Do You Trust The Villages

[jcvdd1]

As the hurricane approaches, I sincerely wish the best to everyone and I hope that the damages, if any are kept to a minimum.

That being said, do you guys really trust the workmanship in your homes that were built by The Villages?

I'm no construction engineer, but it seems to me that many homes here in The Villages were built quickly and I just wonder, what if the "big-one" strikes.

How will the homes hold-up?

[tophcfa]

Our house was built in 1996 and is still holding up strong. The only damage from Irma a couple of years ago was a lost piece of siding. So far, so good.

[Taltarzac725]

Our house dates to 2004 and has weathered some storms well and we are pretty well protected this far inland except for from the tornadoes that sometimes are created by hurricanes as they work their way through.

[graciegirl]

As the hurricane approaches, I sincerely wish the best to everyone and I hope that the damages, if any are kept to a minimum.

That being said, do you guys really trust the workmanship in your homes that were built by The Villages?

I'm no construction engineer, but it seems to me that many homes here in The Villages were built quickly and I just wonder, what if the "big-one" strikes.

How will the homes hold-up?

The homes were built quickly because they are built by teams, carefully choreographed teams. There are different groups of workers for foundations and plumbing and electrical and roofing and dry wall and framing and they know when and where they will be the day you sign for your home to be built. The materials are also carefully ordered and placed when the teams need them. We watched this home being built and were amazed at how smooth the process is. Even to some of the work was done over if the chief builder in charge didn't like how it was done. The roofing crew must have had ten plus men who arrived early and stayed way past six on a day that was in the nineties.

[EdFNJ]

I trust The Villages but not my neighbors who (during Irma) left out many guided missiles I didn't want to find on our bedroom . I had to run around asking them to please bring those ^%^$&$&$ flowerpots. light patio lawn chairs & patio umbrellas inside. House (11yrs old) siding and (4 yrs old) roof survived 100% hopefully this time will be the same. That was my first FL hurricane.

[jcvdd1]

Our house was built in 1996 and is still holding up strong. The only damage from Irma a couple of years ago was a lost piece of siding. So far, so good.

Ok, but your home was built over 20 years ago when workmanship within The Villages "old management team" mattered.

In my humble opinion, the new homes built now and managed by the "new" management team at The Villages place profit over workmanship. Just my opinion.

[Altavia]

As part of my due dilligence I walked through 6 homes under construction and observed well built homes using the latest hurricane resistance construction methods.

The fact that they build thousands of the same home results in a highly optimized design and construction process.

[bagboy]

I'm not sure what the OPs motive is, but under the circumstances with a severe storm approaching, this thread rates way up there as one of the most pathetic threads I've seen on ToTV.

[Velvet]

No, I don’t think this thread is pathetic at all. I feel that when you face your first hurricane you’d like to know how safe you are in your home in TV. For example, do frame houses fare ok, as compared to block ones? How about manufactured homes? What about the different ages of houses as the building codes have changed several times.

[NotGolfer]

Do YOU trust? We could be living in Tornado Allley---would you say the same there? Weather happens ALL over the world. Yes there's a lot of "news" regarding the weather. Sometimes I think it's over-done and if they gave updates just during the regular news, rather than adding between programming and updating on social media we'd be much better off. I think all this plays into people's anxieties. We've lived in FL/The Villages for 10 yrs now and so far we're good with where we are. As someone else said...pull all the stuff on your patio's, side-walks etc. inside. You don't want it blowing across the neighborhood and being responsible for damaging other people's properties. Be prepared for the worse and pray for the best!!! Worrying and lamenting about it won't improve anything.

[Velvet]

They say, “Knowledge never kills, but ignorance can.”

[Ooper]

Buildings in Florida have to be built to certain construction codes. Whether buildings constructed within or outside the Villages have to withstand established wind velocities for that particular area before they are certified for occupancy. All newly constructed building are inspected by county inspectors, not Villages inspectors, to make certain the structure adheres to these safety standards.

[CWGUY]

Ok, but your home was built over 20 years ago when workmanship within The Villages "old management team" mattered.

In my humble opinion, the new homes built now and managed by the "new" management team at The Villages place profit over workmanship. Just my opinion.

:ohdear: IMHO You know what they say about opinions......:censored:

[jcvdd1]

No, I don’t think this thread is pathetic at all. I feel that when you face your first hurricane you’d like to know how safe you are in your home in TV. For example, do frame houses fare ok, as compared to block ones? How about manufactured homes? What about the different ages of houses as the building codes have changed several times.

THANK YOU for understanding my post-

I observed countless of supposedly "well-built" homes in South Miami-Dade County that were completely destroyed after Hurricane Andrew.

So yes, I'm concerned.

[VApeople]

So yes, I'm concerned.

So what are you going to do about it?

You could rent a mobile home and hunker down in it, if that would make you feel better.

[Love2Swim]

No, I don’t think this thread is pathetic at all. I feel that when you face your first hurricane you’d like to know how safe you are in your home in TV. For example, do frame houses fare ok, as compared to block ones? How about manufactured homes? What about the different ages of houses as the building codes have changed several times.

