Substantial Damage and Substantial Improvement

Note: Tidal Basin is a state funded contractor assigned to complete all Substantial Damage Estimate Reports under the management of Pinellas County.

We know recovering from two hurricanes is overwhelming. Pinellas County is actively working to help our residents get back on their feet while following guidelines that will protect our community from future harm.

Substantial Damage means the cost to repair the home equals 50% of more of its value without the land.

To keep coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program and maintain other federal benefits, it is required that all buildings in flood hazard areas that make substantial repairs or improvements to elevate or rebuild up to new flood safety standards.

Here’s what you can expect:

• The County made a list of homes that were likely to have flooded or where significant damage was reported.
• Inspectors are visiting these homes to document the damage. If no one is there to let them in, they are doing their best from the outside.
• A quality review and assessment are being done to estimate the amount of damage to each home. This should be completed by the end of the year, but many will be done sooner. Property owners will get a letter informing them of the assessment.
• You don’t have to wait for the County to complete the Substantial Damage Assessment if you have a permit ready to file.
• If you had minor damage – i.e. less than 12’’ of water and below power outlets – apply for permits now.
• If you had more extensive damage, hire a licensed contractor or submit photos and a detailed repair estimate to bring your home back to pre-storm condition. The City will assign a disaster assistance contractor to review the repair estimate vs. structure value to determine if it is considered Substantially Damaged.
• Whether your home is determined as Substantially Damaged or not, all improvements are subject to the 50% structure value rule.



The flowchart below shows the options for properties designated Substantially Damaged or not.

Funding may be available to help. Homeowners may be eligible for funding to help meet requirements to elevate or rebuild. FEMA and other agencies may open funding programs to residents whose primary residence flooded or who must or wish to bring their homes into compliance with current floodplain requirements. DisasterAssistance.gov for more information.



Important things to remember:

• Storm Recovery Permit Fees Waived – Belleair Beach has waived permit fees for all storm-related repairs. Pinellas County review and inspection fees will continue to be charged. For permit details and applications, see our Storm Damage Permit Package. For questions, email permits@cityofbelleairbeach.com.
• Actual Cash Value is determined by the Property Appraiser or a private appraiser that follows the Pinellas County Appraisal Checklist.
• The rule applies even if you do the work yourself or used donated materials (See items included in Substantial Damage repairs).

City of Belleair Beach

444 Causeway Boulevard

Belleair Beach, FL 33786