Florida Mandates One-Year Transferable Warranty for New Homes Starting 2025

Florida has introduced a significant consumer protection measure with a new law set to take effect on July 1, 2025. This legislation mandates builders to offer a one-year, transferable warranty for newly constructed residential homes, encompassing modular, manufactured, or factory-built units. The warranty, detailed in Florida Statute §553.837, specifically addresses construction defects in equipment, materials, or workmanship that result in material violations of the Florida Building Code. Builders are obligated to rectify these defects at their own cost, with the provision to offer an express written warranty that meets or surpasses the statutory requirements.

The warranty coverage commences from the date of the original conveyance of title to the initial owner or the date of initial occupancy, whichever occurs first. It notably excludes appliances or equipment covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, normal wear and tear, settling within accepted trade practices, defects attributable to the owner, and damages stemming from natural disasters or acts of God. Additionally, builders are required to restore any work damaged during the repair of covered defects.

This legislative move is designed to bolster consumer safeguards in the housing market, ensuring new homeowners have a mechanism to address construction defects. Builders are encouraged to reassess their warranty practices and consider contractual arrangements with subcontractors to handle potential indemnity or remediation obligations.