Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30 each year. For homeowners along the Florida coast, Texas Gulf Coast, New Jersey shore, and Long Island, the season runs through the busiest insurance claim months of the year. Most homeowner claims after a hurricane are predictable — and most of them are preventable or mitigable with prep work done before storms arrive.
Roof inspection — what to check before June 1
A pre-season roof inspection takes about an hour and most reputable local roofers offer them free as a quote opportunity. The checklist: missing or curled shingles, lifted ridge cap, damaged flashing around chimneys and skylights, gaps in pipe boots, sagging gutters, visible deck damage from inside the attic, and ventilation that's intact and not blocked. A roof more than 12 years old that hasn't been inspected since last hurricane season is at significantly elevated claim risk.
Hurricane-impact windows — when they're required
Florida building code mandates impact-rated windows in wind-borne debris zones (most of the state's coastal counties). Texas coastal counties (Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Harris, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio, Willacy) have similar requirements through the Texas Department of Insurance windstorm program. Even where not required by code, impact-rated windows reduce hurricane risk substantially and qualify for 20-40% insurance discounts on the windstorm portion of premium. Replacement costs $700-$1,200 per window — typically pays back in 7-12 years through insurance savings alone.
Hurricane shutters and panels — the budget option
If full impact-window replacement isn't budget-feasible, accordion shutters or roll-down shutters offer most of the same protection at lower cost ($25-$45 per square foot installed). Plywood panels cut to fit each window are the cheapest option but require storage and pre-storm installation labor. Whatever option you choose, install or test it before June 1 — not the day before landfall.
Insurance documentation — photograph everything now
Take dated photos of your roof (from the ground, plus drone if you can), gutters, exterior siding, windows, fences, and major landscaping before hurricane season starts. Document the interior of each room, your contents (furniture, electronics, appliances), and any visible damage from prior storms. Store these photos in cloud storage, not just on a phone. After a storm, contrast photos help insurance adjusters identify storm damage vs. pre-existing wear — and they prevent disputes when the wind starts blowing.
Tree work and yard prep
Trees within striking distance of the house are the single largest source of preventable hurricane damage. Have an arborist inspect any tree taller than the house — dead branches, weak crotches, root issues. Removing or pruning a single risky tree is dramatically cheaper than the resulting roof claim. Clear gutters of debris, secure outdoor furniture and grills, and trim shrubs away from the house exterior. Coastal homeowners should plan a final yard sweep 48-72 hours before any named storm.
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When does Atlantic hurricane season start in 2026?
June 1, 2026 through November 30, 2026. Peak activity historically runs mid-August through mid-October. Pre-season prep should be complete by Memorial Day weekend.
Do I need impact windows in Florida?
In most coastal counties and wind-borne debris zones, yes — required by code for new construction and major renovations. Even where not required, impact windows are usually worth the cost for storm protection plus 20-40% insurance discount on windstorm premium.
How much does it cost to install hurricane shutters?
Accordion or roll-down shutters: $25-$45 per square foot installed. Aluminum panels: $7-$15 per square foot (you install before storms). Storm panels are the budget option; impact windows are the long-term solution with insurance benefit.
Can I file an insurance claim for hurricane damage even without visible damage?
Damage from a covered named storm event is reimbursable, but adjusters can't pay for damage they can't identify. Document pre-season condition, photograph any post-storm change, and file your claim promptly. Working with a public adjuster (not the insurance company's adjuster) is often worth the 10% fee for claims over $20,000.