Buying a newly constructed Miami home is super exciting, but understanding
the warranties that come with it is just as important. With the new House Bill
623 (HB623) law in place, things are looking up for homeowners across Florida.
HB 623 became effective on July 1, 2024. This means that any
new home purchases and builder warranties from this date forward will be
governed by the provisions outlined in the bill.
Let’s go over what HB 623 is all about and how it impacts
you.
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What Exactly is HB 623?
HB 623 is a new Florida law that makes builder warranties
clearer and more standardized. Basically, it makes sure builders give you all
the details on what’s covered and for how long. Here’s the breakdown:
Standardized
Warranty Periods
Builders have to offer a warranty for major
structural components (think foundations, framing, and roofing) for at
least 10 years.
Systems
and Workmanship
You get a two-year warranty for things like
plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, and general workmanship.
Mandatory
Disclosure
Builders
now must give you a detailed warranty document before you close on the purchase
of your new Miami home. This doc tells you what’s covered, how long it’s
covered, and how to file a claim if something goes wrong.
Clear
Definitions
The
law spells out key terms like "major structural defects" and
"warranty start date" to avoid any confusion.
Easier
Dispute Resolution
If
you have issues, there’s now a smoother process for resolving them
through mediation or arbitration, so you can skip the lengthy court
battles.
How HB 623 Benefits Miami Homeowners
This new legislation brings excellent news for homeowners, adding peace of mind to the purchase of newly built homes. Better transparency means you'll know exactly what your builder's warranty covers, resulting in fewer surprise repair costs down the line. Additionally, higher quality homes are now more common because builders are motivated to maintain high standards to avoid warranty claims, ensuring you get a better-built home. Moreover, if something does go wrong, the new dispute process allows for quicker issue resolution, making fixes faster and less stressful.
Tips for Miami Homebuyers
Check
Those Warranty Documents: Make sure you get and read the warranty
document from the builder before you close the sale. Know what’s covered
and how to make a claim.
Keep
Good Records: Save all communications and repair records related to
your home. These can be a lifesaver if you need to file a warranty claim.
Stay
on Top of Maintenance: Regular upkeep can prevent problems that aren’t
covered by the warranty, like wear and tear or neglect.
Wrapping It Up
HB 623 is a big win for homebuyers in Miami. By knowing what this law covers, you can buy your new home with more confidence. At My Casitas Miami, we’re here to keep you in the loop on important changes and tips for navigating the Miami real estate market.
Got more questions about builder warranties or anything else real estate-related? Reach out to us at My Casitas Miami. We’re always here to help! If you find yourself in need of assistance with a builder issue, it's recmmended to check with a legal professional.
About the Author: Liz Kenneally is a seasoned real estate agent in Miami with extensive experience in the city's dynamic market. Specializing in coveted neighborhoods such as Coral Gables, Dadeland, Continental Park, East Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest, South Miami, and The Falls, Liz ensures smooth transactions for her diverse clientele. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she can be contacted at 786-423-3348 or through the EMAIL AGENT form provided alongside this blog.