Fort Myers Property Management Blog

Hurricane Idalia Preparedness Guide for Renters in Southwest Florida


Royal Palm Property Management - Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Dedicated to ensuring the well-being of our tenants, we understand the gravity of Hurricane Idalia's threat to Southwest Florida. Hurricanes can be unpredictable and pose a significant threat to both property and personal safety. To help our residents navigate through this challenging time, we've put together a list of frequently asked questions and helpful tips for hurricane preparedness in light of Hurricane Idalia's approach.


1. What should I do with Hurricane Idalia approaching?

With Hurricane Idalia approaching, it's crucial to stay informed by monitoring local news and official weather channels for updates specific to this storm. Follow any evacuation orders given by local authorities and stay tuned to updates from Royal Palm Property Management for guidance tailored to the impact of Hurricane Idalia on your rental property.


2. How can I secure my belongings during Hurricane Idalia?
Prioritize securing outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong winds. Board up (or install shutters if available)  windows and doors, and consider moving valuable or sensitive items to higher ground or into plastic bins to protect against potential flooding caused by Hurricane Idalia.


3. What should I do in case of a power outage during Hurricane Idalia?

Have a basic emergency kit on hand, including flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit. Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer to keep food from spoiling. If the power outage caused by Hurricane Idalia is prolonged, Royal Palm Property Management will communicate updates about repairs and restoration.


4. Regarding property repairs after Hurricane Idalia, what's my responsibility? 

Generally, property repairs resulting from Hurricane Idalia are the responsibility of the property owner. However, tenants are responsible for promptly notifying us about any damages or concerns related to Hurricane Idalia. This enables us to initiate the repair process efficiently. Please submit work orders for any damages in your resident portal:  https://royalpalmpropertymanagement.managebuilding.com/Resident/portal/loginPlease understand that due to high call volume, non emergency work orders can not be accepted over the phone. 


5. Can I terminate my lease if Hurricane Idalia damages the property?

In cases of severe damage caused by Hurricane Idalia that render the property uninhabitable, tenants may have the option to terminate the lease. Contact Royal Palm Property Management to discuss the situation and understand your options in light of Hurricane Idalia's impact. Email managers@royalpalmpm.com and be sure to include your full property address.


6. What if there's flooding due to Hurricane Idalia? 

If flooding occurs due to Hurricane Idalia, avoid driving or walking through flooded areas, as they may be deeper than they appear. Follow evacuation orders if issued and reach out to us if flooding affects your rental property due to Hurricane Idalia.


7. What if my personal belongings are damaged by Hurricane Idalia?

If your personal belongings are damaged due to Hurricane Idalia, having renter's insurance in place is vital. Our requirement for renter's insurance is designed specifically to offer you comprehensive protection for your personal possessions. In the unfortunate event that your belongings are damaged or lost, renter's insurance can play a vital role in covering the costs of replacement or repair. Additionally, if you're enrolled in our Resident Benefit Package, you have the convenience of submitting a claim online for any damages resulting from the hurricane. You can access the claims submission form using this link: https://claims.myinsurance.io/form-6284441/


As Hurricane Idalia poses a direct threat to Southwest Florida, Royal Palm Property Management is committed to your safety and well-being. We urge all renters to take Hurricane Idalia preparedness seriously and follow the guidelines provided in this blog post. By staying informed, having an emergency plan tailored to Hurricane Idalia's impact, and working together with us, we can collectively reduce risks and ensure a safer experience during this challenging time.

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