Frequently Asked Questions: Hurricane Preparedness, Damage Reporting, and Repairs

1. How can I prepare my home for Hurricane Milton?

Tenants:
We advise all tenants to secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, plants, and loose objects that could become projectiles during high winds. Ensure your emergency kit is ready with water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and essential medications. Refer to our Pre-Storm Preparation Checklist for detailed guidance.

Owners:
Please ensure your property is prepped according to local guidelines. If your property is vacant, make sure it is secured by locking all doors and windows. Verandah Properties will guide tenants on their responsibilities, but owners are ultimately responsible for additional preparations like securing storm shutters or boarding up windows if necessary.

2. What should I do if I experience a power outage?

If you experience a power outage during the storm, please contact your utility provider immediately:

• Duke Energy: 1-800-228-8485
• Florida Power & Light (FPL): 1-800-468-8243
• Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC): 407-423-9018

Be sure to unplug non-essential electronics to prevent damage from power surges when electricity is restored.

3. How do I report damage to my property after the storm?

Tenants:
You can report damage directly through the Tenant Portal on our website. Please fill out the damage reporting form, indicate whether the damage is related to roof leaks, flooding, or other structural issues, and upload photos. If the portal is unavailable, you may also call our emergency number for critical issues like severe flooding or roof damage. Visit our Damage Reporting Page for more details.

Owners:
You will receive notifications about tenant-reported damage through the Owner Portal. You can track the progress of repairs and submit any required information for insurance claims through the following form as well.

4. How long will repairs take after the storm?

Repair timelines will vary based on the severity of the damage, the availability of vendors, and any potential obstacles like downed trees or flooded roads. Our first priority will be addressing critical issues such as roof leaks, flooding, and structural damage. We are working closely with our vendors, but please understand that their response times may be impacted by the widespread recovery efforts across the region.

5. Who is responsible for contacting insurance providers?

Owners:
You are responsible for contacting your insurance provider to file a claim if your property is damaged. Once the claim has been filed, please provide us with the claim number and your adjuster’s contact information via the following form. We will assist by providing your insurance company with tenant contact details and facilitating property access for inspections.

Tenants:
If your personal belongings are damaged, you will need to contact your renter's insurance provider to file a claim. Be sure to document all damage with photos for your records.

6. What is Verandah Properties' role in storm recovery?

Verandah Properties will guide tenants on securing properties before the storm and will prioritize critical repairs like roof tarping and water mitigation after the storm. However, we do not provide pre-storm services such as window boarding or purchasing storm supplies. We work with vendors to address damage after the storm, but repair timelines may be extended due to the widespread nature of the storm's impact.

7. Can I expect regular updates from Verandah Properties during and after the storm?

Yes! We will provide regular updates on the status of properties and repairs through our website and email communications. Please check the Owner or Tenant Portal for ongoing updates and stay connected to ensure you receive the latest information.

Stay safe,
The Verandah Properties Team