Lessons learned: Insurance, infrastructure, and grit
Even with exceptional preparation, recovery revealed important lessons. Some assets— like pool
equipment, maintenance machinery, and content losses— fell into insurance gray areas or required specialized“ inland marine” policies. We also discovered that power pedestals at our waterfront sites, submerged during the surge, represented one of the largest uninsured expenses. Still, because of our financial foresight, we covered these costs without interruption or external borrowing. Within one year to the
day, Tropic Isles Co-Op was fully restored— stronger, smarter, and more resilient than before.
A model for other communities
The story of Tropic Isles is one of leadership through preparation. Our success didn’ t happen overnight— it was the result of consistent planning, sound financial management, and a deep sense of community responsibility.
Today, our residents are returning to beautifully restored homes, improved facilities, and a renewed sense of pride in what we achieved together.
For other associations looking to strengthen their hurricane readiness, our message is simple: start now. Build your reserves, review your insurance, train your board, and create a detailed operational plan.
If you would like to see more about our recovery, here is a link to a featured segment on Fox 13 Tampa Bay news: https:// share. google / EJXpAAaEV- NaK6hbyF.
Editor’ s Note: CAI does not promote any specific management style or company but includes these articles for information on the variety of management options available to communities in our area.
“ We’ re painting the town red, one association and home at a time!”
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32 community • June 2026 WWW. CAIWESTFlORIDA. ORg