State Investment Doubled
This year, Florida lawmakers doubled the state’s investment into the My Safe Florida Home program. The program aims to help homeowners afford home improvements to lower their property insurance rates. However, the application process is long and confusing.
Homeowner’s Struggles
Jack Kelly from South Tampa shared his struggles with the My Safe Florida Home program. His email highlighted the difficulties of understanding the program’s rules and using its website, especially for the elderly. ABC Action News responded by investigating his case to help others in similar situations.
Application Process Challenges
Jack Kelly’s experience with the program began when his insurance company required him to replace his 16-year-old roof to maintain coverage. An inspector from the program assessed his home but stated that it wouldn’t cover roof replacement or new hurricane windows. Instead, it would cover new hurricane shutters and an additional nail in his rafter brace.
Kelly described the process as long, frustrating, and confusing. He faced issues like obtaining necessary documents from city code inspectors and dealing with unresponsive website buttons. Kelly emphasized the need for computer and phone access to navigate the program.
Program’s Success and Difficulties
Despite the challenges, the state reports that the My Safe Florida Home program has successfully conducted over 999,000 home inspections and allocated more than $383 million in grants to fortify homes against storms. Kelly eventually completed the process, but it took a full year.
State’s Response and Resources
ABC Action News contacted the Chief Financial Officer’s office, responsible for the program, to address the difficulties. The office expressed willingness to assist those facing complications. However, they have yet to provide a clear plan to help individuals without computer or phone access. The My Safe Florida Home website offers resources and answers to frequently asked questions.
Legislative Actions and Future Improvements
The program was praised by Florida’s former Deputy Insurance Commissioner Lisa Miller as a significant legislative win. She also mentioned other legislative efforts to help stabilize insurance premiums, such as premium tax reductions and changes to homeowners association bylaws.
Miller acknowledged that while this session’s efforts are a step in the right direction, more actions might be necessary in the coming years to fully address rising insurance rates.
Conclusion
The My Safe Florida Home program has proven beneficial but remains challenging for many homeowners to navigate. State officials continue to seek improvements and provide support to those in need.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWVoCC78Nd0
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