Good points. We have friends who live in the Historic side that always stay with us during hurricanes, because of worry about the ability of their home to withstand the high winds. We also lived through the tornado that struck the Villages in 2007 when 8 people were killed in the Lady Lake area, and about 1000 homes in the Villages were damaged. I remember the roof of Coconut Cove recreation center was completely blown off. Anyone who takes these storms lightly is a fool. The Villages did a superb job of cleanup - crews were on the streets the next day starting to pick up the storm debris.

[Chatbrat]

Still can't fathom why the doors on houses in TV open inward--in south Fl, their doors must open outward

[coffeebean]

THANK YOU for understanding my post-

I observed countless of supposedly "well-built" homes in South Miami-Dade County that were completely destroyed after Hurricane Andrew.

So yes, I'm concerned.

Building codes were changed after Andrew. Look at the reinforcements on garage doors we have now. That was not code when Andrew came through and that is just one example.

[coffeebean]

Still can't fathom why the doors on houses in TV open inward--in south Fl, their doors must open outward

When doors open outward, the hinges are on the outside so that is a security issue. All it takes is a screw driver and a hammer to remove the door.

Our front door on our home in South Florida swung to the inside.

[Martian]

I don't understand the point of the OP.

If the OP doesn't live in TV, then why come here and post a question like that which will instill possible fear into residents that are new to Florida.

If the OP does live in TV, then why do they live here? Why would a person live in Florida in a home they do not trust in a hurricane?

NOW is not the time for people to be questioning the building quality and safety of their homes, now is the time to try to relax and if that means going to visit friends up north, then do it, if that means getting some extra beers or wine to last through a few days of power outage, then do that. But focusing on quality of your homes building and whether or not it is safe is not a good thing for anyone - especially people new to Florida - to do when a hurricane is approaching. The time for that was before you purchased. I mean seriously folks Florida and hurricanes kind of go together, they always have and they always will. If you don't trust your home so much you have to come online and ask others if your home is safe, then you really need to consider moving someplace safer - like CA on a Clift side so your home can go slip sliding away in a mud slide, or Kansa so you can hum "Up, Up and away" as a tornado relocates your home to Oz, or to LA so you can get you exercise vibrating to the tunes of the next earth quake...

[retiredguy123]

If someone is really concerned about the construction quality of their house, the logical thing to do is to hire a home inspector or structural engineer to inspect the house to verify that it is constructed according to the building codes related to hurricane protection. I think the most significant feature to prevent hurricane damage is for the roof structure to be securely strapped down to the top of the exterior walls to prevent wind from blowing away the roof. And, there are other features that should be looked at, if you don't trust the builder.

[Bogie Shooter]

I'm not sure what the OPs motive is, but under the circumstances with a severe storm approaching, this thread rates way up there as one of the most pathetic threads I've seen on ToTV.

Well said....I totally agree.

[Bogie Shooter]

THANK YOU for understanding my post-

I observed countless of supposedly "well-built" homes in South Miami-Dade County that were completely destroyed after Hurricane Andrew.

So yes, I'm concerned.

Where was your concern when you were buying?
BTW how can you compare to South Miami-Dade County factually?

[rjn5656]

Florida has building codes to make homes as ready as possible for hurricanes. I am comfortable with my home, but agree more concern with what people don't put away during hurricanes.

[Marathon Man]

The 'big one' has already hit. It was called Irma. No need to speculate.

Oh, by the way. De we reallly need to worry our neighbors like this as a storm approaches? People are concerned enough. Asking a question will not change anything, so why do it?

[Number 10 GI]

THANK YOU for understanding my post-

I observed countless of supposedly "well-built" homes in South Miami-Dade County that were completely destroyed after Hurricane Andrew.

So yes, I'm concerned.

Codes have become more stringent over the years. How old were the homes in the area you cite? They possibly were built when codes were weaker. Short of a WWII Omaha Beach Nazi bunker most homes will suffer damage if the storm is strong enough.

[eyc234]

THANK YOU for understanding my post-

I observed countless of supposedly "well-built" homes in South Miami-Dade County that were completely destroyed after Hurricane Andrew.

So yes, I'm concerned.

:ohdear: Not wanting to bash someone but do you not read the news, watch the news, talk to realtors or keep up with what is going on in the world. Lived in a far off part of the US after Andrew and read when the laws were updated. Some of the most stringent building codes due to hurricanes were enacted down there. Now are followed by most FL communities.

[Martian]

And remember, while hurricanes are serious, with some common sense they are not that dangerous - ether hunker down or get out of the way. And DON'T listen to the news. They are sensationalizing everything to get clicks.

[dave111]

To the OP, I will not try to change your mind because from your two posts here you seem to have decided. Instead, I will point out a factual way for you and everyone else to see the "new villages team" not cutting corners in the building of the new homes. Go to any one of Don Wiley's youtube videos where he flys over and films the new homes being built. You will see may homes with green roofs, this material is self stick material adhered to the roof decking. It is also a self sealing membrane so each nail that penetrates it in attaching the roof shingles becomes sealed. It is commonly known as a secondary water barrier, meaning the roof shingles can be blown off by high winds but the green membrane remains water tight.

