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CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — With hurricane season now in full swing, many homeowners in the Tampa Bay area are making preparations for what comes with it.
From stocking up on hurricane supplies to making reinforcements around the house, the list goes on. But some are deciding to go above expectations, taking their storm preparations to new heights.
Perched along the water’s edge of King’s Bay stands a modern marvel of present day engineering.
“It’s really remarkable that they figured out ways to get the homes out of the flood zone and elevate them this way,” said city of Crystal River Growth Management Director Carly Hanson, who is overseeing the latest home to be raised in Crystal River with the city’s Growth Management team.
“We do have this conversation with residents often, though, debating what’s the best option for them in future hurricane seasons to protect themselves,” said Hanson. “Sometimes it’s lifting the existing structure, like this example, and sometimes it’s building on top of their existing home, creating new livable space above.”
This particular home, Hanson says, is one of five within the city that have recently been raised. She says the owners made the decision after their houses were damaged during last year’s hurricanes.
Choosing to elevate a home comes with a few requirements.
“Making sure the ground is stable enough to support the elevation,” said Hanson. “And then it also looks at the structural stability of the home’s foundation to determine if it’s a good candidate for elevation. From there, there’s a building permit and engineered plans that make sure all the math works out.”
It can be an expensive decision for homeowners but one that comes with a few perks, Hanson says, like a decreased insurance price. There are also grants to be applied for that can help with cost, including Elevate Florida.
“The goal of that program is to expedite these home elevation grants that are made available through the State of Florida and through FEMA. We get those funding opportunities annually. There’s about $300 million allotted statewide for residential mitigation — that includes elevation, demolition and reconstruction.”
Aside from grants, there are a few other things Hanson says interested homeowners should keep in mind if they decide to raise their homes.
“Get with your local jurisdiction to outline what these policies look like in your jurisdiction,” she said. “And ultimately, a raised home is a safer home. With hurricane season coming up, it’s important to make these considerations.”
It’s a decision that could make all the difference when dealing with a hurricane.
The State of Florida’s application window for Elevate Florida is currently closed. Hanson says residents should reach out to their local government office to get on a list to be notified when that funding option becomes available.
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Calvin Lewis
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