Hurricane season in Puerto Rico isn’t just a concern—it’s a reality for property owners. But managing a short-term rental adds an extra layer of complexity. Unlike a personal home, you may not always be there when a storm hits. Guests unfamiliar with the area, evacuation routes, or emergency procedures could be staying in your property during a critical moment.

That’s why preparing your rental property for hurricane season is about more than just protecting your investment—it’s about ensuring the safety of your guests and the long-term reputation of your rental.

This guide will give you practical, actionable steps to safeguard your property, keep guests informed, and recover quickly after a storm.

This guide will give you practical, actionable steps to protect your property, your guests, and your income.

Key Takeaways:

• Inspect and secure your property before hurricane season starts.

• Prepare an emergency kit and a clear guest guide.

• Act quickly after a storm to assess damage and reopen for bookings.

1. Inspect and Fortify Your Property

Preparation begins with identifying weak points in your property and reinforcing them:

• Check the Roof: Look for loose tiles or shingles, repair leaks, and consider hurricane straps for added strength.

• Secure Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect windows. Reinforce doors with braces or strong locks.

• Tidy the Outdoors: Trim trees, secure patio furniture, and remove any objects that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds.

• Seal Openings: Check for gaps around doors, windows, or vents that could let in water.

Emergency Fixes for Last-Minute Preparations:

• Use duct tape to secure cracked windows.

• Move outdoor items indoors if shutters or storage aren’t an option.

• Place towels at the base of doors to prevent minor flooding.

2. Prepare a Guest Emergency Kit and SOP

Guests may not know what to do if a storm hits. Providing clear instructions and supplies can make all the difference.

Emergency Kit Essentials:

• Flashlights and batteries (place an emergency light in a visible spot).

• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks.

• First aid supplies, gloves, and duct tape.

• A battery-powered radio and a list of local emergency numbers.

Create a Guest Guide (SOP):

• Where to Find Supplies: Clearly label and store emergency items in an accessible spot.

• Emergency Instructions: Include evacuation routes, shelter locations, and safety tips.

• Contact Information: Provide numbers for local authorities and your property manager.

Pro Tip: Laminate the instructions and place them next to the emergency light so guests can easily find them.

3. Act Fast After a Storm

Once the storm has passed, quick action can minimize damage and help you reopen for bookings sooner:

• Inspect Your Property: Look for roof leaks, broken windows, or other damage. Document everything with photos for insurance claims.

• Make Temporary Repairs: Use tarps to cover leaks and clear debris to prevent further issues.

• Reassure Guests: Notify upcoming guests of your property’s condition and confirm if it’s safe to stay.

Why Acting Quickly Matters:

The faster you assess and repair damage, the sooner you can resume bookings. Delays can lead to lost income and frustrated guests.

4. Double-Check Your Insurance

Ensure your property is covered for hurricane-related damages:

• Confirm coverage for wind and flooding.

• Take pre-storm photos of your property to simplify claims.

• Keep your insurance agent’s contact information handy for post-storm assistance.

5. Work with Experts

Handling hurricane season alone can be overwhelming. A professional property management team can help you stay prepared and recover quickly.

At Tropical Stay Management, we:

• Manage regular property inspections and pre-storm maintenance.

• Provide guest communication plans and emergency resources.

• Oversee post-storm recovery, from hiring contractors to filing insurance claims.

We also partner with Pacific Builders PR for high-quality repairs and updates, so your property is always in great shape.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Confident

Hurricane season doesn’t have to mean stress and uncertainty. By following these steps and leaning on the right team, you can protect your property, keep guests safe, and get back to business faster.

Need Help? Let Tropical Stay Management take the guesswork out of hurricane preparedness.