This type of material is an extra cost above the standard underlayment that is stapled to the roof deck. The standard underlayment meets the building code, the green membrane is above and beyond and many insurance companies discount the cost of coverage for homes that have it. This type of roof is far superior in preventing hurricane damage.

[Chatbrat]

Codes are the bare minimum, really good builders will exceed it if the customer is willing to pay--prime example is roofing, quality of the underlayment & how the underlayment is attached

[Kerry Azz]

As part of my due dilligence I walked through 6 homes under construction and observed well built homes using the latest hurricane resistance construction methods.

The fact that they build thousands of the same home results in a highly optimized design and construction process.

If I may I disagree I’ve had the pleasure of doing an extensive remodeling and the sub par quality finish work on the interior was ridiculous on my courtyard Villa. And it was built in 1994.
So whoever was responsible for the finish inspection and signed off on the paperwork was not doing his job.
Anyone buying a new home here will get a warranty for a year I recommend you hire a inspector to go completely through your house before that year is up.

[NotGolfer]

I took the liberty of looking at ALL the thread posts the OP started and apparently he/she has many questions re: living here (I'm assuming they already have moved in) over the past year. Those types of questions were ones we asked our agent and others before we signed on the dotted line to purchase. As for the impending storm--you must either have A LOT of anxiety as there were two very similar threads started within a relatively short period of time re: it. I'm currently listening to Jerry on WVLG this morning. He grew up in Miami btw. He's giving lots of info. that we can take in advisement. He tells us not to speculate! That would be the correct thing to do. IF you're anxious and fearful---maybe you should pack up and evacuate instead of stirring a pot on social media!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Basically - if you live in the "historical section" where there are mostly manufactured homes, you won't be safe if the storm hits *right there* in that spot. Even if you live in one of the newer site-built homes in Silver Lake, it'll get damaged by all the manufactured homes flying all over the place. But again, that is only IF the storm hits in that spot.

It isn't likely to get a direct hit in that spot; the worst in Silver Lake and Orange Blossom is more likely to be flooding and power outages.

A tornado came through the Villages and caused a lot of damage to one area - mostly several homes on a single street. A friend lives a block away from where the worst damage was, and was living there at the time (she's one of the reasons we decided, back in 2008, to move to the Villages when it was time to retire). Her home had very minor damage so this was really a very isolated incident.

Lady Lake, including the old section of the Villages, has a lot of trailer parks, so they fare a lot worse in tornadoes and hurricanes.

In general, homes in the Villages are built stronger than homes further north along the coast in other states.

[graciegirl]

Ok, but your home was built over 20 years ago when workmanship within The Villages "old management team" mattered.

In my humble opinion, the new homes built now and managed by the "new" management team at The Villages place profit over workmanship. Just my opinion.

Our lead builder has been with The Villages since he came with Gary Morse from Michigan. There are many builders and their crews. The State of Florida has hurricane requirements and standards for building, recently updated about twelve years ago. BUT

Nothing can withstand certain Hurricane conditions. They say hide from wind and run from water. Water is the biggest challenge. Last time with Irma, The Villages was able to divert a lot of the flooding and inundated their own golf courses to save the homes.

Then people complained they couldn't play golf for quite some time.

Be sure your car is gassed. Have cages ready for your pets. And know we are all worried.

[Chellybean]

Our lead builder has been with The Villages since he came with Gary Morse from Michigan. There are many builders and their crews. The State of Florida has hurricane requirements and standards for building, recently updated about twelve years ago. BUT

Nothing can withstand certain Hurricane conditions. They say hide from wind and run from water. Water is the biggest challenge. Last time with Irma, The Villages was able to divert a lot of the flooding and inundated their own golf courses to save the homes.

Then people complained they couldn't play golf for quite some time.

Be sure your car is gassed. Have cages ready for your pets. And know we are all worried.

Gracie you are always positive and up beat BUT!
The speed the homes are built in, is a concern and the inspectors can't keep up with construction and have to trust the contractors to do it right. For the most part it gets done correctly, at least the structure does.
The reality is that if a projectile hits the window and the house gets pressurized game over , the roof is likely to come off.
The Roof schedule is better than 20 to 30 pages for all the specs to be done correctly, even the nail pattern. The overhangs are at a minimum due to the lift they can create. Bottom-line is; hope we don't take a direct hit. Being inland is important for the hurricane to lose its strength..
Stay Safe everyone!!!!

[Polar Bear]

...the inspectors can't keep up with construction and have to trust the contractors to do it right...
I’m wondering what you base that on. Not likely at all.

[Chellybean]

I’m wondering what you base that on. Not likely at all.

Believe what you WANT!
If you haven't been in the industry for forty years you would have no clue. have a nice day!

[graciegirl]

When some are uncomfortable and worried they get angry.

When some can't find solutions to problems they look to blame and sometimes there is reason to blame.

We all have different reactions to frustration and danger

Most of the houses are fine and built well. We have owned two new homes here and have seen eleven homes built in our life time, not counting two of our children's home being built.

We watched this home be built every day, EVERY day. It is cementblock, our pick for winds. .

It only requires one chink or one alteration in a garage door to let in a little wind then whooooosh.

Everyone is worried. Everyone in Florida.

