Florida homeowners affected by flooding from Hurricane Helene are turning to a new program called Elevate Florida for help. The state-run program offers to cover at least 75% of the cost of mitigation projects like lifting homes or reconstructing properties to protect against future storms. While the $400 million federal funding set aside for the program may not be enough to meet all the needs, residents are hopeful that Elevate Florida will help save them money on insurance, increase property values, and protect their homes.
Elevate Florida, described as a statewide residential mitigation program, aims to protect homes from flooding by offering financial assistance for structure elevation, reconstruction, wind damage hardening, or property acquisition and demolition. Residents are required to contribute up to 25% of the project’s total cost and must keep National Flood Insurance Program coverage for the life of the structure.
The program has received over 1,500 applications, with Pinellas County leading in the number of applicants. Contractors working under Elevate Florida are licensed and approved, with the state expecting to select contractors by mid-April. The timeline for completion of a project ranges from seven months to a year and a half, with potential for projects to be completed before the 2025 hurricane season.
Although some residents have expressed concerns about the pace of the program, many are eager to take advantage of Elevate Florida to protect their homes and communities against future flooding. Despite the uncertainties, homeowners like Jack Dougherty are hopeful that Elevate Florida will provide the support needed to make their homes resilient and safe.
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