Hurricane Preparedness:
Ensuring Your Commercial Property is Storm-Ready
Wm. Brady McGill, CPM | June, 2024
As a veteran commercial property management firm in Central Florida, we know firsthand the importance of being prepared for hurricane season. The region’s vulnerability to powerful storms requires proactive measures to safeguard both property and tenant welfare. At First Capital Property Group, we are committed to ensuring that our managed properties are thoroughly prepared to face any hurricane threat. Our team’s dedication to safety and readiness means we take comprehensive measures to protect our properties and ensure swift recovery post-storm.
Year-Round Preparedness and Planning
Effective hurricane preparedness starts well before the storm season. At FCPG, we implement a detailed, year-round strategy to identify and mitigate potential risks at each property we manage. This includes regular risk assessments, securing building features, and maintaining essential emergency supplies. We also work closely with our tenants to ensure they are well-informed and ready to act when necessary.
Pre-Storm Actions and Tenant Coordination
1. Tenant Communication and Emergency Contact Forms: We stress the importance of up-to-date emergency contact information. This updated contact list is vital for facilitating effective communication before, during, and after a storm.
2. Hurricane Watch Preparations: Upon the issuance of a Hurricane Watch, FCPG will begin preparations without disrupting normal operations if possible. This includes securing loose items, reinforcing building structures, and readying emergency supplies. We encourage tenants to start implementing their hurricane plans as well. Don’t wait until the last minute—preparation is key to minimizing damage and ensuring safety.
3. Hurricane Warning and Property Closure: When a Hurricane Warning or evacuation order is issued, we will announce a total evacuation of the property. All personnel must leave immediately, with no exceptions. It is essential to have your hurricane plan ready and implement it as soon as potential activity is detected in the Atlantic Ocean. Waiting until a Hurricane Watch is issued only leaves approximately 36 hours to prepare.
4. Creating a Comprehensive Hurricane Plan: Each business should have a detailed hurricane plan covering preparation and recovery operations. This plan should be reviewed by all key personnel and include contact information for all employees and management staff, a clear chain of command, and assigned responsibilities for securing and protecting property and critical data. Important records should be backed up, and emergency supplies should be purchased well in advance.
5. Securing Property and Equipment: Steps should be taken to protect all valuable equipment and documents. Move items to safe locations, cover them with heavy plastic, and unplug all electronic devices. Install hurricane panels or shutters, ensure proper training for their installation, and avoid damaging windows or facades.
6. Insurance Verification and Business Interruption Coverage: Verify that your insurance policies are current and provide adequate coverage, including business interruption insurance. It is critical to ensure that your policies do not expire during hurricane season, as insurers will not offer coverage once a storm is near Florida.
Post-Storm Recovery and Assessment
After the storm passes, FCPG is committed to a swift and thorough recovery process. Our property management team will assess the condition of common areas and dispatch repair crews immediately. We maintain open communication with our tenants, providing updates on property status and safe return procedures.
1. Initial Property Assessments: We will assess the property as soon as it is safe to do so. Tenants are advised to monitor updates from local officials and wait until it is safe to travel before returning to the property.
2. Safe Reoccupation and Clean-Up: Once on-site, only key personnel should initially return. Assess the condition of your space to ensure it is safe to reoccupy and implement a clean-up team to establish a safe working environment.
3. Insurance Claims and Recovery: Begin the claim procedure with your insurance company promptly. Document all damages and organize recovery efforts efficiently to return to normal operations as quickly as possible.
At FCPG, we take hurricane preparedness seriously, ensuring that our properties and tenants are protected and ready to face any storm. Our comprehensive strategies and dedicated team provide peace of mind for property owners and tenants alike. If you want your property to be in the best hands this hurricane season, contact us today for your property management needs.