HURRICANE PROTECTION FOR RENTAL PROPERTY IN FLORIDA

Appfolio Websites • August 2, 2019

With approaching, it’s important that landlords are prepared for a storm and understand what to do in case an evacuation is ordered. While most Floridians are familiar with hurricanes, it’s never a bad idea to brush up on safety procedures for before, during, and after a storm.

Preparing Your Property and Your Tenants

A proactive landlord can help tenants to prepare for hurricane season by sending out an email or newsletter with hurricane protection reminders. Helpful reminders to include are:

Charging all cell phones, laptops, and other electronics that can be used to communicate.
Stocking up on water and non-perishable food items.
Removing furniture from decks and patios.
Updating emergency contact information.
Obeying evacuation orders.
Turning off power and gas before evacuating.
Not running generators indoors during a power outage.
Fueling vehicles and generators.
Replacing batteries.

If there’s likely to be a hurricane or even a tropical storm heading into your area, make sure there isn’t any deferred maintenance on your property which could create additional problems and expenses during and after a weather event. You’ll want to make sure the roof is intact, the gutters are cleaned of leaves, branches, and other debris, and there isn’t anything loose attached to or around the house. If your property is in a condo or an HOA, you’ll want to follow any of the rules and requirements that come from the association.

During the Storm: Staying in Touch

Make sure you know your tenant’s plans, and share your own. If an evacuation isn’t mandatory and your tenants choose to stay in place, you’ll want to be sure they have everything they need to get through a few days without power. This is a good time to gather all of your insurance paperwork in case a claim needs to be made. Give the property a quick check if you’re local before you shelter at your own home or leave town.

It’s a good idea to post periodic storm updates via text message and social media if a hurricane warning is issued. If an evacuation is ordered, landlords must turn off the gas and electricity at all rental units, distribute information regarding evacuation routes and hurricane shelters, and check in with elderly and disabled tenants to ensure they’re able to evacuate. You’ll want to record emergency voicemails for any tenants who may try to reach you. If you’re working with a property management company, make sure all of your efforts are coordinated.

After the Storm: Cleaning up and Assessing Damage

Once the storm has cleared, you’ll have to inspect your rental properties, check in with tenants, and prepare hurricane damage reports to be filed with insurance companies. The most important thing during a hurricane is your safety and the safety of your loved ones and your tenants. Once you know everyone is okay, it’s time to start thinking about any repairs that you’ll need to make to your investment.

There are a lot of benefits to living in and investing in Florida. There are also some risks, such as dramatic weather.

Hurricane preparation is an essential task for Florida landlords, and property management companies make it easier for landlords to protect their property and residents. If you have any questions or need help, please contact us at Florida Property Management Services.

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By Florida PMServices • September 11, 2026

What is it? A cost segregation study looks at the different parts of a rental property to see which ones can be depreciated faster. This can allow investors to take some deductions sooner instead of spreading them out over the standard 27.5 years. Who uses it? It’s mainly used by real estate investors and property owners who want to claim larger depreciation deductions sooner on their rental properties. A qualified tax professional or cost segregation specialist typically performs the study. Where does it apply? Cost segregation can be used on residential rental properties, including single-family rentals, although whether it makes financial sense depends on the property and the investor's tax situation. The IRS specifically provides guidance for cost segregation studies involving residential rental property. When should investors consider it? It is often considered when purchasing, constructing, or making significant improvements to a rental property. Investors can also look at existing properties, but the potential benefit depends on the property's cost, improvements, and tax circumstances. Why does it matter? The goal is to potentially move some depreciation deductions into earlier years, which can reduce taxable income sooner and potentially improve near-term cash flow. It doesn't create new value in the property, it changes when certain costs may be deducted for tax purposes. Investor Takeaway: A cost segregation study can be worth exploring for investors with higher-value rental properties or significant improvements, but the potential tax benefit varies from property to property. It is recommended to always work with a qualified tax professional to determine whether a study makes sense for your situation.

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