FL Hurricane Season Alert (June-Nov)
Post-storm plumbing calls surge 300-500%. Book emergency service BEFORE a storm approaches — plumbers fill up fast during and after hurricanes. Don't wait until after landfall.
Insurance Documentation Tip
Most FL homeowners policies cover sudden, accidental water damage. Before any repairs: photograph and video everything. Keep all receipts. Do NOT wait for an adjuster before stopping active leaks — mitigating damage is required and expected by your insurer.
FL Hurricane Plumbing Prep
Before a Hurricane: - Know exactly where your main shutoff valve is - Shut off main water if mandatory evacuation is ordered - Save emergency plumber number to your phone - Photograph all exposed pipes now for insurance records
After a Hurricane: - Inspect visible pipes before restoring water supply - Check water heater for storm or flood damage - Check pressure relief valve on water heater - Run water slowly at first — debris can clog aerators
Must-Have FL Insurance Rider
FL homeowners: add a "water backup and sump overflow" rider to your policy — typically $50-100/yr. This covers sewage backups, one of the most common FL plumbing emergencies, which are excluded from standard policies.
60-Second Emergency Plumber Vetting
Ask vetting questions before letting anyone through the door (license verification, upfront emergency rate, etc.). Consider home age in assessing risk: new construction (2010+); 2000-2010; 1990-2000; 1978-1990 (polybutylene pipe risk); pre-1978 (cast iron / galvanized).