Village Connection – Hurricane Ian Recovery

Important Information about Debris, Damage and Repairs

 

The Village of Estero continues to assist residents and businesses with Hurricane Ian recovery.

 

Building Repairs & Permits

 

IMPORTANT: Make sure all contractors are licensed and insured. This is required by state law to protect property owners from unqualified contractors. 

Permits are necessary for your own protection and are important for resale and mortgage purposes. Inspections ensure the work done meets building codes. Permits to repair hurricane damage are being prioritized.

• Building Repairs NOT Requiring a Permit: Removal of debris; Repair/replacement of soffits and gutters; Screen replacement (structural components of the lanai require a permit); Replacement of broken glass within existing framing for windows and doors; Structural shoring and bracing.
• Building Repairs Requiring a Permit: ALL structural repairs; Drywall replacement over 100 sq. ft.; Fence replacement (exception: previously permitted fences destroyed due to storm may be reinstalled like-for-like in the exact same location); Lanai, doors, windows.

 

Contact Village staff at (239) 221-5036 for further information.

 

Information on FEMA 50% Rule

Properties located in a Special Flood Hazard Area will fall under the Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Determination (50% rule). If the repair amount is equal to or exceeds 50 percent of the improved value of the structure before the event, the structure must comply with current elevation standards outlined in the Florida Building Code 7th Edition.

The Village of Estero, following the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements, has the responsibility to determine “substantial damage” and “substantial improvement.”

• Substantial damage is defined as damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its “before damage” condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the structure. (Note: The cost of the repairs must include all costs necessary to fully repair the structure to its “before damage” condition.)

• Substantial improvement is defined as any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure (before any improvements are performed).

 

These laws are required by the NFIP to protect lives and investment from future flood damages. The Village must enforce these laws in order for federally-backed flood insurance to be made available to its residents and property owners.

 

Debris Removal (Piles)

The Village of Estero’s debris hauler, Crowder Gulf, has generally completed a first pass to remove first piles of debris. For some communities, especially those located west of U.S. 41, Crowder Gulf will make several more passes until all debris is removed.

FEMA regulations control what Crowder Gulf can pick up. Please make sure your debris piles comply with the following:   

1. Make separate piles for vegetation debris, construction and demolition debris, large appliances, and electronics.  
2. No plastic bags, especially for vegetation debris
3. Locate piles away from mailboxes, fire hydrants or any other objects that could be damaged while loading the pile.  

 

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