Weathering the Storm: United Group’s Proactive Approach to Hurricane Preparedness

United Group has been a steady presence in the Florida community for more than four decades. And while we love the Sunshine State for its warm weather and blue skies, we also know that with sunshine comes rain.

Over the last 40 years, our downstate communities have weathered many storms including the most recent hurricanes Helene and Milton. Thanks to our experience with these dreadful storms, our management and development teams have gained invaluable expertise in hurricane preparedness ensuring that our residents are protected.  

Preparedness in Development

All United Group properties are designed to meet Florida's hurricane building codes. Essential safety measures include:

• Elevated Living Spaces: Our apartment units are built above parking areas and are about 12 feet off the ground. This design significantly reduces the risk of flooding and storm surges impacting residential units.
• Reinforced Concrete Structures: All buildings are constructed with reinforced concrete walls, providing exceptional strength and stability against the forces of high winds.
• Impact-Resistant Windows and Patio Doors: Hurricane-rated windows and patio doors offer protection from flying debris without requiring shutters, helping residents stay protected inside their homes.

These features, embedded in our building practices, played a crucial role in keeping our communities secure during Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Our Florida properties experienced little to no damage, with many locations even maintaining power throughout the storms.

On-the-Ground Support Before, During, and After the Storms

Nonetheless, recognizing the potential severity of these hurricanes, United Plus Property Management (UPPM) took proactive steps to support our communities.

Many of our Property Managers slept on site ahead of and during the storms. Our corporate team dispatched several SUVs filled with essential items including water, non-perishables, toiletries, snacks, and other necessities to our Florida properties. And, employees worked tirelessly to secure outdoor furniture, calm residents' nerves, and prepare for scenarios such as power outages and wind damage.

“UPPM is unbelievably proud of our teams in Florida who withstood the challenges that both Hurricane Helene and Milton brought," Michael DiGiacomo, Chief Operating Officer at United Group said. "Our team was instantly available with SUVs filled with supplies to distribute across the state, and we were available on the properties leading up to, during, and following the storms. As the state continues to recover, UPPM’s team will continue to support our communities and team members affected."

A Helping Hand for Those in Need

While our communities were fortunate enough to withstand the storms, many homes in Florida are facing significant damage, flooding, and loss of essential services. In response, United Group has begun offering short-term leases, one-month free rent promotions, and a welcoming space for those displaced by the storms.

A note from a resident who moved into The Alloro at University Groves, a 55+ Active Adult Community in Sarasota, FL, this September:

"We first came to Alloro to look for an independent living situation for my mother-in-law, Pat, in June of 2024. Then came Hurricane Helene. On Thursday night, September 26, 2024, our house was flooded by Hurricane Helene. There was over a foot of seawater in our house and it left behind a layer of very slick sludge on our floors. I started the process of cleaning up and figuring out what to do on Friday. One of the options that I came up with was to get a place for Pat at The Alloro. On Saturday I was ready to make the commitment. We were able to begin moving in on Sunday afternoon, September 29th."

By preparing our communities for hurricane resilience and deploying real-time support, we helped mitigate the impact of the recent storms. As the state recovers, our company will continue to support our residents and the broader Florida community. We are currently offering short-term leases, complimentary rent, and rent incentives at some of our communities. If you or someone you know needs housing, do not hesitate to reach out.

Staff members at Parasol Melbourne

Extra supplies at Arcadia Gardens

Parasol Melbourne

Taking in supplies for the residents of The Hamilton at Lakeside

Extra supplies delivered to Parasol Melbourne