Hurricane Safety
Hurricane Milton - Electrical Safety

At Home Service Heroes, we understand the challenges our community faces after the recent impacts of Hurricane Milton, especially concerning the safety of your home’s electrical system. If your property experienced flooding, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and ensure that your electrical system is inspected before restoring power. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help navigate this process and keep your family safe.

 

Keep Your Power Off Until Inspected

First and foremost, do not turn your power back on if your home has been flooded. Water can cause hidden damage on electrical systems, which may pose serious risks if not addressed properly.

Steps to Follow:

  1. Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor: Contact a licensed electrical contractor to conduct a  thorough inspection of your electrical system. This is essential to identify any damage that may not be visible to the untrained eye.
  2. Complete the Service Release Agreement: If the electrician finds no significant damage or if repairs are minor and don’t require a permit, residents using Tampa Electric must have the electrician complete the Tampa Electric Company Service Release Agreement Residential/Commercial (Form E-268). Once this form is filled out, submit it to TECO’s One Source team at [email protected].
  3. Address Permits for Damaged Systems: Should the inspection reveal damage requiring a permit, your electrician will need to make the necessary repairs and call for required inspection from Hillsborough County Building Officials before power can be restored.
  4. Keep Power Off: Remember, keep your power turned off until the inspection confirms your system is safe. Your safety is our priority!

 

Choosing the Right Contractor

When selecting an electrician, trust is essential. At Home Service Heroes, we are proud to be a licensed and insured electrical service provider in Hillsborough County and surrounding areas. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your safety and peace of mind. We recommend choosing professionals who are qualified and reliable, and we encourage you to contact us for your electrical needs. With our commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction, you can rest assured that your home is in good hands.

 

Emergency Permitting Assistance

For those who require minor repairs, Hillsborough County Development Services is currently offering emergency permitting for residential and commercial properties. This program is designed to expedite the repair process and help our community recover as swiftly as possible. For more details, visit the Hillsborough County Disaster Declaration Permitting Special Processing Procedures page.

 

Stay Connected and Informed

As recovery efforts continue, it’s vital to stay informed. We encourage all residents to register for HCFL Alert, the official public notification system for emergency updates. By signing up, you can receive alerts via email, phone, or text by visiting HCFL.gov/StaySafe.

If you don’t have digital access, you can also reach out to the storm information helpline at (833) HCSTORM or (833) 427-8676

At Home Service Heroes, we’re here to support our community during this challenging time. By following these safety steps and staying informed, you can ensure the well-being of your home and loved ones. If you need assistance with electrical inspections or repairs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

 

You can find more information at HCFL.gov.

 

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Jon Polizzi
Jon Polizzi

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