The recent hurricanes in Florida ended with a familiar scene for most property managers — cleanup and recovery. As the sun came up the day after the latest round of storms, people across the state woke to downed trees, no power, damaged homes and debris everywhere. Many properties also had some flooding and need for hurricane cleanup.
The recent batch of storms punched the country harder than most hurricane seasons. Florida saw three hurricane landfalls, with two of them being Category 3 or higher. Hurricane Milton created tornadoes ahead of its hit, causing additional damage.
Although Hurricane Milton cut through the central part of Florida from west to east, Miami-Dade still experienced wind gusts up to 40 mph and rain. Tornadoes pushed through the entire state, with 95 tornado warnings and 42 reports.
What Are Your Responsibilities Stated by Law?
Florida's landlord-tenant laws aren't specific to hurricanes but could still apply.
Review local building, housing and health codes.
Fix and maintain stairs, roof, floors, exterior walls and structure.
Ensure there is running water and hot water.
Clear debris as quickly as possible to keep common areas safe and clean.
You must also consider Florida’s new condo laws. Buildings occupied prior to 1992 must complete an inspection by December 31, 2024, for structural integrity. If the condo is within three miles of a coast and 25 years or older, it must have an inspection by the deadline.
Review your options with a real estate attorney if you’re unsure what laws apply to you. Keep in mind that condo owners and property managers may not be required to do some things, but little steps to expedite hurricane cleanup go a long way toward keeping residents and vacationers happy.
Hit the Ground Running With Hurricane Cleanup
The key to getting properties cleaned up quickly is preparing beforehand whenever possible. Here are some pre-storm tasks as well as what to do if you missed any of these prep items.
1. Buy or Rent Equipment
Hurricanes cause a lot of destruction but provide a big heads-up when they’re on their way, giving you time to prepare for the aftermath. Landlords who have generators and cleanup equipment on hand have the opportunity to get to work the instant the storm ends.
If you can't afford to buy enough generators to keep your residents in power, you can always lease them as needed. You should also consider climate control equipment to keep renters comfortable in the sweltering Florida heat.
2. Communicate
Talking to residents may seem like a given, but when communication systems go down, it can be difficult to reach everyone. Establishing policies ahead of time helps, but you may also need to form a team and go door-to-door to check on people and let them know what you’re working on.
Share safety tips that could save their lives. For example, if there is still flooding, residents should avoid walking through water due to drowning risks. Floodwater can also include bacteria and other contaminants that could make people sick.
3. Inspect the Property
If you haven’t already conducted a detailed inspection of the property, do so as soon as safely possible.
Assess the structural integrity of the building and if it is safe for residents to remain during repairs.
Pay a licensed electrician to check electrical systems, especially if floodwaters entered the building.
Look for damage to roofs and siding, including missing shingles or water ingress.
Move to exterior areas, taking notes on debris blocking access and marking them as urgent repairs.
4. Prioritize Urgent Cleanup First
Some things make the property more livable, and you should prioritize them even before the insurance adjusters make it to your condominiums. Take photos and gather documentation along the way.
Clear all entry points, sidewalks and parking lots for resident safety. If someone needs emergency services, you want an open path.
Hire a company to remove any other debris.
Miami has guidelines about how to properly dispose of hazardous waste, so separate things such as electronics, paint and chemicals for special disposal.
Experts are predicting 60% higher flood insurance premiums in the next 15 years, so be prepared to pay higher deductibles and repair some things on your own.
5. File Claims
Keep a running list of all the storm damage and hurricane cleanup on the property, as some things show up later.
Take photos and videos.
Collect written assessments from inspectors.
Read your insurance policy to see what is covered.
Get adjusters on-site as quickly as possible to get things rolling, Ensuring they have access to various areas.
Working alongside insurance companies can be frustrating. Contact them frequently to check on progress.
Fix the Things You Can and Hire Others to Do the Rest
The aftermath of the storm can be overwhelming to property managers and residents. Your regular maintenance crew can help, but be prepared to hire temporary workers and outside companies to clean things up in a timely manner.
Be prepared for upset residents with high emotions. You may be dealing with damage at your own home, too. Understanding what’s being done when and knowing when things will get back to normal go a long way toward keeping everyone appeased. This time will pass, and you’ll soon only have to contend with the common complaints every property manager gets.
Evelyn Long is a writer that specializes in housing market trends. She is also the founder of Renovated Magazine, where she writes essential resources for renters and homeowners. She has contributed to several other sites like the National Association of Realtors and Realty Executives.
Comments