Rebuilding After the Storm

After a hurricane or other disaster, property owners understandably want their homes and other structures rebuilt or repaired as quickly as possible.

Before beginning any significant project, it is important to understand the local and state ordinances that apply to the area where your structure is located. The Hillsborough County Development Services department has the answers.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Tips to Repair Structures Post Disaster

1. Contact your local floodplain manager or building or permitting departments to determine the necessary steps to take before beginning a repair or replacement project. Every part of a building - from roofs, walls, and siding, to plumbing, septic systems and heating/air conditioning systems — may require a permit before you start to rebuild. A permit may also be needed for demolition.
2. Obtain building permits. Homes or businesses located within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) require building permits for repairs and replacements. Building permits are based on current local codes, floodplain management ordinances, and the Florida Building Code, which are enforced locally.
3. Contact your community’s building department to find information on locally approved and licensed contractors. For residents of unincorporated Hillsborough County, contact Hillsborough County Development Services for information on locally approved and licensed contractors. For awareness – if proper permits are not obtained, you may be subject to stop-work orders, fines, or other penalties.

Minor Repairs vs. Major Repairs, and Substantial Damages

1. Due to the impacts of recent hurricanes, some residential and commercial structures may be in need of minor repairs. Florida Statute 553.7922 allows communities to follow special processing procedures to expedite permitting for these repairs. Hillsborough County is one of these communities utilizing these special procedures. 
2. Structures that may require major repairs will need to be further evaluated before permits may be issued. View Hillsborough County Disaster Declaration Permitting Special Processing Procedures for guidance.
3. Residents whose homes were damaged and who reside in a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Special Flood Hazard Area, which includes flood zones A, AE, V, VE, AO, AH, AR, or A99, and are insured under the National Flood Insurance Program, should educate themselves about the program’s “50% Rule.” The rule states that any combination of repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement to a building or structure with a cost exceeding 50 percent of its market value is considered “substantial damage.” If repairing your home due to the damage and impacts sustained from recent storms meets the definition, the entire structure must be elevated to or above the base flood elevation or be made totally flood compliant, which can be costly.

Learn more using the links below:

1. Press Release: Hillsborough County to Notify Residents in the Floodplain of Substantial Damage Requirements 

2. News Article: Understanding the Federal Government’s ‘50% Rule’ When it Comes to Your Home or Business