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Is your home ready for a hurricane?

Posted at 5:37 PM, Aug 25, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-26 04:30:29-04

McKay Stephan figures he's ready if a storm heads his way. But not everyone knows whether the home they are buying or renting is ready for a hurricane.

Realtor Melissa Maria, who sells and rents homes, says she tells her clients to ask questions.

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"It's very  important that a renter ask their landlord if their windows are hurricane impact, if they have shutters in the home," said Melissa.  

After hurricane Andrew slammed into South Florida in 1992, state leaders toughened building codes. But how do you know if your home or apartment is ready for a powerful storm?  

"They should look at the age of the roof, they should look at the condition of the roof and also to see if the home has shutter, has impact windows and so forth," said Oscar Del Rey, with the Floridian Discount Insurance Agency.

For renters, "You should get a copy of the master policy for the the condominium association, if it's coastal, 99 percent it would have flood coverage," he added. 

When it comes to flood insurance, you can't just call an agent and get coverage. There is a waiting period, so if you think you need flooding coverage, don't wait.

Hurricane season runs until Nov. 30.