Florida homeowners seeking to fortify their residences against storms and potentially lower insurance premiums will soon have another opportunity. The popular My Safe Florida Home program is set to relaunch on July 1st, backed by a substantial $280 million in funding. This initiative offers eligible residents grants of up to $10,000 for home hardening improvements, a crucial step in a state frequently impacted by severe weather.
My Safe Florida Home Relaunches with Significant Funding Boost
The My Safe Florida Home program, which provides grants to help Floridians harden their homes against storms, is scheduled to relaunch on July 1st. This iteration of the program boasts a significant funding increase, with $280 million allocated, a higher amount than in previous years. This substantial budget aims to address the high demand that has historically led to quick depletion of funds.
- Key Takeaways:
- Program relaunches July 1st.
- $280 million in funding, with $257 million specifically for grants.
- Grants up to $10,000 available for eligible homeowners.
- Applications will be processed online via the My Safe Florida Home website.
Eligibility and Prioritization
Similar to past years, the My Safe Florida Home program is expected to prioritize applicants based on age and income. State Senator Lori Berman, D-Boynton Beach, noted a change in criteria from the previous year, emphasizing a needs-based approach. The first category for prioritization will be needs-based elderly individuals, with a possibility that the entire $280 million could be allocated to this group due to overwhelming demand. Applicants will also need to provide proof of their insured home value.
Recommended Home Improvements
Insurance experts highlight the importance of undertaking the correct home improvements to maximize benefits, including potential insurance premium reductions. Robert Norberg, an insurance agent in Lantana, advises homeowners to ensure all work is compliant with program standards. Eligible improvements typically include:
- New roof installations
- Installation of hurricane straps or tie-downs
- Reinforcement of nailings
- Installation of shutters
Norberg stresses that all components of a home must be in compliance to receive credit, warning that even a single non-compliant door could jeopardize eligibility for benefits.
Program Oversight and Future Outlook
The relaunch of the My Safe Florida Home program comes at a time when the state currently lacks a chief financial officer, the official responsible for overseeing the program. Former CFO Jimmy Patronis departed in March. Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to appoint a new CFO after the legislative session concludes, which Senator Berman noted occurred with the budget deal a week prior. Despite this, the program is set to move forward, contingent on the Governor signing the new state budget before the July 1st deadline.