In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), under the direction of Governor Ron DeSantis, filed Emergency Order 2024-08 on September 29, 2024. This action aims to expedite recovery efforts and remove regulatory barriers for contractors and businesses striving to rebuild communities impacted by the storm.

Key Provisions of DBPR Emergency Order 2024-08

The emergency order introduces several temporary measures that allow contractors more flexibility in responding to the urgent needs of hurricane-affected areas. Here’s a breakdown of the key provisions:

1. Subcontracting Roofing Work by General, Building, and Residential Contractors

The emergency order temporarily suspends certain provisions of section 489.113(3) of the Florida Statutes, permitting certified or registered general contractors, building contractors, and residential contractors to subcontract roofing work for the repair or installation of any roof type. This step is crucial for speeding up the repair process and addressing the widespread roofing damage caused by the hurricane.

Impact: This allows a broader range of contractors to assist in roofing repairs, ensuring that damaged structures are secured more rapidly and efficiently.

2. Extended Geographic Scope for Registered Contractors

The order also suspends specific provisions of section 489.117, allowing registered contractors to operate outside their normal geographic scope limitations as outlined in section 489.117(1)(b) and (c) of the Florida Statutes. These contractors can provide services beyond their usual areas, subject to additional requirements specified in the emergency order.

Impact: By allowing registered contractors to work in areas where they are most needed, the order enhances the availability of skilled professionals, thus accelerating recovery efforts.

3. Extended Geographic Scope for Registered Electrical and Alarm System Contractors

Similarly, the order suspends certain provisions of section 489.513, enabling registered electrical and alarm system contractors to work outside their standard geographic limitations, as described in section 489.513(5) of the Florida Statutes. As with other contractors, they must adhere to additional requirements laid out in the emergency order while it remains in effect.

Impact: Electrical and alarm system repairs are often critical following hurricane damage. This provision helps ensure that affected homes and businesses can restore power and security systems as quickly as possible.

4. Exemption for Non-Permanent, Emergency Tarps

Finally, the emergency order specifies that installing non-permanent, emergency tarps to mitigate damage from Hurricane Helene is covered under the exemptions listed in section 489.103(6) of the Florida Statutes. This means contractors can place tarps on damaged roofs without the usual regulatory constraints, providing immediate relief to property owners.

Impact: This measure helps homeowners and businesses prevent further water damage and gives them more time to arrange for permanent repairs.

How This Emergency Order Helps Hurricane Helene Recovery

By temporarily relaxing licensing and geographic restrictions, Emergency Order 2024-08 enables a greater pool of qualified contractors to participate in the recovery process. These changes ensure that skilled professionals can respond quickly to pressing repair needs, helping communities rebuild and return to normalcy as soon as possible.

For contractors, this is an opportunity to expand their services and assist in areas hit hardest by Hurricane Helene. However, it's essential for all contractors to remain aware of the specific requirements and limitations outlined in the emergency order to ensure compliance.

Final Thoughts

The swift action taken by the DBPR and Governor Ron DeSantis highlights the importance of adaptability in times of crisis. Emergency Order 2024-08 provides much-needed flexibility, enabling the state to tap into its full pool of contractor talent and resources. As the rebuilding process continues, these measures will play a vital role in ensuring Florida’s communities recover from Hurricane Helene’s impact.

For contractors looking to participate in recovery efforts, be sure to review Emergency Order 2024-08 in full to understand the requirements and take advantage of the temporary provisions.

Looking to Get Licensed?

If you're ready to take the next step in your contracting career, 1 Exam Prep is here to help. We offer the resources and guidance you need to successfully navigate the licensing process. Contact us today at sales@1examprep.com or give us a call at (877) 775-9400 to get started!