City of Gulfport – Courtesy Notification Letters
Out of the 525 active flood damage prevention cases in the City of Gulfport, the City on Friday, May 30, subsequently issued 98 courtesy notification letters to property owners whose properties were estimated to have sustained damage below the 50% threshold and who have not yet made contact with the City. Additionally, 29 certified notification letters were sent to property owners whose properties were estimated to have damage exceeding the 50% threshold and who also have not responded to the City.
Compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requires property owners of substantially damaged structures—defined as those with damage equal to or exceeding 50% of the structure’s pre-damage market value—to bring their properties into compliance with current floodplain management regulations. This may include elevating the structure, relocating it, demolishing it, or implementing other approved mitigation measures. Property owners with non-substantially damaged structures may restore their properties to pre-storm condition; however, they must obtain the necessary permits and ensure all repairs comply with applicable building codes and floodplain regulations.
Rebuilding After Storm Damage
City of Gulfport Documents/Resources
Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Review Application Packet
This document is a comprehensive “Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Review Application Packet” issued by the City of Gulfport for property owners and contractors. It outlines the necessary steps, requirements, and documentation for applying for permits related to repairs, improvements, or reconstructions in flood zones. The packet ensures compliance with FEMA regulations, particularly the 50% rule, to maintain the City’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. It includes checklists, cost breakdown forms, detailed instructions for determining property value, and guidance for appeals or reassessment of substantial damage determinations. The document emphasizes the importance of proper permitting to avoid penalties and ensure project compliance with local and federal standards.
Florida Building Code Requirements for Equipment Damaged by Flood or in a Flood Zone - City Member
If you’re planning to repair or renovate a property in a flood-prone area, this application helps ensure compliance with FEMA’s 50% Rule. Required for all projects to repair the structure to pre-storm condition. This application guides property owners through necessary documentation and flood-zone construction standards to protect against future flood risks.
Flood Damage Permitting Process
The “Flood Damage Permitting Process” document outlines procedures mandated by FEMA for repairing flood-damaged properties in Gulfport, Florida, following Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. These hurricanes caused varying degrees of wind and flood damage, necessitating structured permit processes to ensure compliance with floodplain regulations.
Floodplain Management Ordinance - City of Gulfport
The City of Gulfport’s floodplain management ordinance outlines construction and land-use regulations in flood-prone areas to reduce flood risks and protect property. The ordinance also ensures compliance with FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program, helping residents access federally-backed flood insurance.
Understanding the FEMA 50% Rule
A Guide for Gulfport Property Owners In Flood Zones. Learn how the FEMA 50% Rule impacts your property repair plans in designated flood zones and what steps you need to take to comply with regulations.
FEMA Affidavit - City of Gulfport
This affidavit helps ensure compliance with FEMA’s reconstruction regulations. Required for permit applications for property owners in flood zones, the City of Gulfport FEMA Affidavit confirms your awareness that repairs meeting or exceeding 50% of the property’s pre-damage value must comply with current flood-zone standards, including possible elevation adjustments.
City of Gulfport Owner Affidavit
Property owners in Gulfport, Florida, can act as their own contractors under certain conditions. This affidavit explains their legal responsibilities, supervision requirements, and potential risks. Non-compliance with licensing laws can lead to severe financial and legal consequences. Make sure you fully understand your obligations if you choose this option! For more details, check with the Community Development Department.
Private Appraisals for FEMA 50% Rule
The City of Gulfport requires specific documentation for private appraisals under the FEMA 50% Rule. Actual Cash Value is determined by the Property Appraiser or a private appraiser. Please ensure that your appraisal includes detailed market value assessments, structure-specific evaluations, photos, and depreciation calculations. For a full list of requirements, refer to the City of Gulfport’s guidelines below.
Temporary Shelter Notice - City of Gulfport
For residents displaced where a permanent residential structure was damaged and determined to be uninhabitable, the City of Gulfport Community Development Department’s Temporary Shelter Notice allows temporary structures like RVs or trailers on damaged property for up to 36 months. Visit the Gulfport Community Development Department for more compliance information.
Substantial Damage Estimate (SDE Letters)
The City has mailed substantial damage estimate letters to residents whose homes have experienced storm damage. Residents can lookup their property address to see if a determination has been made and download their substantial damage letter. Several properties are still awaiting a determination.
The flowchart below shows the options for properties designated Substantially Damaged or not.
NFIP Technical Bulletin 3 (FEMA)
Provides guidance on the NFIP floodplain management requirements for the design and certification of dry floodproofing. This guidance applies to new and substantially improved non-residential buildings and mixed-use buildings in Special Flood Hazard Areas identified as Zone A, AE, A1-30, AH and AO on Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
Florida State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates
The Florida State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates provide detailed information on employment wage rates across various occupations in Florida. This data is particularly useful for estimating labor costs, as it allows you to determine average wages for specific trades and professions.