But if you're born to hang, you won't drown,...….. is what my grandfather told me. ;)

[Love2Swim]

I took the liberty of looking at ALL the thread posts the OP started and apparently he/she has many questions re: living here (I'm assuming they already have moved in) over the past year. Those types of questions were ones we asked our agent and others before we signed on the dotted line to purchase. As for the impending storm--you must either have A LOT of anxiety as there were two very similar threads started within a relatively short period of time re: it. I'm currently listening to Jerry on WVLG this morning. He grew up in Miami btw. He's giving lots of info. that we can take in advisement. He tells us not to speculate! That would be the correct thing to do. IF you're anxious and fearful---maybe you should pack up and evacuate instead of stirring a pot on social media!

And maybe you should be a good neighbor and not bash a poster for being fearful about a hurricane.

[Martian]

And maybe you should be a good neighbor and not bash a poster for being fearful about a hurricane.

I did not see anything Bashing. I saw honest observation and good advice. if you are having anxiety about your home in the face of an oncoming hurricane the correct thing to do is to get away while you can.

[Martian]

I will say it again, it amazes me how many people seem to not be happy with the quality here, but bought anyway...

[bagboy]

I don't understand the point of the OP.

If the OP doesn't live in TV, then why come here and post a question like that which will instill possible fear into residents that are new to Florida.

If the OP does live in TV, then why do they live here? Why would a person live in Florida in a home they do not trust in a hurricane?

NOW is not the time for people to be questioning the building quality and safety of their homes, now is the time to try to relax and if that means going to visit friends up north, then do it, if that means getting some extra beers or wine to last through a few days of power outage, then do that. But focusing on quality of your homes building and whether or not it is safe is not a good thing for anyone - especially people new to Florida - to do when a hurricane is approaching. The time for that was before you purchased. I mean seriously folks Florida and hurricanes kind of go together, they always have and they always will. If you don't trust your home so much you have to come online and ask others if your home is safe, then you really need to consider moving someplace safer - like CA on a Clift side so your home can go slip sliding away in a mud slide, or Kansa so you can hum "Up, Up and away" as a tornado relocates your home to Oz, or to LA so you can get you exercise vibrating to the tunes of the next earth quake...

RIGHT !!!! Now is not the time. This topic wasn't just an innocent little question in passing. If only a few people become anywhere from a little uncomfortable to outright panicked, then I suppose the OP will find joy in that. I stand by my criticism of this thread at this time of an impending severe storm coming.

[ColdNoMore]

When doors open outward, the hinges are on the outside so that is a security issue. All it takes is a screw driver and a hammer to remove the door.

Our front door on our home in South Florida swung to the inside.

That's simply not true. :ho:

[Chatbrat]

After Andrew in 92 the codes were changed, a friend of mine built Sunrise, he Built Marjorie Stoneman HS--he was the person who told me about the south Fl codes

Just checked its code that all s.Fl doors must swing outward in HVZ areas

[Love2Swim]

I did not see anything Bashing. I saw honest observation and good advice. if you are having anxiety about your home in the face of an oncoming hurricane the correct thing to do is to get away while you can.

Look again/\. The "bashing" was the "stirring the pot" remark about social media, which implied their post wasn't real or justified in some way.

[billethkid]

Yes!

[graciegirl]

Look again/\. The "bashing" was the "stirring the pot" remark about social media, which implied their post wasn't real or justified in some way.

She made a reasonable assessment and gave her opinion. I thought it fair and valid. I agree with her.

[CFrance]

After Andrew in 92 the codes were changed, a friend of mine built Sunrise, he Built Marjorie Stoneman HS--he was the person who told me about the south Fl codes

Just checked its code that all s.Fl doors must swing outward in HVZ areas
So... our doors swing inward. Is that because we are not technically in south Florida?

What does HVZ mean? I Googled it, to no avail.

[Chatbrat]

Most important our block designer was build in 2011-what is the wind rating of the roof, windows ,etc ?

[FenneyFanatic]

I trust The Villages implicitly. Their track record says it all. I do not care for negative agitators from the outside..

[anothersteve]

So... our doors swing inward. Is that because we are not technically in south Florida?

What does HVZ mean? I Googled it, to no avail.

Actually it's HVHZ, High Velocity Hurricane Zone
Steve

[New Englander]

Do You Trust The Villages? Yes I do.

[Martian]

Do You Trust The Villages? Yes I do.

:bigbow:

[fromct]

So... our doors swing inward. Is that because we are not technically in south Florida?

What does HVZ mean? I Googled it, to no avail.


explain the door situation:

Should Exterior Doors Swing In Or Out? (https://www.vividdoors.co.uk/external-doors/should-exterior-doors-swing-in-or-out)

This one shows we are in a HVHZ..........

Are You in a High Velocity Hurricane Zone? (http://www.easternarchitectural.com/blog/are-you-in-a-high-velocity-hurricane-zone)

[JoMar]

So... our doors swing inward. Is that because we are not technically in south Florida?

What does HVZ mean? I Googled it, to no avail.

Means Humans vs Zombies in the gaming world.

[manaboutown]

As I understand it the recent heavy rains have filled the holding ponds to near capacity and saturated the ground so there may be little ability to accommodate the rain a hurricane or tropical storm brings without some flooding occurring. The water delivered by Irma caused the most problems.

