If you live in Florida, storm prep is part of life. Your collection deserves a spot on the list. The good news: most of the work happens once, in calm weather, and takes an afternoon.

First, know what flood insurance typically won't cover

The federal flood program's coverage summary says "currency, precious metals, and valuable papers" are not insured under its policies, and "certain valuable items such as original artwork and furs" are capped at $2,500. Personal property is valued at actual cash value (NFIP Summary of Coverage; FEMA NFIP manual appendices). Some specialty collectibles insurers also limit flood coverage in certain flood zones (Collectibles Insurance Services). Ask your agent what applies to you.

Before the season (do this in calm weather)

[ ] Finish your inventory with photos of every item, front and back plus the label. This is what a claim, and your family, will depend on.
[ ] Keep a copy off-site. Your Collector Portal record, a printed Collection Report with a trusted person, or both. Don't keep the only list next to the collection.
[ ] Read your homeowners and flood policies for special limits and exclusions. See The $200 surprise.
[ ] Book a call with your agent using our 10 questions.
[ ] Gather water-safe packaging. The FDIC suggests "water-safe, zippered plastic bags" for valuables (FDIC). Sealed plastic storage boxes are another option.
[ ] Know where the collection is stored relative to the lowest floor and any area that has flooded before.
[ ] If you use a bank box, read Your bank box: 5 myths; a bank box isn't automatically insured.

When a storm is in the forecast

[ ] Follow official local guidance first. People before property, always.
[ ] Bag or box items in water-safe packaging, and keep them off the floor where you reasonably can.
[ ] Confirm your off-site inventory copy is current.
[ ] If you'll move items, keep the move quiet and simple. See Collect quietly.

After the storm

[ ] Photograph any damage before moving or drying anything.
[ ] Don't try to clean wet or corroded coins. Conservation guidance says dips and metal cleaners "should not be used," and removing corrosion "should be left to a conservator" (Canadian Conservation Institute). See Don't clean it.
[ ] Call your agent before throwing anything away.
[ ] Update your portal record with what changed.

Try it in your portal

Use the photo guide to finish photos for every item, then export your Collection Report and store the copy somewhere outside your home.

Talk to your own insurance agent

Only your agent can tell you what your homeowners, flood or collectibles policy covers. Choice Custom Collections does not sell insurance.

Educational only. This is not insurance, tax, legal or investment advice. Coverage rules vary by policy and change over time. Always follow official emergency guidance.

Sources

Course 107

107: Care, Storage & Records
Don't Clean It
Collect Quietly: Privacy Habits That Protect Your Collection
The $200 Surprise: Read Your Homeowners Special Limits
Your Bank Box: 5 Myths
Hurricane-Season Checklist for Florida Collectors
10 Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent About Your Collection

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Last reviewed 2026-10-28 · Draft

Hurricane-Season Checklist for Florida Collectors