Florida State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates - May 2023
Occupation code Occupation title Mean hourly wage 47‐0000 Construction and Extraction
Occupations$24.65 47‐1011 First‐Line Supervisors of
Construction Trades and Extraction Workers$34.55 47‐2011 Boilermakers $23.64 47‐2021 Brickmasons and
Blockmasons$22.73 47‐2022 Stonemasons $23.29 47‐2031 Carpenters $23.35 47‐2041 Carpet Installers $22.08 47‐2042 Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles $23.80 47‐2043 Floor Sanders and Finishers $20.33 47‐2044 Tile and Stone Setters $23.54 47‐2051 Cement Masons and
Concrete Finishers$23.01 47‐2053 Terrazzo Workers and
Finishers$26.43 47‐2061 Construction Laborers $19.56 47‐2071 Paving, Surfacing, and
Tamping Equipment Operators$21.30 47‐2072 Pile Driver Operators $23.79 47‐2073 Operating Engineers and
Other Construction Equipment Operators$27.68 47‐2081 Drywall and Ceiling Tile
Installers$20.77 47‐2111 Electricians $25.18 47‐2121 Glaziers $22.26 47‐2131 Insulation Workers, Floor,
Ceiling, and Wall$21.55 47‐2132 Insulation Workers,
Mechanical$22.32 47‐2141 Painters, Construction and
Maintenance$20.70 47‐2142 Paperhangers $19.83 47‐2151 Pipelayers $21.19 47‐2152 Plumbers, Pipefitters, and
Steamfitters$24.92 47‐2161 Plasterers and Stucco
Masons$23.01 47‐2171 Reinforcing Iron and Rebar
Workers$23.26 47‐2181 Roofers $22.61 47‐2211 Sheet Metal Workers $22.99 47‐2221 Structural Iron and Steel
Workers$24.71 47‐2231 Solar Photovoltaic Installers $23.38 47‐3011 Helpers‐‐Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters $18.99 47‐3012 Helpers‐‐Carpenters $19.02 47‐3013 Helpers‐‐Electricians $17.85 47‐3014 Helpers‐‐Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons $15.65 47‐3015 Helpers‐‐Pipelayers,
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters$18.88 47‐3016 Helpers‐‐Roofers $18.86 47‐3019 Helpers, Construction
Trades, All Other$18.51 47‐4011 Construction and Building
Inspectors$31.80 47‐4021 Elevator and Escalator
Installers and Repairers$41.86 47‐4031 Fence Erectors $23.26 47‐4041 Hazardous Materials
Removal Workers$20.93 47‐4051 Highway Maintenance
Workers$18.93 47‐4061 Rail‐Track Laying and
Maintenance Equipment Operators$28.62 47‐4071 Septic Tank Servicers and
Sewer Pipe Cleaners$23.78 47‐4090 Miscellaneous Construction and Related Workers $22.36 47‐5012 Rotary Drill Operators, Oil
and Gas$28.32 47‐5013 Service Unit Operators, Oil
and Gas$25.88 47‐5022 Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining $24.12 47‐5023 Earth Drillers, Except Oil and
Gas$26.32 47‐5032 Explosives Workers,
Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters$36.05 47‐5041 Continuous Mining Machine
Operators$21.98 47‐5044 Loading and Moving
Machine Operators, Underground Mining$20.29 47‐5071 Roustabouts, Oil and Gas $24.55 47‐5081 Helpers‐‐Extraction Workers $18.15
Homewyse - Online Cost Estimation Resource
Homewyse is a comprehensive online resource designed to provide cost estimation for a wide range of home improvement, repair, and maintenance projects. The platform caters to homeowners, contractors, and project planners, offering detailed cost breakdowns based on location, materials, and labor inputs.
Key Features:
- Project Cost Estimators:
- Tools to estimate costs for various projects such as flooring, roofing, painting, plumbing, and landscaping.
- Customizable options to account for different materials, project scope, and quality levels.
- Regional Adjustments:
- Cost estimates are tailored to specific geographic areas, reflecting local labor rates and material prices.
- Detailed Breakdown:
- Estimates include line-by-line costs for labor, materials, and any additional expenses.
- Users can adjust parameters to refine the estimate for accuracy.
- Guides and Insights:
- Offers guidelines for project planning, budgeting, and comparisons between DIY and professional services.
- Provides insights on potential cost-saving measures and expected return on investment (ROI) for specific improvements.
- Professional Tool Integration:
- Contractors can leverage Homewyse for bid preparation, ensuring estimates align with market standards.
Homewyse is an invaluable tool for anyone planning home-related projects, delivering accurate, region-specific cost insights to help manage budgets and expectations effectively.
Substantial Improvement/ Substantial Damage Desk Reference (FEMA)
The “Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk Reference” by FEMA (FEMA P-758, May 2010) provides comprehensive guidance for implementing the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements. The document is designed to assist local officials, state agencies, and FEMA representatives in administering regulations for structures in flood-prone areas.
View: Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk Reference by FEMA
Pinellas County Information
Links:
- Property Damage (Hurricane or Other Calamity) Information & Resources
- Pinellas County – Substantial Damage and Substantial Improvement
- Pinellas County – Flood Information Frequently Asked Questions
- Pinellas County – Flood Map Service (Flood Maps & Zones)
- Pinellas County – Flood Elevation Certificates
- Gulfport Public Library, Pinellas County, and FEMA Flood Publications
Frequent Questions:
Pinellas County Property Appraiser - Pre-Storm Building Value Reconsideration Application
If your property is located with a Special Flood Hazard Area (A or V flood zones) and received storm damage to the main structure, you may request that the Pinellas County Property Appraiser office conduct a Pre-Storm Building Value Reconsideration (BVR).