Since TV is well inland hopefully wind speed will be greatly diminished. Although the homes in TV are surely built to whatever the code was at their time of erection, they are constructed so rapidly I wonder about concrete curing and every little but significant construction step and feature being correctly followed. I try not to do things in a rush. The contractors are highly experienced and capable builders and the homes are pretty much cookie cutter so they are probably satisfactory.

[Bogie Shooter]

As I understand it the recent heavy rains have filled the holding ponds to near capacity and saturated the ground so there may be little ability to accommodate the rain a hurricane or tropical storm brings without some flooding occurring. The water delivered by Irma caused the most problems.

Since TV is well inland hopefully wind speed will be greatly diminished. Although the homes in TV are surely built to whatever the code was at their time of erection, they are constructed so rapidly I wonder about concrete curing and every little but significant construction step and feature being correctly followed. I try not to do things in a rush. The contractors are highly experienced and capable builders and the homes are pretty much cookie cutter so they are probably satisfactory.
What ponds have you observed that are at near capacity?

[billethkid]

For those who seem concerned that building "too fast" may = inferior construction.......what have you actually experienced to portend that is the case here in TV.

This developer has a well established routine and sequencing of progression not afforded to most developments.

How many inferior construction complaints here in TV has there ever been to warrant such an accusation?
The allegations are more urban legend like based on an unwarranted prejudice.

[twoplanekid]

Last fall, we had Romac install hurricane rated, mandated along the coast windows in several rooms. So, we feel comfortable about riding out the storm except that we have a porta potty out front because of the construction of a front patio. I told my neighbors that I am not going to ride out the hurricane in it to weigh it down.

T & D says that they will try to remove it before the storm does.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

What ponds have you observed that are at near capacity?

Paradise Lake had water rippling over the docks behind peoples' houses there.

[ColdNoMore]

What ponds have you observed that are at near capacity?

About a week ago or so, the water was just barely below the wooden path on the cart bridge on hole #17...at Tierra Del Sol.

By far, the highest I've seen it in 10 years of playing that course.

[Bogie Shooter]

Paradise Lake had water rippling over the docks behind peoples' houses there.

When??

[Bogie Shooter]

Paradise Lake had water rippling over the docks behind peoples' houses there.


About a week ago or so, the water was just barely below the wooden path on the cart bridge on hole #17...at Tierra Del Sol.

By far, the highest I've seen it in 10 years of playing that course.

When??

I agree the ponds were full. But irrigation and movement of water for ten days lowered the ponds.
The post I was questioning said the ponds have been filled to capacity. (???)

[anothersteve]

Paradise Lake had water rippling over the docks behind peoples' houses there.

At one time this was the highest it got from what I saw at Paradise. It's way down now along with the lakes at Mira Mesa, Chula Vista and Hilltop.


Steve

[coffeebean]

Last time with Irma, The Villages was able to divert a lot of the flooding and inundated their own golf courses to save the homes.

The front page of our local paper had a great article today about the water diverting system we have here in The Villages. The infrastructure was created to specifically divert water from the detention basins on to the golf courses. The system worked like a charm during and after Irma. It did what it was created to do......keep our homes safe from flooding.

Let the golfers complain about the courses being closed.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The front page of our local paper had a great article today about the water diverting system we have here in The Villages. The infrastructure was created to specifically divert water from the detention basins on to the golf courses. The system worked like a charm during and after Irma. It did what it was created to do......keep our homes safe from flooding.

Let the golfers complain about the courses being closed.

This would be great - and seems to always be great. Except the Villages have already undergone a rather long stretch of rain, and the soil is already fairly saturated from diverting the retention ponds for the past few weeks.

If they get dumped on in just a few more days, it might be more than they can handle if there's no place left for the water to go.

I wouldn't panic, but I wouldn't be in denial of the distinct possibility either. Cautious optimism seems to be the most appropriate approach at this point.

In other words - trust in the lord, but tie up your camel.

[Polar Bear]

This would be great - and seems to always be great. Except the Villages have already undergone a rather long stretch of rain, and the soil is already fairly saturated from diverting the retention ponds for the past few weeks.

If they get dumped on in just a few more days, it might be more than they can handle if there's no place left for the water to go.

I wouldn't panic, but I wouldn't be in denial of the distinct possibility either. Cautious optimism seems to be the most appropriate approach at this point.

In other words - trust in the lord, but tie up your camel.
“Cautious optimism” is very reasonable.

TV drainage system is excellent. But even the best drainage systems have a capacity which can be exceeded.

[TimeForChange]

As the hurricane approaches, I sincerely wish the best to everyone and I hope that the damages, if any are kept to a minimum.

That being said, do you guys really trust the workmanship in your homes that were built by The Villages?

I'm no construction engineer, but it seems to me that many homes here in The Villages were built quickly and I just wonder, what if the "big-one" strikes.

How will the homes hold-up?

Why do those moving from the North think all Southern construction is not up to par? Hurricane codes for construction in FL changed after Andrew. I would feel more safe in a concrete block, stucco house than one with siding but they are what they are. If you don't feel safe then get on I75 and head North.

