If you’re a Florida homeowner concerned about flood risks, Adkins Building & Construction is here to help you protect your investment. As coastal and flood-resilient construction experts, we understand the challenges homeowners face in safeguarding their properties. Now, with Elevate Florida, a state program covering up to 75% of home elevation costs, fortifying your home against flooding is more accessible than ever. This initiative offers substantial financial relief while enhancing the long-term resilience of your home—without requiring you to shoulder the full cost of mitigation.

Program Overview and Funding Coverage

Elevate Florida steps up to provide substantial financial relief for homeowners seeking to protect their properties from flood damage. You’ll receive between 75-100% coverage for eligible flood mitigation projects, making resilience enhancement more accessible than ever.

The program focuses on three essential areas: elevating existing structures, reconstruction for homes that can’t be raised, and property acquisition with demolition. As part of Florida’s commitment to community preparedness, you’ll only need to contribute up to 25% of the total project cost. This makes crucial protection measures affordable for qualifying homeowners.

If you’re a U.S. citizen over 18 who owns residential property in Florida, you can apply through the Florida Division of Emergency Management. The program accepts various property types, including single-family homes, duplexes, townhomes, and manufactured homes.

Eligibility Requirements for Florida Homeowners

Meeting the eligibility criteria for Elevate Florida requires several primary qualifications as a homeowner. As a U.S. citizen over 18, you must legally own and occupy your residential property, which can be a single-family home, duplex, townhome, or manufactured home.

Property ownership requirements stipulate that you maintain a clear title to your home and stay current on property taxes and mortgage payments. Your homeowner responsibilities include contributing up to 25% of the total project cost, though the program covers 75-100% of eligible expenses.

While prior flood damage isn’t mandatory for qualification, homes with a documented loss history may receive priority consideration. You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to meet the financial contribution and maintain appropriate insurance coverage throughout the elevation or reconstruction process.

Types of Projects Covered Under Elevate Florida

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, you’ll want to understand the specific improvements Enhance Florida supports. The program covers several flood mitigation strategies designed to protect your home and increase property value impacts over time.

• Structural elevation: Raising your existing home above flood levels while maintaining its original foundation
• Mitigation reconstruction: Complete rebuilding of homes that can’t be safely elevated, incorporating flood-resistant design
• Property acquisition and demolition: Converting high-risk properties into open spaces that benefit the community

Each project type addresses different needs and circumstances. The program’s flexible approach means you can choose the most appropriate solution for your situation, whether that’s raising your current structure or opting for a complete reconstruction to enhance your home’s resilience against future flooding.

Application Process and Required Documentation

Three paramount steps chart the commencement of your Elevate Florida application expedition. First, you’ll need to gather your required homeowner documentation, including proof of property ownership, flood insurance policy (if applicable), and income verification.

Next, you’ll complete the online application through FDEM’s portal, detailing your property’s history and proposed mitigation project. Watch for application submission deadlines as FDEM reviews applications in cycles.

You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to contribute up to 25% of project costs and provide recent photos of your property’s current condition. Once you’ve submitted your application, FDEM will assess your eligibility and project feasibility. They’ll notify you of your application status and outline the next steps for project implementation if approved.

Cost-Sharing Details and Financial Assistance

The cost-sharing structure of Elevate Florida provides substantial financial relief, with the program covering 75-100% of eligible mitigation expenses. Your homeowner contribution amounts won’t exceed 25% of the total project cost, making this program an accessible option for protecting your property.

You’ll receive coverage for structural elevation, mitigation reconstruction, or acquisition/demolition costs. Your insurance coverage benefits may increase while premium costs decrease after completing mitigation work. You can combine program funds with existing insurance settlements for thorough property improvements.

If you qualify, you’ll get significant financial support while maintaining ownership of your home. The program’s flexible funding structure guarantees you can proceed with necessary mitigation work without bearing the full financial burden. Your investment in property elevation or reconstruction will enhance your home’s resilience against future flooding and storms.

Priority Considerations and Selection Criteria

While all eligible homeowners can apply to Elevate Florida, certain factors will strengthen your application’s priority status. If your property has a prior disaster history, particularly with flooding or storm damage, you’ll likely receive higher consideration from FDEM selection factors.

You’ll want to demonstrate your property’s vulnerability to future disasters and your financial readiness to contribute the required cost share. FDEM evaluates applications based on your home’s location in high-risk areas, the cost-effectiveness of the proposed mitigation project, and your ability to meet the program’s financial requirements.

To enhance your application’s chances, document any previous flood claims, maintain current flood insurance if required, and be prepared to show how raising your home will reduce future disaster risks.

Timeline and Next Steps for Property Owners

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility and gathered your documentation, understanding the application timeline becomes your next priority. The process typically involves multiple steps, from initial submission to final approval, with property inspections occurring throughout the timeline.

• Submit your completed application to FDEM, including proof of ownership, income verification, and insurance documentation
• Schedule a preliminary property inspection to assess your home’s current condition and determine the scope of elevation work
• Await the review committee’s decision, which typically takes 45-60 days from submission

After approval, you’ll work with approved contractors to develop a detailed project plan. Remember that funding is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so timing is vital. Property inspections will continue throughout the construction phase to certify compliance with program requirements.

Building a Stronger, Safer Future with Adkins Building & Construction

Home elevation is a crucial step in protecting your property from future flood damage, and with Elevate Florida, the financial burden is significantly reduced. At Adkins Building & Construction, we specialize in high-quality construction solutions tailored to Florida’s unique environmental challenges.

Whether you need structural elevation, reconstruction, or flood-resistant home improvements, our team is committed to ensuring your home remains safe, secure, and built to last. Contact us today to explore how we can help you take full advantage of this program and create a home that stands strong against the elements.