Tips for Building Your Home in Florida

Florida is a great place to live, but its climate can be tough on your home. Intense UV rays, constant humidity, and heavy rainfall from storms and hurricanes make building in the Sunshine State a project that requires careful planning. Use these tips to ensure your new home is built to last.

Check Your Florida Flood Zone 

Fun fact: wherever you are in Florida, you’re never more than 60 miles from salt water. Flooding isn’t just a coastal threat – even inland properties can face flood risk.

Before you build, determine your property’s flood zone designation. If it’s below the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), you’ll need to raise the structure above the floodplain to comply with FEMA guidelines and local building codes.
Keep in mind that homes below the BFE can only undergo renovations valued at up to 50% of the home’s depreciated value, so it pays to plan ahead.

Use the Proper Materials 

Building in Florida requires durable, weather-resistant materials that can stand up to moisture, pests, and high winds.

Work with a licensed and insured contractor familiar with local codes and materials approved for Florida conditions. Consider using:

• Non-toxic salt-treated lumber that can withstand termites 
• Windows, doors, siding, and roofing with Florida product approval numbers. These have been tested with low-missile impact procedures and can handle up to Category 5 winds and flying debris. 

Consider Energy Efficiency 

New construction is the perfect time to build efficiency into your home. Incorporate:

• Quality insulation and energy-efficient HVAC systems.
• Reflective or solar-ready roofing materials.
• Energy-efficient appliances and lighting.

Protect Your New Construction Home With Robust Insurance 

Your new Florida home deserves the best protection. American Integrity Insurance is a new construction insurance specialist and can help determine which coverage is right for you. We provide options for new construction and other coverage to protect your investments. Contact an agent today to learn more. 

We offer traditional and high valued Homeowners Insurance, New Home Construction Coverage, Condo Insurance, Renters Insurance, and the special coverage required for vacant homes, manufactured homes, and policies designed for those who need less coverage or are renting out their home.

We also offer extra protection, including  Umbrella Insurance, Golf Cart Insurance, Watercraft Insurance, Cyber Coverage, and Identity Theft Protection, as well as equipment breakdown coverage, to help address a broad range of needs facing Florida homeowners today.