New Florida Law Requires Mandatory Flood Disclosure, Helping Homebuyers Understand Their Risks

(TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – May 30, 2024) - Yesterday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed bill (HB 1049) into law, requiring sellers to disclosure significant details about their property’s flood risks during the homebuying process. This includes providing buyers with filed insurance claims related to flood damage and disclosing whether federal assistance was given due to flooding. Though it does not require the seller to disclose information of a home’s past flood damage, this is a first step in ensuring greater transparency when buying what is often the largest purchase in an individual’s life. 

The new legislation will take effect on October 1, 2024. This comes at a time when storms are becoming more frequent and intense, with at least one third of state properties predicted to face a severe risk of flooding in the next 30 years. 

“Thanks to passage of this important legislation, Florida has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering informed decision making by enabling homebuyers to access critical information about their flood risks. This transparency will help Florida homebuyers make choices that can better protect themselves, their families and their property. 

“On behalf of Environmental Defense Fund, I thank lawmakers for taking this important step forward and encouraging more resilient development practices. We look forward to continuing collaboration with government officials and stakeholders to further build resilience for our state.” 

-Rachel Rhode, Manager, Climate Resilient Coasts and Watersheds - Florida, Environmental Defense Fund