Storm Protection & Generators — Florida homeowner answers

The storm protection & generators problems Florida homeowners actually search, answered honestly: what each symptom means, what the work typically costs, what Florida law requires, and how to avoid getting burned. When you're ready, your request goes to ONE verified pro — never sold, never flooded.

Licensing in Florida

This trade spans different license realities in Florida. A permanent standby generator and its transfer switch are licensed electrician work, and a gas connection needs a licensed gas or plumbing pro. Hurricane shutters and panels are often permitted specialty work tied to product approval and local wind-zone rules. Verify who holds the license for the part you are buying — a portable generator you plug in is different from a wired standby system.

Basis: FL Stat. 489 Part II (electrical, ECLB) for standby generators/transfer switches · shutters = product approval + local permit

Typical Florida costs (curated 2026 estimates — not bids)

Whole-house standby generator (installed): $8,000–$20,000

Generator repair / service: $200–$1,500

Automatic transfer switch: $500–$2,500

Hurricane shutters: $2,000–$8,000

Accordion hurricane shutters: $5,000–$12,000

By county

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