JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – For many Floridians, buying a home is one of the biggest investments of their lives.
However, thousands of homeowners have been shocked to discover that their new property had flooded before they moved in.
Up until now, sellers were not required to disclose past flood damage. That’s all set to change with the introduction of a new law, House Bill 1049, which takes effect on Oct. 1.
MORE: Over 30 new Florida laws are set to take effect on Oct. 1. Here’s a look at each one
In the historic district of San Marco, flooded streets and homes after heavy rains have become an all too familiar sight. While some long-time residents are aware of the area’s flooding issues, many first-time homebuyers, like Mike Gorman’s son, were completely unaware.
“We picked out three or four properties in San Marco, but flooding wasn’t something we even thought to ask about,” Gorman admits. “Now, of course, it would be one of the first questions we’d ask.”
Thanks to House Bill 1049, soon homebuyers like the Gorman family won’t have to wonder about past flood damage. Sellers will now be required to disclose any flood-related insurance claims or federal aid tied to the property, and the law makes clear that standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage.
Local residents are also supportive of the change.
“I would definitely want to know if a property had previous flood damage,” says Margo Maribou, a local resident. “Even living in an apartment, I’ve seen how much trouble water damage can cause, so I can’t imagine the cost of it in a house.”
Similarly, resident Krista Adams likened the law to buying a car.
“You want to know its history before making such a big purchase,” Adams said.
But how could a homebuyer be unaware of previous flood damage?
According to insurance expert Matt Carlucci Jr., it’s not uncommon for sellers to be in the dark.
“If a homeowner has only owned the house for a few years, and a flood occurred before they moved in, they might not know about it,” explains Carlucci. “But under the new law, buyers have an extra layer of protection.”
Carlucci also emphasized the financial impact even minor flood damage can have.
“Just an inch of water can displace a family for months,” he warns. “Flooding not only affects one house but often entire neighborhoods, leaving contractors overwhelmed and delays in repairs.”
This new legislation provides peace of mind for homebuyers across Florida, including those living inland where flooding may not be as obvious. Starting Oct. 1, prospective buyers will have access to crucial information about a property’s flood history, ensuring they make informed decisions about one of their biggest investments.