Florida's coastal communities have added 1.5 million new residents and almost a half-million new homes in the last decade, but the risk of catastrophic destruction hasn't grown along with the new development, says the Miami Herald.

The eight hurricanes that devastated the state and cost $33 million in insurance claims in back-to-back seasons a decade ago seem to be a distant memory to those new homeowners and home builders—except for the building codes.

According to the report, experts say Florida builders are doing a better job of making structures hurricane-resistant, in part by adhering to the state's building code implemented in 2002 after the onslaught of Hurricane Andrew. The 2002 code ensures that all new structures go through rigorous inspections and are built with shatter-proof glass and straps reinforcing the connection between roof and walls, says the Herald.

The stronger building codes haven't resulted in lower insurance premiums, however. Florida homeowners still pay twice the national average for home insurance, says the Herald.

Special Reports /

Florida adds new homes without increasing risk of catastrophic destruction

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