[Martian]

Why do those moving from the North think all Southern construction is not up to par? Hurricane codes for construction in FL changed after Andrew. I would feel more safe in a concrete block, stucco house than one with siding but they are what they are. If you don't feel safe then get on I75 and head North.

Yes, and in either case why wait until a hurricane is almost here to worry about it?

That seems like looking to see if there is water in the pool AFTER jumping off the diving board.

[mulligan]

Why do those moving from the North think all Southern construction is not up to par? Hurricane codes for construction in FL changed after Andrew. I would feel more safe in a concrete block, stucco house than one with siding but they are what they are. If you don't feel safe then get on I75 and head North.

But, for your consideration, the roof system on a block home is no better in a hurricane than the roof on a frame home. The building code specs are the same.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Why do those moving from the North think all Southern construction is not up to par? Hurricane codes for construction in FL changed after Andrew. I would feel more safe in a concrete block, stucco house than one with siding but they are what they are. If you don't feel safe then get on I75 and head North.

We think this, because we live in states where there are homes built in the 1700s that are a) still standing, b) 100% liveable c) with people actually living in them. Other than modern updates to fixtures, electricity, adding water pumps and other peripherals, the structures themselves have continued to support the people living in them.

We know the value of antique construction. New construction up here isn't special, it's just new.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Yes, and in either case why wait until a hurricane is almost here to worry about it?

That seems like looking to see if there is water in the pool AFTER jumping off the diving board.

More like, they're looking to see if there's water in the pool AFTER they've decided to go to the pool that day. You expect the pool to be open and useable. And you don't know that it isn't until you show up.

People move to the Villages when they move. They have their dates for moving, and that's when they make their move. They don't expect a hurricane to decide THAT week to show up. Not even during hurricane season. If they did, no one would ever move to Florida during hurricane season.

Dismissing their concerns is just dismissive and condescending.

[collie1228]

I bought a concrete block courtyard villa, with a roof that was inspected by my insurance company's recommended inspector prior to closing to ensure that it meets the hurricane codes. It does (and it was built twenty years ago by The Villages). We went through Irma's 90+ MPH winds with no damage to the house or roof, so I'm not worried much at all. People near storm surge areas and who live in old houses (or worse, mobile homes) should worry. I don't pay any attention to the Al Roker's of the world - they seem to take too much pleasure in their gloom and doom.

[New Englander]

What ponds have you observed that are at near capacity?

You can't observe any Villages ponds if you don't live in TV or even in Florida for that matter. Maybe he has a telescope.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

You can't observe any Villages ponds if you don't live in TV or even in Florida for that matter. Maybe he has a telescope.

Actually, you can. Google Earth has been around for awhile now.

[Martian]

More like, they're looking to see if there's water in the pool AFTER they've decided to go to the pool that day. You expect the pool to be open and useable. And you don't know that it isn't until you show up.

People move to the Villages when they move. They have their dates for moving, and that's when they make their move. They don't expect a hurricane to decide THAT week to show up. Not even during hurricane season. If they did, no one would ever move to Florida during hurricane season.

Dismissing their concerns is just dismissive and condescending.

I think you misunderstood

It's like buying and moving in and then asking if there is a roof. Would you just assume there is a roof? Would you assume thre is good water? Would you assume there is anything when spending what amounts to the largest ?purchase most people make.

My point was why buy in the villages before you know what you are buying. Quality of construction was a number one concern when we were looking into purchasing. Asking after moving in if the homes are built well, seems a bit too late, whether there is a hurricane coming or not.

I don't feel that is condescending at all.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I think you misunderstood

It's like buying and moving in and then asking if there is a roof. Would you just assume there is a roof? Would you assume thre is good water? Would you assume there is anything when spending what amounts to the largest ?purchase most people make.

My point was why buy in the villages before you know what you are buying. Quality of construction was a number one concern when we were looking into purchasing. Asking after moving in if the homes are built well, seems a bit too late, whether there is a hurricane coming or not.

I don't feel that is condescending at all.

I definitely misunderstood and apologize. There are definitely things I, as a lifelong northerner, would not have even thought to ask about til after I had already decided to move to the Villages.

The lovebug issue is one - we don't have them up north, and I would never have thought to even ask about it, until reading posts here and seeing an actual infestation INSIDE one of the homes we looked at last September.

Another would be visibility in the golf cart tunnels. Until driving through one in the Villages, I didn't even know they existed, let alone wonder whether or not visibility inside them is difficult or that one's golf cart needs to be specially equipped to handle them.

The smell of the water when you get your car washed after driving through love bugs...never, ever, ever. Not ever, in a million years would I have ever thought to ask about that. And I didn't ask about it. The single-most disgusting smell, worse than when I went to summer camp and had to take my turn cleaning the latrines.

And then to find out that this is what the entire neighborhood smells like at 6AM when everyone's sprinklers go off...if I had known then - but I didn't know to ask because this kind of thing just isn't a thing in the north. It's a foreign concept to us. It's like when someone comes up north and doesn't know to ask about snow tires or all-weather radials.

[skyking]

1. What does the length of time to build the house have to do with quality?
2. I had three houses built up north. Quality builders. One or two workers would show up then delays for the next tradesman to appear. In the Villages I have never seen less than three on a site or a day without activity.
3. I trust The Villages. The better question is "Can I trust my homeowner's insurance?"

