Do I Need Flood Insurance to Remodel my Punta Gorda Home Near the Water?

If you're planning a home renovation or remodel in Punta Gorda or any other waterfront area in Southwest Florida, you're probably asking:

Do I need flood insurance before remodeling a waterfront home in Florida?

Here’s everything you need to know before picking up a hammer or calling a contractor.

Why Flood Insurance Matters When Remodeling Near Water

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in Florida, especially during hurricane season. If your home is in a high-risk flood zone, you may be required by law—or your lender—to carry flood insurance before making major improvements.

When Flood Insurance Is Required for Remodeling

You may need flood insurance if:

• Your home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)

• You're using a federally backed mortgage

• You're substantially improving the home (more on that below)

• Your renovation involves permits, structural work, or raising/lowering the building

• You're participating in FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) guidelines

In Punta Gorda and other parts of Charlotte County, many waterfront homes fall into SFHA zones.

What Counts as a “Substantial Improvement”?

Under FEMA guidelines, a substantial improvement is when the cost of your renovation equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the structure before the improvement. This can trigger the need for compliance with floodplain management regulations, including raising your home’s base elevation.

How to Check Your Flood Zone

You can find your flood zone by searching your address on:

• FEMA Flood Map Service Center

• Your local county GIS mapping tools (e.g., Charlotte County Flood Maps)

• Ask your insurance agent or contractor (like Maloney Homes—we’ll help!)

What This Means for Your Remodel

If You’re Remodeling Near Water in Florida:

• Check your flood zone before applying for permits

• Talk to your insurance provider about coverage before you start

• Work with a licensed contractor who understands FEMA and local code

• If in a high-risk zone, flood insurance may be required to approve your remodel

Does Flood Insurance Cover the Renovation Work?

Not exactly. Flood insurance typically covers damage from a flood, not remodeling itself. But it protects your investment in case a flood happens during or after construction.

Some policies may offer increased cost of compliance (ICC) coverage to help pay for updates required by new floodplain regulations.

At Maloney Homes, We’ve Got Your Back

We’ve helped dozens of homeowners in Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, and the barrier islands navigate the complexities of remodeling near the water. From permitting and design to flood zone compliance, we’ll make sure your remodel is beautiful—and up to code.

Ready to Remodel Your Waterfront Home in Florida?

Let’s chat! Contact Maloney Homes today to schedule your free consultation.

Custom Remodeling | Hurricane Repairs | Historic Restorations

Based in Punta Gorda | Serving Charlotte County & Southwest Florida