On April 15, 2024, Governor DeSantis signed HB 623 into law, introducing new protections for homebuyers in Florida. Effective July 1, 2025, this law mandates that builders provide a comprehensive home warranty for newly constructed homes. The warranty covers structural components for ten years, workmanship and materials for one year, and plumbing, electrical, heating, and air conditioning systems for two years. This legislation ensures that new homeowners have recourse for addressing construction defects, enhancing consumer protection in the housing market.
In summary:
- Mandatory Warranty: Builders must provide a one-year warranty for construction defects in newly constructed homes.
- Home Warranty Coverage: Includes structural components, materials, and workmanship.
- Exclusions: Normal wear and tear, house settling, defects from non-builder modifications, and damages from natural disasters or third parties.
- Builder Obligations: Remedy covered defects and restore any related damage at their expense.
- Express Warranties: Can supersede statutory warranties if they meet or exceed the required scope and duration.
- Enforcement: Limited to private civil action by purchasers.
Additionally, HB 623 demonstrates Florida’s dedication to consumer protection in the housing market. The law ensures that new homeowners receive comprehensive warranties, boosting confidence in their investments. By enforcing higher construction standards, Florida fosters a more secure and reliable housing environment. This legislation encourages builders to maintain quality, ultimately benefiting both the industry and homebuyers. Homeowners now have greater assurance that their new properties will meet high standards and remain protected against construction defects.