The "My Florida Safe Home Program" is an initiative created by the state of Florida to help homeowners strengthen their homes against hurricanes and other severe weather events. The program offers free wind mitigation inspections to qualified homeowners and provides matching grants to assist with the cost of home improvements that enhance a property's ability to withstand wind damage. These improvements can include things like reinforcing roofs, upgrading windows and doors, and securing other structural elements.
Here are some key aspects of the My Florida Safe Home Program:
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Wind Mitigation Inspections: Qualified homeowners can receive a free inspection of their home to identify areas that may be vulnerable to wind damage. The inspection report provides recommendations for improvements that can make the home more resilient during hurricanes and other severe storms.
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Matching Grants: After receiving a wind mitigation inspection, homeowners may be eligible for a matching grant to help cover the cost of recommended improvements. Typically, the program will match the homeowner's contribution up to a certain amount, effectively reducing the financial burden of making these important upgrades.
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Eligibility: To qualify for the program, homeowners must meet certain criteria, such as owning and residing in the property, having a homestead exemption, and the home being located in a wind-borne debris region as defined by the Florida Building Code.
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Benefits: By participating in the My Florida Safe Home Program, homeowners can not only improve the safety and resilience of their homes but also potentially reduce their home insurance premiums. Wind mitigation improvements can lead to significant discounts on insurance costs because they reduce the risk of severe damage during a storm.
The program is part of Florida's broader efforts to mitigate the impacts of hurricanes and improve the safety of its residents, particularly in a state that is highly vulnerable to these natural disasters. To learn more about the My Florida Safe Home Program, please visit the Department of Financial Services website: https://mysafeflhome.com/