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New Jersey Rolls Out Vital Flood Risk Disclosure Tools in Climate Change Response
Groundbreaking Legislation Empowers Homebuyers and Renters with Key Flood Risk Information.
MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY - In a pivotal move to combat the escalating flood risks posed by climate change, New Jersey officials have introduced innovative tools and resources aimed at equipping residents with essential information on flood hazards. Spearheaded by key state departments and officials, this initiative marks a significant advancement in empowering prospective homeowners and renters.
The newly implemented measures, led by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and others, are a response to New Jersey's increasing vulnerability to climate-induced flooding. These tools include upgraded property disclosure forms and a user-friendly online lookup tool, providing vital information on flood risks and property histories. This initiative stems from flood risk disclosure legislation, which Governor Phil Murphy enacted in June 2023.
New Jersey's proactive approach, evident in its “A” grade on the Natural Resources Defense Council’s Flood Risk Disclosure Law Scorecard, positions it as a leader among seven states in flood risk awareness and preparedness. The measures align with the 2020 Climate Change Resilience Strategy, underlining New Jersey’s commitment to confronting climate challenges.
Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of informing residents about flood risks in their chosen living areas, underscoring the initiative's role in enhancing safety and informed decision-making. Attorney General Platkin highlighted the robust nature of these protections, noting their significance in the national context.
Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez from the Department of Community Affairs, and Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette of the Department of Environmental Protection, stressed the geographical and climatic factors exacerbating New Jersey's flood risks. Their departments have collaborated to provide residents with comprehensive flood risk data, enhancing the state’s overall climate resilience.
This law mandates disclosures about a property's flood history and FEMA Flood Hazard Zone status, a requirement previously unenforced in New Jersey. Acting Director Cari Fais from the Division of Consumer Affairs underscored the consumer's right to make informed decisions, a principle central to these measures.
The updated Seller’s Property Condition Disclosure Statement, now featuring a "Flood Risk" section, is available on the Division of Consumer Affairs website. Additionally, the Department of Community Affairs has published a model notice for landlords to inform tenants about flood risks, available on its website.
To facilitate compliance with FEMA Flood Hazard Area disclosure requirements, the Department of Environmental Protection has developed the Flood Risk Notification Tool. This online platform allows property-specific flood risk assessments, including projections on sea-level rise.
These resources, available at https://flooddisclosure.nj.gov/, represent New Jersey's holistic approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate change, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
