The Top 5 Things We’ve Learned About Florida Homes in 2024
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was one for the record books, with 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes. Florida bore the brunt of this intense season, with three hurricanes—Debby, Helene, and Milton—causing widespread damage and over $5.36 billion in insured losses. These events highlighted the vulnerabilities of Florida homes and the importance of proper preparation and inspections. At Prime Time Inspections, we’ve seen firsthand how these challenges impact homeowners. Here are the top 5 lessons we’ve learned in 2024.
1. Hurricane Season’s Impact on Florida Homes
This year, Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm near Perry, Florida, with storm surges up to 20 feet and devastating wind damage. Hurricane Milton followed as a Category 3 storm, hitting south of Tampa and flooding large areas of Central Florida.
What We’ve Learned:
Homes without storm-resistant windows, doors, or roofs suffered the most damage.
Post-storm inspections revealed water damage and structural issues, often hidden from plain sight.
Key Insight:
Florida homeowners should prioritize wind mitigation inspections and upgrades, as they not only protect the home but can also lead to significant insurance savings.
2. Roof Vulnerabilities Are Costly
Hurricanes Helene and Milton tested the resilience of Florida roofs. Over 50% of homes we inspected this year had roof damage, often unnoticed until leaks appeared.
What We’ve Learned:
Older roofs are particularly susceptible to wind and rain damage.
Minor issues, such as missing shingles, can escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked.
Key Insight:
Schedule annual roof inspections to catch problems early, especially after storm season. Replacing or reinforcing your roof can save thousands in repair costs.
3. Mold: The Hidden Aftermath of Hurricanes
In the wake of flooding caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, mold growth surged across Central Florida homes. Mold inspections revealed that even minor water intrusion led to significant mold issues, especially in homes with poor ventilation.
What We’ve Learned:
Mold can start growing within 48 hours of water exposure.
Many homeowners underestimate the long-term health risks associated with mold.
Key Insight:
Invest in a mold inspection if your home has experienced water damage. Proactive measures like improved ventilation and dehumidifiers can also help.
4. Energy Efficiency: A Rising Priority for Homeowners
The 2024 storms left thousands of Florida homes without power for days, pushing homeowners to explore energy-efficient solutions. Solar power systems with battery backups became a popular option.
What We’ve Learned:
Properly installed solar panels can provide resilience during power outages.
Energy-efficient windows and insulation reduce cooling costs and improve storm resistance.
Key Insight:
Energy efficiency is not just about saving money—it’s about preparedness. Consider upgrades like hurricane-resistant windows or solar panels to improve your home’s resilience.
5. Preventative Maintenance Saves Time and Money
In 2024, we saw many issues that could have been prevented with routine maintenance. From clogged gutters to foundation cracks, neglecting small tasks led to bigger problems during hurricane season.
What We’ve Learned:
Homes that follow regular maintenance schedules are better equipped to handle severe weather.
Inspections often reveal problems homeowners didn’t know existed.
Key Insight:
Create a yearly maintenance checklist and include professional inspections to stay ahead of potential problems.
Conclusion
2024 was a challenging year for Florida homeowners, but it also highlighted the importance of preparation and maintenance. As we head into 2025, Prime Time Inspections is here to help you protect your biggest investment. Whether it’s a wind mitigation inspection, roof check, or mold evaluation, we’re committed to keeping your home safe and secure.
Don’t wait until the next storm hits—schedule your inspection today. Call us at 813-497-4669 or visit our website at Prime Time Inspections. Let’s make 2025 a year of preparedness and peace of mind.
