Preparing for Florida’s Hurricane Season and Upcoming Sales Tax Holidays
As we approach hurricane season here in Lake County, FL, it’s crucial to be prepared and informed about the latest developments. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, having a solid plan in place can make all the difference. In this blog post, I’ll cover essential tips for hurricane preparedness, share information about upcoming sales tax holidays, highlight some insurance premium breaks, and offer additional precautions for severe weather. Plus, don’t miss the link to my latest YouTube video where I delve deeper into these topics!
Hurricane Preparedness: Key Steps to Take Now
Hurricane season in Florida typically runs from June 1 to November 30, and being proactive can help protect your home and loved ones. Here are some essential steps to take:
- Create an Emergency Kit: Include non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
- Develop a Family Plan: Ensure everyone knows evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a safe meeting place.
- Secure Your Property: Check your home for vulnerabilities. Install storm shutters or plywood on windows, trim trees, and secure loose outdoor items.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather updates from reliable sources. Sign up for local alerts and have a battery-powered radio handy.
Additional Precautions for Severe Weather
Severe weather can strike suddenly, so it’s important to be ready for all types of emergencies. Here are some additional precautions to consider:
- Know Your Area’s Risk: Different areas have different risks for flooding, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Understanding your specific risks can help tailor your preparedness plans.
- Prepare Your Home: Ensure your home is equipped to handle severe weather. This includes reinforcing your roof, securing doors, and having a safe room or storm shelter if possible.
- Keep Important Documents Safe: Store important documents such as insurance papers, birth certificates, and deeds in a waterproof and fireproof container.
- Emergency Contacts and Communication Plan: Have a list of emergency contacts and establish a communication plan with family and friends.
- Keep gas tanks half full : Consider keeping your vehicle’s gas tanks at least half full during hurricane season to ensure you have enough fuel to evacuate as soon as possible without worrying about long lines at gas stations and to avoid gas shortages prior to a storm. If you own an electric vehicle, it’s recommended that the battery be maintained between 50% – 80% capacity at all times, depending on the type of vehicle and what the vehicle’s manual recommends.
Upcoming Sales Tax Holidays and Insurance Premium Breaks
Good news for Florida residents! The state has announced several sales tax holidays and insurance premium breaks aimed at providing financial relief and encouraging preparedness. This means that sales tax isn’t levied on certain types of spending. There are some limits and stipulations imposed with these Sales Tax Holidays, so make sure you are aware of those conditions.
Sales Tax Holidays:
- Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday: Running from June 1 – 14, and again Aug. 24 – Sept. 6, this holiday allows you to purchase essential disaster supplies like generators, batteries, and tarps tax-free.
- Tool-Time Sales Tax Holiday: Scheduled for Sept. 1 to Sept. 7, this is a great opportunity to purchase power tools, hand tools, toolboxes, and more without paying sales tax. You may need these tools after a storm.
Insurance Premium Breaks:
- Homeowners Insurance Discounts: Florida insurers are offering discounts for home improvements that reduce hurricane damage risks, such as installing impact-resistant windows or reinforcing your roof. Make sure to check with your insurance provider to see what discounts you might qualify for. Also, new this year is a one-year eliminated of the tax on residential property and flood insurance premiums. This tax takes effect for policies written after Oct. 1, 2024.
Maximizing Property Value After a Disaster
Recovering from a disaster is challenging and the first 48 hours are critical to mitigating the costs of restoring a damaged home, but it’s also an opportunity to enhance your property’s value. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Assess and Document Damage: Thoroughly assess and document the damage for insurance claims. Detailed records will help with filing claims and can also be useful for future reference.
- Find a Trustworthy Restoration Company: It is essential to have a trustworthy restoration company on hand. They are the people who will build back your home to the way it was or improve upon it. Seek a full-service company that can tackle all aspects of restoration, including mitigation, addressing the damage, demolition and reconstruction. This means you won’t have to juggle multiple contractors at once.
- Upgrade During Repairs: Consider upgrading materials and systems when making repairs. Opt for impact-resistant windows, modern HVAC systems, and durable roofing materials that can increase your property’s value and make it more resilient to future disasters. Upgrading kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most effective ways to increase your home’s value.
- Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Incorporate energy-efficient appliances and fixtures as well as sustainable materials during the rebuilding process. Energy-efficient and sustainable homes can reduce utility costs and improve the overall value of your home.
Watch My Latest YouTube Video
For a more in-depth discussion on preparing for hurricane season and making the most of these financial breaks, watch my latest YouTube video. I cover additional tips and share personal insights to help you stay safe and save money this season.
Stay Prepared and Stay Safe
Preparing for hurricane season and taking advantage of sales tax holidays and insurance premium breaks can significantly reduce stress and financial strain. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Stay safe, Lake County!
Sources & References:
- Prepare Now: Hurricane Season Nears
- Sales Tax Holidays, Insurance Premium Breaks Ahead
- Precautions to Take Before Severe Weather Hits
- Maximize Property Value After a Disaster
- Visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide to download the full 2024 Florida Hurricane Guide, which includes ways to keep individuals, families and pets prepared and informed for the season ahead.
- There are some limits and stipulations imposed with these Sales Tax Holidays, so please read more online at floridarevenue.com/SalesTaxHolidays.