[Martian]

I definitely misunderstood and apologize. There are definitely things I, as a lifelong northerner, would not have even thought to ask about til after I had already decided to move to the Villages.

The lovebug issue is one - we don't have them up north, and I would never have thought to even ask about it, until reading posts here and seeing an actual infestation INSIDE one of the homes we looked at last September.

Another would be visibility in the golf cart tunnels. Until driving through one in the Villages, I didn't even know they existed, let alone wonder whether or not visibility inside them is difficult or that one's golf cart needs to be specially equipped to handle them.

The smell of the water when you get your car washed after driving through love bugs...never, ever, ever. Not ever, in a million years would I have ever thought to ask about that. And I didn't ask about it. The single-most disgusting smell, worse than when I went to summer camp and had to take my turn cleaning the latrines.

And then to find out that this is what the entire neighborhood smells like at 6AM when everyone's sprinklers go off...if I had known then - but I didn't know to ask because this kind of thing just isn't a thing in the north. It's a foreign concept to us. It's like when someone comes up north and doesn't know to ask about snow tires or all-weather radials.

Absolutely agree, there are things that are "obvious" (build quality) and things one can not know - you can't know what you don't know.

That is why so many take multiple trips and stay sometimes for months until they are comfortable with what they think they know before buying!

In our case we came 4 times before purchasing, each trip had a different purpose. Wife and I then had a couple long discussions and came to our conclusion. One of the conclusions was that there were still a lot of things we didn't know, and if they were bad, we would deal with them when they happened.

[CFrance]

Actually, you can. Google Earth has been around for awhile now.


According to https://www.techjunkie.com (https://www.techjunkie.com/how-often-google-earth-update/): "According to the Google Earth blog, Google Earth updates about once a month. However, this doesn't mean that every image is updated once a month – far from it. In fact, the average map data is between one and three years old"

[Polar Bear]

According to https://www.techjunkie.com (https://www.techjunkie.com/how-often-google-earth-update/): "According to the Google Earth blog, Google Earth updates about once a month. However, this doesn't mean that every image is updated once a month – far from it. In fact, the average map data is between one and three years old"
Yep. I’ve definitely seen that three-year-old-aerials thing many times for myself.

Trying to gauge TV pond level fluctuations using Google maps would not yield any meaningful results.

[Martian]

According to https://www.techjunkie.com (https://www.techjunkie.com/how-often-google-earth-update/): "According to the Google Earth blog, Google Earth updates about once a month. However, this doesn't mean that every image is updated once a month – far from it. In fact, the average map data is between one and three years old"

According to Google Earth our home that we are moving into next week is an open field with no roads or houses.

[Marathon Man]

Actually, you can. Google Earth has been around for awhile now.

Seriously? Do you believe that those are live images?

[Ben Franklin]

I've lived in Florida for over 30 years now, but much further south. I weathered many a 'cane down there, but in 2017 we had a mandatory evacuation (only 5 feet above sea level) and I evacuated to - ta da - The Villages. And now I live here. I feel much safer here, than I did 250 miles south of here.

First, in my opinion, there is no worry about a storm surge here, and secondly, by the time a 'cane gets here, from further south, it's usually a Cat 1 or less. When I had my home inspected, I did a wind mitigation inspection, and the roof is tied down to code, and I received an insurance discount. I don't know about the mobile homes, though, nor tornado codes. With all that said, any storm, given the proper angle the wind hits your home, it could cause damage.

[Bogie Shooter]

I think you misunderstood

It's like buying and moving in and then asking if there is a roof. Would you just assume there is a roof? Would you assume thre is good water? Would you assume there is anything when spending what amounts to the largest ?purchase most people make.

My point was why buy in the villages before you know what you are buying. Quality of construction was a number one concern when we were looking into purchasing. Asking after moving in if the homes are built well, seems a bit too late, whether there is a hurricane coming or
I don't feel that is condescending at all.

I agree...…………….

[Chatbrat]

Its not TV. any company is only as good as its worst employee, just hope the employees of the sub contractors who worked on your house ,really cared--then you're safe--inspectors, can't check everything--they , and I know I owned a construction company, put their faith on your integrity--in general they knew my men & I exceeded the code requirements

[eweissenbach]

The OPs original post contained a valid question, and did not seem to imply the construction was bad. The title of the thread was unfortunate IMO, seeming to imply there was reason to not trust "The Villages".

[jeriteri]

No, I don’t think this thread is pathetic at all. I feel that when you face your first hurricane you’d like to know how safe you are in your home in TV. For example, do frame houses fare ok, as compared to block ones? How about manufactured homes? What about the different ages of houses as the building codes have changed several times.

I would think a buyer in Florida would ask the seller or builder about the Hurricane protection built into the home if they are concerned. It's hard to answer that question here not knowing your home.

[Velvet]

I would think a buyer in Florida would ask the seller or builder about the Hurricane protection built into the home if they are concerned. It's hard to answer that question here not knowing your home.

I was not actually just thinking about me when I was contemplating these questions. But in general, as I have friends in TV who are interested.

