Living on Florida’s coast offers sun, surf, and unmatched outdoor life—but it also means planning for storms, flooding, and changing shorelines. Whether you own a beachside home, rent a condo for a vacation, or manage a rental property, a few practical steps can reduce risk, protect value, and help you enjoy the state responsibly.

Know the risks
Florida’s low-lying coastline and porous limestone make it especially vulnerable to storm surge, high tides, and frequent heavy rainfall. Sea level rise and more intense storms are changing the frequency and reach of coastal flooding.

Understanding your property’s elevation and local flood zones is the first practical step toward smarter decisions.

For homeowners: prioritize resilience
– Elevate critical systems: Move HVAC units, electrical panels, and utilities above likely flood levels. When renovations are planned, consider raising living spaces where feasible.
– Flood-proof where possible: Install flood vents and use water-resistant materials for lower floors. Replace drywall with cement-board alternatives in areas prone to flooding.
– Strengthen the building envelope: Impact-resistant windows, storm shutters, and reinforced garage doors reduce wind damage and lower insurance costs.
– Landscape for drainage: Native plants, rain gardens, and permeable paving reduce runoff and help protect nearby wetlands. Preserving dune systems and vegetation buffers stabilizes beaches and reduces erosion.

– Insurance and paperwork: Flood damage isn’t covered by standard homeowners policies — check flood insurance options and keep important documents in a waterproof, accessible place. Maintain current photos of your property for claims.

For renters and visitors: travel smart and stay flexible
– Check cancellation and evacuation policies: Know a rental’s refund and cancellation rules in case a storm threatens. Keep contact info for property managers and local emergency offices.

– Pack a compact emergency kit: Include water, snacks, a flashlight, phone chargers, essential medications, and copies of IDs and reservation details.
– Monitor official sources: Follow local emergency management, the National Hurricane Center, and county alerts for watches, warnings, and evacuation orders. Social media and hotel apps can amplify official guidance but verify through direct channels.

Community and ecosystem actions matter
Living responsibly means supporting natural defenses.

Dune restoration, living shorelines, and Everglades protection projects all reduce flood risk and preserve biodiversity. Where possible, choose native landscaping, avoid filling marshes, and support local conservation initiatives that improve resilience across neighborhoods and coasts.

Long-term choices
For long-term peace of mind, weigh elevation, location, and maintenance costs when buying coastal property. Consider resilience upgrades as investments that protect value and reduce disruptions. For property managers, clear tenant guidance and proactive upgrades are key to maintaining occupancy and reputation.

Florida’s coasts remain a major draw for lifestyle and business. With practical preparation, smarter design choices, and community-minded stewardship, residents and visitors can enjoy the state’s shoreline while reducing risks to people, property, and the environment.

Check county emergency management and federal resources for the latest guidance tailored to your area.