If you own a home in Florida, April isn't just the start of spring—it's the perfect time to get real about your storm season strategy. Why? Because once a named storm forms in the Atlantic, insurance companies may freeze your policy. That means no new coverage, no last-minute changes, and no safety net unless you’ve already taken care of it.

Whether you’re new to Florida or just haven’t looked at your policy in a while, this post breaks down what you need to know about hurricane insurance, how HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zones) affect you, and what you can do right now to be storm-ready.

🌪️ What Is HVHZ and Why Should You Care?

HVHZ stands for High Velocity Hurricane Zone, a classification used in Florida’s building code that applies to areas most vulnerable to hurricane-force winds—primarily coastal regions like Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.

If your home is in an HVHZ:

• Stricter building codes apply, especially for windows, roofs, and exterior attachments (yes, that includes patios and lanais).

• Screen enclosures and storm protection must meet specific wind load and debris impact standards.

If you’re unsure whether your area qualifies, a licensed contractor like Florida Living Outdoor can help assess your home’s current level of storm resistance—and upgrade your outdoor spaces with MagnaTrack Motorized Screens that meet or exceed HVHZ codes.

📝 Understanding Hurricane Insurance in Florida

You might assume your homeowner’s policy automatically covers all hurricane damage—but that's rarely the case. Here’s what you should double-check before June:

1. The Hurricane Deductible

Florida policies include a separate hurricane deductible, usually between 2% and 10% of your insured dwelling value.
So, if your home is insured for $400,000 and you have a 5% hurricane deductible, you’re responsible for the first $20,000 in storm damage.

👉 Learn more at the Florida CFO site

2. Wind-Driven Rain

Damage caused by rain entering through wind-damaged openings (like windows, doors, or roof vents) may not be covered unless there is an actual breach in the structure.

3. Flood Insurance Is Separate

Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flooding from storm surge, rising groundwater, or flash floods.
You’ll need a separate policy through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.

4. No Changes Allowed Once a Storm Is Named

The moment a storm is named and enters the forecast cone, insurance companies can issue a moratorium—meaning no changes, no new policies, and no upgrades. If your coverage isn’t up to par by then, you’re on your own.

👉 FAIA breaks it all down clearly here

🧾 Real-World Tip: Document Everything Now

Before storm season ramps up:

• Photograph your home, including the roof, windows, patio, and screens.

• Take a video walk-through of your interior and belongings.

• Save digital and hard copies of your insurance policies, receipts for valuables, and home improvements.

• Store it in multiple places—cloud storage, email, and a waterproof container.

This documentation can speed up your claim and protect your interests when it matters most.

🛡️ HVHZ and Patio Protection: What You Can Do

Outdoor living is a way of life in Florida—but so is storm season. If you have a patio or lanai, it’s one of the most vulnerable areas of your home.

MagnaTrack Motorized Screens offer a revolutionary solution:

• Engineered to withstand Category 5-level winds

• Prevents furniture from becoming projectiles

• Protects against wind-driven rain

• Complies with HVHZ code standards

Installed professionally by Florida Living Outdoor, these systems not only protect your home—they preserve your lifestyle.

✅ Action Steps for April

1. Review your homeowner’s insurance and understand your hurricane deductible

2. Make sure you have flood insurance if needed

3. Document your home with photos and videos

4. Don’t wait—once June hits, policy changes may no longer be possible

5. Schedule a consultation for a hurricane-rated screen system like MagnaTrack

You can’t stop the storm. But you can outsmart it.
Start with your insurance. Fortify your outdoor spaces. And make April the month you finally get ahead of hurricane season.

👉 Visit Florida Living Outdoor to learn how we help homeowners protect their patios and lanais the right way—before it’s too late.