Building a More Resilient Sunshine State, One Home at a Time 
(Is it all it’s made out to be?)

Florida’s beautiful coastlines and vibrant communities are undeniably appealing, but they come with the ever-present risk of natural disasters, particularly hurricanes. The devastation in a hurricane’s wake can be immense, leading to costly repairs, emotional distress, and a longing for greater security. This is where “Elevate Florida” steps in – a groundbreaking statewide residential mitigation program designed to help homeowners strengthen their properties against future storms and floods.

Led by the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), Elevate Florida aims to expedite the hazard mitigation process. It provides financial assistance and comprehensive support to homeowners seeking to protect their most valuable asset. This proactive approach shifts the focus from costly post-disaster recovery to intelligent pre-disaster preparedness.

How Does Elevate Florida Program Work?

Elevate Florida is primarily a cost-share program, meaning it leverages federal grant funding to cover a significant portion of mitigation project costs, with the homeowner contributing the remainder. The program is designed to cover at least 75% of the project cost, with the homeowner responsible for up to 25%. This substantial financial assistance makes crucial mitigation efforts far more accessible.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical process and eligible projects:

• Application: Homeowners apply through the Elevate Florida Portal, providing necessary documentation like property ownership, flood insurance information, and details of any past flood damage. While past damage isn’t always required, properties with a history of loss (especially severe repetitive loss or repetitive loss as defined by FEMA) are often prioritized.
• Eligibility & Review: Once submitted, applications undergo a thorough review to determine eligibility, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with environmental and historic preservation regulations. Pre-construction assessments and studies are conducted.
• Project Types: Elevate Florida supports a range of crucial mitigation projects, including:
  
  • Structure Elevation: Physically raising an existing home above designated flood levels using various methods. This is a primary focus for properties in flood-prone areas.
  • Mitigation Reconstruction: Rebuilding a damaged or destroyed home to be more resistant to future hazards, often at an elevated level. This is an alternative when a structure cannot be simply elevated due to its condition.
  • Wind Mitigation: Implementing measures to reduce wind damage, such as strengthening roofs, installing impact-resistant windows and doors, or improving attic ventilation.
  • Acquisition/Demolition: In some cases, the program may facilitate the voluntary sale and demolition of a home in high-risk flood areas, converting the land into community open space to reduce future flood risks.
• Construction & Closeout: If approved, the state assigns contractors to perform the work. Homeowners typically need to vacate the property during construction, and temporary housing assistance may be provided. Upon completion, a final inspection is conducted, and homeowners may be required to maintain National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) coverage for the life of the structure.

Pros of Utilizing Elevate Florida:

• Significant Cost Savings: This is arguably the biggest advantage. By covering at least 75% of project costs, Elevate Florida makes otherwise unaffordable mitigation projects attainable for many homeowners.
• Reduced Insurance Premiums: Elevating or strengthening your home significantly reduces its flood and wind risk, which can lead to substantial reductions in your flood and homeowner’s insurance premiums over time. This offers ongoing financial benefits.
• Increased Property Value: A more resilient home is a more valuable home. Mitigation efforts protect your investment and can increase your property’s market value and appeal, particularly in areas prone to natural disasters.
• Enhanced Safety and Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is better protected against the devastating impacts of hurricanes and floods provides invaluable peace of mind for you and your family.
• Comprehensive Support: The program offers end-to-end assistance, from the application process to connecting homeowners with qualified contractors and even providing temporary housing support during construction.
• Proactive Approach: Elevate Florida shifts the paradigm from reacting to disasters to proactively strengthening homes, preventing damage, and reducing the long-term emotional and financial toll of hurricanes.
• SBA Loan Compatibility: If you need assistance with your 25% cost-share, the SBA disaster loan program (as discussed in the previous article) may be a viable option to cover that portion.

Cons of Utilizing Elevate Florida:

• Homeowner Cost-Share: While significantly subsidized, the requirement for homeowners to contribute up to 25% of the project cost can still be a barrier for some, especially those with limited savings.
• Application Process Time: The application and approval process can take time (estimated from 2 to 6 months for approval, and 6 to 18 months from approval to project completion), potentially delaying vital mitigation work.
• Temporary Displacement: Homeowners are typically required to vacate their homes during the construction phase, which can be disruptive, even with temporary housing assistance.
• NFIP Coverage Requirement: Maintaining NFIP flood insurance for the life of the structure is a condition of participation. While this is often a good practice in flood zones, it represents an ongoing cost.
• Funding Limitations: While the program has significant funding (currently $400 million from federal grants), it is not limitless. Applications may be prioritized, and there’s always a possibility of funding becoming strained if demand is exceptionally high.
• Property Owner Eligibility: The program is specifically for individual homeowners of residential properties. Homes owned by corporate or commercial entities (like LLCs) generally do not qualify. Secondary residences may also be lower priority.
• Potential for Bureaucracy: As with any government program, there can be administrative hurdles, paperwork, and communication challenges that require patience and persistence from applicants.

Is Elevate Florida Right for You?

For Florida homeowners residing in flood-prone areas or those seeking to bolster their home’s resilience against hurricane-force winds, Elevate Florida presents an incredible opportunity. The significant financial assistance and comprehensive support can transform an overwhelming and costly endeavor into a manageable and secure investment.

While there are considerations like the homeowner cost-share and the time commitment, the long-term benefits of reduced risk, lower insurance costs, and increased property value often outweigh these challenges. If your home is vulnerable to natural disasters, exploring Elevate Florida is a crucial step towards building a more resilient future in the Sunshine State.