeowners overlook. Understanding policy deductibles, wind coverage, and flood exclusions before a storm arrives can prevent significant confusion during the claims process. Documenting your property with photographs or video before the season begins can also make a meaningful difference if damage occurs. Commercial property owners face a different, but equally important, set of challenges. For businesses, storm preparation should extend beyond the building itself and include operational continuity. Backup power, data protection, employee communication plans, and supply chain considerations all play a role in how quickly a business can recover after a storm. From an inspection standpoint, commercial roofs and exterior systems deserve particular attention. In Florida, many of the most significant commercial losses are not caused by dramatic structural failure but by water intrusion through poorly maintained roof systems or drainage issues. Rooftop equipment such as HVAC units, signage, or solar panels should also be evaluated and properly secured before the height of the storm season. Both homeowners and businesses benefit from having a clear emergency plan in place. Families should review evacuation routes and maintain emergency supplies, while businesses should establish vendor relationships in advance for debris removal, temporary repairs, and restoration services. When storms impact Florida communities, response resources can become limited quickly, and those with established plans are often able to recover faster. Florida has weathered many storms over the years, and each season serves as a reminder that resilience begins long before a hurricane makes landfall. Prepared communities recover more efficiently, protect property values, and reduce the strain on emergency services. As the 2026 storm season approaches, taking time now to inspect, document, and plan can make a meaningful difference. A few proactive steps today can help protect homes, safeguard businesses, and strengthen the resilience of communities across Florida when the next storm arrives. For more information or a free consultation, contact John Carr at 561-557-6048 or john@rroffl.com. Email talent@bestversionmedia.com to learn more. BUILD COMMUNITY, ONE PAGE AT A TIME Start Your Publishing Adventure!