Florida Self-Storage Operators Prepare for Hurricane Milton

October 9, 2024

4 Min Read
Florida Self-Storage Operators Prepare for Hurricane Milton

Self-storage operators in several parts of Florida are anxiously preparing for Hurricane Milton, currently a Category 4 storm, which is predicted to make landfall tonight along a large portion of the state’s Gulf Coast. Some of these operators are still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage to the region less than two weeks ago. 

“Many areas are still dealing with the impact from the prior storm, and the forecasts for what they’re expecting from Milton are catastrophic and heartbreaking,” said Leslie Fuqua, executive director of the Florida Self Storage Association (FSSA). 

Facility closures began along the coast on Tuesday, with others further inland scheduled to follow suit. Plans are to reopen sometime on Thursday after the storm passes, but that decision will be dictated by the amount of damage properties incur and whether there’s significant flooding. 

Forecasters identified Milton’s path toward Florida more than a week ago, giving residents and businesses time to prepare and execute their emergency plans in hopes of minimizing the storm’s impact. 

“We have a hurricane-season prep list that the company goes through a month prior to hurricane season, where we review the fundamental things that need to be done so when the time comes, we’re ready to go,” said Scott McLaughlin, executive vice president of property management for Sentry Self-Storage, which operates 13 facilities in Florida. 

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“Once this storm was named, we identified the locations that were going to be in its path, so we could begin communication with our employees and tenants early and often. I can’t overstate how crucial it is to maintain regular communication throughout this process.” For a self-storage facility, preparation typically involves:

  • Closing for business

  • Powering down gates and computers

  • Ensuring that all vital equipment is turned off, unplugged and up off the ground

  • Confirming that the generator is fueled and operational

  • Stocking the first-aid kit

  • Gathering paper copies of tenant rental agreements

  • Updating the call center and website with information regarding facility closures

  • Clearing the property of any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds, such as outdoor furniture and signage

  • Establishing a communication plan to keep employees and tenants informed

“We also have our managers take photos of their property in the event of a catastrophic loss, so we have evidence to help with insurance claims should we need to file one,” McLaughlin said.

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Much of the central part of the Gulf Coast will be impacted by Milton, which as of earlier today was packing maximum sustained winds reaching 145 miles per hour. The eye of the storm is on a path to make landfall somewhere between Sarasota and Tampa, Florida.

Forecasters are predicting a storm surge ranging from 10 to 15 feet for the coast and calling for up to 18 inches of rain across parts of the state. Extensive flooding is expected, putting residents and businesses at risk.

“We’re concerned about the flooding, especially in lower lying areas, and expect to lose power, Wi-Fi and cell service,” said Joel Patterson, vice president of operations for Personal Mini Storage, which operates 43 facilities throughout Florida. “We anticipate most of our locations to feel some impact from the storm.”

U-Haul is offering Floridians 30 days of free storage at any of its 172 properties in the state. Other self-storage companies are still providing relief to residents and businesses that were negatively impacted by Hurricane Helene.

“Floridians have to remain vigilant with another powerful hurricane barreling our way, and it’s a stressful time for families looking to stay out of harm’s way,” said Mario Martinez, U-Haul area district vice president for Florida’s southern region. “Finding safety away from the storm and protecting your family comes first. But if we can help by securing a family’s valued possessions in a U-Haul facility during these storms at no cost for one month, we are happy to provide that service to our neighbors.”

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The FSSA works to ensure the stability and growth of the Florida self-storage industry. In addition to an annual conference and tradeshow, it provides a forum through which members can increase knowledge, exchange information, and promote an established, unified voice, according to officials.

Based in Orlando, Personal Mini is a sales and marketing company that also provides third-party management services for the self-storage industry.

Founded in 1997, Sentry provides third-party property-management services to 23 self-storage facilities in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Texas.

Established in 1945, Phoenix-based U-Haul owns and manages more than 82 million square feet of storage space nationwide.

Sources:
Miami-Dade County, 2024 Hurricane Guide
U-Haul, Hurricane Milton: U-Haul Disaster Relief Available at 172 Centers Across Florida
USA Today, 'Time is running out': Florida braces for monster Hurricane Milton

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