8 Pro Tips on How to Protect Your Home or Condo During Hurricane Season in Mexico
If you’re living in or visiting coastal Mexico, you know the magic of waking up to ocean breezes, sunrises over the sea, and tropical vibes that make life here feel like a permanent vacation. But when hurricane season rolls around—from June through November—it’s a good time to pause, prepare, and protect your slice of paradise.
Whether you’re a snowbird with a condo in Puerto Vallarta, a family living full-time in Los Cabos, or a digital nomad soaking up the Yucatán sun, these 8 tips can help keep your home or condo better prepared when the weather gets serious.
1. Know Your Risk by Location
Hurricane activity isn’t the same across Mexico. Areas along both coasts—especially the Pacific side (think Baja California Sur and Nayarit) and the Gulf-Caribbean side (like Cancun and Playa del Carmen)—tend to be more affected. Check local weather trends and stay connected to CONAGUA or other regional alerts. If you’re new to the area, ask your neighbors—they often have stories from past seasons worth learning from.
2. Review Your Mexico Home Insurance Policy
It’s easy to forget the fine print—until you need it. Take a few minutes to review your Mexico home or condo insurance policy. Does it include windstorm or hurricane coverage? Are your property limits up to date with today’s construction or repair costs? These are good questions to go over with a trusted insurance provider. If you’re not sure where to start, West Coast Global Insurance Services offers guidance tailored for expats living in Mexico.
3. Secure Outdoor Items
We all love that beachfront patio setup, but even lightweight furniture can turn into dangerous projectiles in high winds. When a storm is coming, bring in umbrellas, chairs, planters, and anything else that isn’t bolted down. If you’re not in town during hurricane season, arrange with a neighbor or property manager to handle this for you.
4. Seal It Tight: Doors & Windows
Storm shutters or hurricane-rated windows are ideal, but if you don’t have those, even plywood coverings can help. Check for gaps or old caulking around windows and sliding doors—humid coastal air wears things down faster than you’d think. A quick weekend maintenance check now can save you a headache later.
5. Back Up Important Documents
Keep copies of your passports, property title, insurance documents, and other key info stored in a waterproof pouch or safe. It’s also smart to have digital copies backed up in cloud storage. If there’s ever a need to file a claim, having easy access to documents can speed things up.
6. Prep a Local Emergency Kit
Even a basic kit can make a big difference. Think bottled water, flashlights, batteries, candles, canned food, a radio, and essential medications. Don’t forget extra chargers or battery packs for your phone—and maybe a few snacks you actually enjoy (you’re still in Mexico, after all).
7. Have a Communication Plan
Power and internet can go out during a storm. Make sure family or friends back home know how to reach you. Share local emergency contact numbers and have a designated check-in buddy if you live alone. WhatsApp tends to be reliable, even during patchy service.
8. Lean Into the Local Community
One of the beautiful parts of life in Mexico is how neighbors often step up when it counts. Don’t hesitate to connect with your local expat or community group. Facebook pages, WhatsApp groups, and neighborhood chats often have real-time info and support before, during, and after storms.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your home in Mexico during hurricane season isn’t just about insurance or storm shutters—it’s about being aware, staying connected, and planning ahead. When you live in paradise, a little preparation goes a long way.
If you’re looking to review your current Mexico property insurance or explore your options, our team at West Coast Global Insurance Services is happy to help. We’ve been serving expats since 2004 with personalized support and simple, straightforward solutions.
Stay safe—and don’t forget to enjoy the calm between the storms.