Protect Your Roof With My Safe Florida Home

Grant Program Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the My Safe Florida Home Program?

The My Safe Florida Home Program is an initiative by the state of Florida designed to help homeowners enhance the structural integrity of their homes to better withstand hurricanes and severe storm events. The program aims to protect homes against hurricanes by reducing the vulnerability of residential properties, ultimately minimizing damage and protecting lives during hurricanes.

Key Features of the Grant Program:

• Home Inspection Services: Eligible homeowners of the My Safe FL Home program can receive free wind mitigation home inspections conducted by certified inspectors. These inspections assess the home's hurricane readiness and issue an inspection report to identify areas where improvements are needed.

• Grant Opportunities: The My Safe FL Home program provides grants to homeowners for retrofitting their homes. These grants can cover specific upgrades such as installing impact-resistant windows and doors, reinforcing roof-to-wall connections, upgrading roof coverings, and adding storm shutters.

• Eligibility Criteria to receive the My Safe Florida Home Grant:

• Homeowners must reside in a single-family, owner-occupied residence.

• Properties should be located within specific high-risk areas determined by the program guidelines.

• There may be income or asset limits to qualify for certain grant levels.

• Matching Funds: In some cases, homeowners may be required to provide matching funds to qualify for grants. This co-funding approach ensures that both the state and the homeowner contribute to the property's fortification.

• Educational Resources: In addition to financial assistance, the My Safe Florida Home Program offers homeowners educational resources, including best practices for home maintenance and preparedness tips for hurricane season.

• Community Impact: By promoting safer building practices and enhancing home resilience, the program helps reduce hurricanes' economic impact on communities and decreases the burden on emergency response services.

2. How do I know if I qualify for the My Safe Florida Home Grant?

Applying for the My Safe Florida Home Grant is a straightforward process. You can visit the official My Safe Florida Home website to check the eligibility criteria and apply. The website provides clear instructions and guidance to help you through the application process.

3. Can I choose Code Red Roofers® for my retrofit project?

Yes! Code Red Roofers® is a registered and approved My Safe Florida Home Program contractor. Once your funds have been awarded, you can choose Code Red Roofers in your portal. Code Red Roofers also offers competitive roof financing options to help you cover any additional roofing costs not covered by My Safe Florida Home grants.

4. What kind of improvements will be made to my home?

Under the My Safe Florida Home Program, various home improvements can be made to enhance your home's resilience against severe weather, particularly hurricanes. These upgrades will strengthen your home's structural integrity and protect it from wind and water damage. Here are some common types of improvements that may be covered:

Roof Reinforcement

• Roof-to-Wall Connections: Strengthening the connections between the roof and walls of your home can prevent the roof from being lifted off during high winds. This might involve adding metal connectors or straps.

• Secondary Water Barrier: Installing a secondary water barrier helps to prevent water intrusion if the roof covering is damaged. This involves applying a self-adhering membrane or other materials under the roof shingles.

• Roof Deck Attachment: Upgrading the attachment of the roof deck to the roof structure by adding nails or adhesive can significantly increase the roof's resistance to uplift forces.

• Roof Coverings: Replacing old or damaged roof coverings with impact-resistant materials like metal roofing or architectural shingles can provide better protection against flying debris and heavy rains.

Window and Door Protection

• Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors: Installing windows and doors designed to withstand high winds and debris impacts can prevent breakage and reduce pressure on the home's envelope.

• Storm Shutters: Adding storm shutters to windows and glass doors provides an additional layer of protection. These can be permanently installed or temporary, such as accordion shutters, roll-down shutters, or panel systems.

• Garage Doors: Reinforcing or replacing garage doors with wind-rated doors can prevent them from buckling under pressure, which can lead to significant structural damage.

Additional Measures:

• Gable End Bracing: For homes with gable roofs, adding bracing to the gable ends can help prevent collapse during strong winds. This involves installing additional framing or retrofit kits.

• Exterior Doors Reinforcement: Strengthening exterior doors, including those leading to patios and balconies, ensures they remain secure during storms. This might include upgrading door frames, hinges, and locks.

• Sealing and Caulking: Properly sealing and caulking around windows, doors, and other openings prevents water intrusion during heavy rains and storms.

• Foundation Anchoring: Enhancing the anchoring of the home's foundation can improve overall stability and reduce the risk of shifting or lifting during extreme weather events.

• Soffit Improvements: Strengthening soffits (the area under the eaves) helps prevent wind-driven rain from entering the attic and causing water damage.