Effective October 1, 2025, Florida landlords must now disclose flood history to tenants. This new requirement, Senate Bill 948 (SB 948), is designed to give renters more transparency about the flood risks of a property before signing a lease.
What does SB 948 require landlords to disclose?
Landlords must now tell tenants in writing if the property:
- Has sustained flood damage in the past
- Has had a flood insurance claim filed
- Has received federal disaster assistance for flood damage
This is all about flood-related history only. It does not apply to fire, wind, theft, or other types of insurance claims.
Do landlords have to disclose if a home is in a FEMA flood zone?
No — the law doesn’t specifically require landlords to tell tenants whether the property sits in a FEMA high-risk flood zone.
However, from a “cover yourself” (CYA) standpoint, many landlords may want to add this information voluntarily. Including a simple note like “This property is located in FEMA Flood Zone X” can help avoid disputes later.
Why does this matter for renters in Belleview, Ocala, and The Villages?
Our area is no stranger to heavy rains, hurricanes, and rising water. Even if a property has never flooded, it could still be at risk.
- Tenants should know: a standard renters policy does not cover flood damage. You’ll need a separate flood policy for your personal belongings.
- Landlords should know: transparency protects you from liability, and flood insurance helps protect your investment.
What should renters ask before signing a lease?
If you’re moving into a rental property in Belleview, Ocala, or The Villages, ask:
- Has this property ever had flood damage?
- Have any flood insurance claims been filed here?
- Is the home in a FEMA flood zone?
- Do I need a separate flood insurance policy for my belongings?
How Preferred Insurance can help
At Preferred Insurance in Ocklawaha, serving Belleview, Ocala, and The Villages, we specialize in homeowners, renters, and flood coverage. Whether you’re a landlord who needs to protect your property or a renter who wants peace of mind, we’ll help you understand your risks and options.
📞 Call us at 844-329-1444 or visit PreferredInsurance.LLC to review your flood coverage today.
Local tip: Even if your property isn’t in a high-risk FEMA flood zone, one in five flood claims comes from low- or moderate-risk areas. Don’t assume “no flood zone” means “no risk.”
