Hurricanes and Florida's New Building CodesGiven the recent wrath of Hurricane Irma – along with possible follow-up visits from her friends Jose and Maria – many Floridians are concerned about the updated building codes in the state, which were put into place recently, and that could essentially have a detrimental effect on new homes to be built going forward.

According to WLRN – Miami / South Florida1, during the 2017 session, Florida lawmakers approved a sweeping bill that reformed the construction industry – which could change the way in which the state’s building codes are updated. Here, before the new law went into effect, the state abided by the International Code. Now, however, not using the international codes as a baseline could end up weakening Florida’s building regulations, and in turn, thousands of homes across the Sunshine State.

One of the key reasons for “turning back” the building codes in Florida has to do with the cost of construction, which has continued to rise – due in part to the codes that were previously implemented. Yet, many people – both consumers and builders alike – feel that the cost “savings” now can’t nearly make up for a home’s damage, or even total destruction, if or when a natural disaster like a hurricane occurs.

So, how can you better ensure that your home is built with the quality materials that can help the structure to better endure an event like a hurricane or other similar occurrence? One way is to choose a custom built home and to work with an experienced, quality builder in the process.

While not all builders will take the extra steps necessary to make sure that a structure is solid, and that it can withstand more than just minimal force, others will. If you’re considering building a custom home in Orlando or the Central Florida area and you’d like more information about how to make sure your residence is on a solid foundation, give us a call today.

 

1. How Will Florida’s New Building Codes Weather Hurricane Season? WLRN. By Kate Payne. September 4, 2017.