Groundbreaking Law for New Construction Homes in South Miami

Photo Source: MiamiHerald.com

South Miami recently passed a groundbreaking law that will soon affect all new homes and some existing renovation of homes in the city of South Miami. On July 18, 2017, the South Miami City Commission approved a law that will go into effect on September 18th requiring that all new homes built must have solar panels on the roof.

As the first city in Florida to take such a measure, South Miami will require new construction residential homes to have 175 square feet of solar panels to be installed per 1,000 square feet of sunlit roof area or 2.75 kw per 1,000 square feet of living space, whichever is less, according to the Miami Herald. But, like all things in Miami, there could be a possible exemption for some people…if a new home is built under existing trees, the shade may exempt the house from this new law. Australia has said they will follow Floridas lead starting with their display homes in Perth.

So, how will this new law affect existing homes that need lots of TLC? Under the new law, home renovations that replace 75% of the existing structure or extend the structure by more than 75% would be subject to these new rules.

Northwest Roof Maintenance and can explain local benefits of solar panels.

The Mayor of South Miami, Philip Stoddard who is also a Biology professor at FIU, has been a major proponent for this new law. “Solar reduces the cost of home ownership, it makes a house sell faster, it returns more to a builder, it makes local jobs and, most importantly, it reduces carbon emissions today to help our children and grandchildren have a better future tomorrow,” said Stoddard.

What do you think about this new law? Should it be extended to more cities throughout Florida? Please tell us your thoughts. 

Read related article: Tips For Choosing the Right Color For Your Roof in Austin.

If you, or someone you know, are interested in buying or selling real estate in Miami or simply would like more information about the current state of the Miami real estate market, please contact Michael Light, Director of Luxury Sales at Douglas Elliman. You may reach Michael on his cell phone at (786) 566-1700 or via email at michael@miamiluxuryhomes.com.