Across Florida, residents are dealing with the aftermath of stricter building inspections that are uncovering safety risks and forcing people out of their homes. The increased inspection requirements, put in place after the 2021 Surfside disaster, aim to protect residents but have brought significant disruption. Here’s how it’s playing out in some communities:
Unexpected Evictions in New Port Richey’s Gardens at Beacon Square
In October 2024, the residents of Gardens at Beacon Square in New Port Richey were told they needed to leave their homes due to severe flood damage that made the building unsafe. The repairs, expected to take anywhere from six months to a year, left many scrambling to make new living arrangements.
One resident, Jennifer McKown, shared her difficult choice: “I’m packing up what I can save and heading to Georgia. I’ll stay in a hotel until I can figure out what’s next.” For Jennifer, returning isn’t on the table.