View and Download: Application Pre-Storm Building Value Reconsideration Application
Where can I find the pre-damaged market value of the structure?
- Go to the Pinellas County Property Appraiser’s Website at https://www.pcpao.gov
- In the Quick Search area, enter the address and click the search button.
- After the page loads, you should see “Quick Pick Tool” on the right; click “FEMA/WLM Letter”
What is the FEMA 50% Rule?
The FEMA 50% Rule is a federal regulation that affects how much you can spend to repair or improve a property in a regulated flood zone. If your property is in a flood zone, this rule might require you to take extra steps when repairing damage or making large improvements.
This rule applies to any structure, residential or commercial, that is not elevated above the current Base Flood Elevation plus 1 (one) foot.
Learn More about the FEMA 50% Rule through these resources:
FEMA Resources
Resources for Survivors: Disaster Assistance | Individual and Households Program | Eligibility Criteria for FEMA Assistance | Programs to Support Disaster Survivors | How to Let FEMA Know of Your Accessibility Needs
Survivor Resources
How to Apply for FEMA Assistance
If you sustained damage or loss from Hurricanes Milton, Helene, or Debby, FEMA may be able to help. You may be eligible for financial assistance for displacement, serious needs, temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses, and other uninsured disaster-related expenses.
- The quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- Or use the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- You can also call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.
2024 Application deadline for Hurricanes Helene and Milton: January 7, 2025.
Transitional Sheltering Assistance
Transitional
Sheltering Assistance (TSA) is available for Floridians displaced by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton in 52 counties and for tribal members of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians. Residents in these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. Applicants do not need to request TSA. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email. Survivors who have been approved for TSA can find hotel options here: Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA)
Disaster Recovery Centers
Disaster Recovery Centers are open. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA App. FEMA does not distribute cash at Disaster Recovery Centers.
U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online at SBA.gov/disaster. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Additional Resources
- Applying for FEMA Assistance
- Toolkits: Utilize these toolkits to create your own messaging to your networks.
- Hurricane Milton
- Hurricane Helene
- How to Appeal FEMA’s Decision
- Disaster Fraud
- FEMA Public Assistance: Your organization may be eligible for these resources. Check the link for eligibility information.
- FEMA Office of Civil Rights
- Activate Hope: Displaced survivors can apply for State Non-Congregate Sheltering by visiting the Activate Hope website at hopeflorida.com and filling out the Assistance Request Form or by calling the Hope Florida support line at 833-GET-HOPE (833-438-4673).
- FDEM Statewide Debris Dashboard: Debris Survey Results (Milton).
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA): If you lost your job or had a break in employment, self-employment, or business as a direct result of the recent hurricanes, visit Disaster Unemployment Assistance – FloridaJobs.org to learn about benefit money from Disaster Unemployment Assistance.
- Clean & Sanitize: FEMA may be able to provide up to $300 in one-time financial assistance to help with cleanup. Clean and Sanitize Assistance | FEMA.gov.
- Multi-Agency Resource Centers: Florida Division of Emergency Management and local communities are operating these centers to assist residents with storm recovery. FEMA specialists are available at most centers.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture/Farm Services Agency: Emergency Disaster Designation and Declaration Process
- FEMA & Citizenship: You or a member of your household must be a U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national, or qualified non-citizen to apply for FEMA assistance.
- Be Alert to Fraud: Con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after disasters. Be Alert to Fraud After Florida Hurricanes
- FEMA Rumor Response: Know what’s true and what isn’t. Hurricane Rumor Response
- National Flood Insurance Program Installment Plan FAQs
- Small Business Hurricane Recovery Grant Program FAQs through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
- Mental health Resources for Floridians
- For help with cleanup, call 833-GET-HOPE
- Tips for Mold Cleanup
Florida Division of Emergency Management Updates: - Disaster Legal Hotline: (833) 514-2940)
Florida Disaster Housing Products
FEMA’s Direct Housing Program products are to be utilized for amplification. All products can be found on the FEMA Sheltering and Housing Assistance hub at FEMA.gov.
News Releases
Direct Temporary Housing Approved for Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton Survivors in Florida (English) | (Spanish)
Fact Sheet
FEMA Seeks Property Management Companies for Direct Lease (English) | (Spanish)
FEMA Seeks Multifamily Properties to House Hurricane Survivors (English) | (Spanish)
FAQ: Direct Temporary Housing Assistance in Florida (English) | (Spanish)
Resources Available for Floridians Recovering from Hurricanes (English) | (Spanish)
Individuals and Households Program (English) | (Spanish)
Elevate Florida
Project Information at FloridaDisaster.gov
Review the state’s list of Frequently Asked Questions and our Residential Mitigation Funding Information one-pager for more information.