Downstairs Enclosures: What You Need to Know

Background

Living in the Florida Keys comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to understanding the rules regarding downstairs spaces in homes.

Rules for Downstairs Enclosures

Here in the Florida Keys, the entire area is at risk of flooding, so there are important rules to follow. If your house was built after 1974, one key rule is that the lowest floor of your home must be above the flood level. This is crucial to prevent flood damage to your property.  Homes that were built before 1974 and have living areas below flood are grandfathered in.

What You Can Do In Your Downstairs Enclosure?

If you have a downstairs area in your home, it’s essential to know that it can only be used for limited purposes. Specifically, these spaces are reserved for parking your vehicles or storing items like lawnmowers, tools, and equipment that you would typically keep outdoors.

Understanding Flood Levels

To make informed decisions about your property, you need to grasp the concept of flood levels. The flood level is the lowest point in your home where you can have living space. To find out the specific flood levels for your area, you can easily check online flood maps.

Difference Between Spaces

To avoid any confusion, it’s vital to differentiate between your regular living spaces and other areas in your home. Living spaces are where you cook, eat, sleep, and spend your daily life. Other floors, like your downstairs area, are designated for parking vehicles or storage, such as tools and equipment.

Using Enclosure Spaces Wisely

When it comes to using the storage spaces below your home, keep in mind that they should exclusively serve for parking cars or storing items like lawnmowers and tools. It’s essential not to place furniture or belongings that can’t withstand exposure to water in these areas. The purpose of these spaces is to provide a safe and dry spot for items typically stored outside.

Seeking Guidance

If you ever find yourself uncertain about these rules or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us. 

You can also contact the folks at the Monroe County Growth Management Division, Office of Floodplain Management. You can give them a call at 305.453-8759. They are there to assist you in understanding and complying with the regulations governing downstairs enclosures in the Florida Keys.

Bad

Downstairs Enclosure

New Regulations Came out about downstairs enclosures

so be sure to read our other post

– Buying a home in the Florida Keys – Downstairs Enclosures 

– Florida Keys Building – Downstairs Enclosures

You might also want to check out :

– Breaking Down Flood Maps in the Florida Keys  

If your thinking about buying a home in the FloridaKeys, be sure to check out our main Buying Page for some really great information!

You can also Contact Us with any of your buying questions.  We would love to hear from you.

Amy Prumo – 310-384-5647

[email protected]

Amy’s success as a Florida Keys Elite Agent and Diamond Award Winner is truly awe-inspiring. With over 13 years of experience in the real estate industry, she has cemented her position as a trailblazer and pioneer. Her unwavering commitment to excellence is reflected in her impressive academic credentials, which include a Master’s Degree in Marketing and Management. Amy’s marketing programs are simply unmatched, ensuring that your property is showcased to the widest audience of potential buyers, thus guaranteeing maximum exposure.