My realtor (the seller had dementia) would get upset if I asked so much as how to change the electricity into my name after closing etc. preferred not to have me ask too many questions. The realtor was not representing me.

I found out the rating of my house through research myself. I appreciate you trying to answer though.

[Marathon Man]

The OPs original post contained a valid question, and did not seem to imply the construction was bad. The title of the thread was unfortunate IMO, seeming to imply there was reason to not trust "The Villages".

Yes, it did seem to imply. In fact, I believe that it did indeed imply. It certainly did not seem like a search for information.

[Velvet]

Why don’t we ask OP to just clarify what they’re looking for. To ask people do they trust where they live would have a very obvious answer. Would they be living there otherwise in the first place?

[jcvdd1]

Why don’t we ask OP to just clarify what they’re looking for. To ask people do they trust where they live would have a very obvious answer. Would they be living there otherwise in the first place?

Greetings-

I apologize for the confusion and in order to clarify my position, allow me to elaborate.

Do "I" trust The Villages?
YES and I proved my position with my cash since I'm also a homeowner in the new section of Fenney.

My concern as this storm approaches is that the homes / neighborhoods appear to pop-up almost over night.

How much quality control can be placed on each home when 100's of construction workers are responsible in building a house at such a quick pace ?

How certain can a home buyer be that each county inspector inspected each step of the construction in a prudent manner when the county employees themselves are probably short staffed ?

Although not required, the new houses have no impact windows and impact doors which surprise me, especially the large glass sliding doors.

The garage doors, especially the 2/1 appear to have minimal reinforcement which could be detrimental during a severe wind storm.

I believe that the gamble-ends of the roofing structures are not as stringently tied-down and reinforced as in only parts of the state.

I do love The Villages and strongly suggest anyone to seriously consider The Villages as residence, but I feel that The Villages are just growing so fast that one day this bubble will burst.

Good Luck to everyone...

[Bogie Shooter]

Greetings-

I apologize for the confusion and in order to clarify my position, allow me to elaborate.

Do "I" trust The Villages?
YES and I proved my position with my cash since I'm also a homeowner in the new section of Fenney.

My concern as this storm approaches is that the homes / neighborhoods appear to pop-up almost over night.

How much quality control can be placed on each home when 100's of construction workers are responsible in building a house at such a quick pace ?

How certain can a home buyer be that each county inspector inspected each step of the construction in a prudent manner when the county employees themselves are probably short staffed ?

Although not required, the new houses have no impact windows and impact doors which surprise me, especially the large glass sliding doors.

The garage doors, especially the 2/1 appear to have minimal reinforcement which could be detrimental during a severe wind storm.

I believe that the gamble-ends of the roofing structures are not as stringently tied-down and reinforced as in only parts of the state.

I do love The Villages and strongly suggest anyone to seriously consider The Villages as residence, but I feel that The Villages are just growing so fast that one day this bubble will burst.

Good Luck to everyone...
You did determine all this when you were considering moving to The Villages, right? If not, why bring it up at the first sign of a hurricane?

[Martian]

You did determine all this when you were considering moving to The Villages, right? If not, why bring it up at the first sign of a hurricane?

Exactly, This clarification seems to not change anything. You bought a house, yes, and now you are concerned you made a mistake?

It is not clear what the point is, if you are worried that the homes are being poorly made, then sell and get your money out and go where you will not question the quality would seem to be the smart thing to do.

To spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on a home, second guess the purchase and then to online and ask strangers if you did the right thing...

Maybe a better approach would be to hire a professional to evaluate YOUR home (like we did) and base your decision on that report.

hmm...

[Love2Swim]

Sometimes people are not aware they are making a mistake until something crops up to show them there is an issue. For example, we bought into the Villages assuming the home quality was good. We have been told since then, that it is variable, depending on which contractor/crew built your home. We have had several issues with our brand new home. Most were covered by warranty, but one was not.

[graciegirl]

Sometimes people are not aware they are making a mistake until something crops up to show them there is an issue. For example, we bought into the Villages assuming the home quality was good. We have been told since then, that it is variable, depending on which contractor/crew built your home. We have had several issues with our brand new home. Most were covered by warranty, but one was not.

What was not?

[Marathon Man]

Greetings-

I apologize for the confusion and in order to clarify my position, allow me to elaborate.

Do "I" trust The Villages?
YES and I proved my position with my cash since I'm also a homeowner in the new section of Fenney.

My concern as this storm approaches is that the homes / neighborhoods appear to pop-up almost over night.

How much quality control can be placed on each home when 100's of construction workers are responsible in building a house at such a quick pace ?

How certain can a home buyer be that each county inspector inspected each step of the construction in a prudent manner when the county employees themselves are probably short staffed ?

Although not required, the new houses have no impact windows and impact doors which surprise me, especially the large glass sliding doors.

The garage doors, especially the 2/1 appear to have minimal reinforcement which could be detrimental during a severe wind storm.

I believe that the gamble-ends of the roofing structures are not as stringently tied-down and reinforced as in only parts of the state.

I do love The Villages and strongly suggest anyone to seriously consider The Villages as residence, but I feel that The Villages are just growing so fast that one day this bubble will burst.

Good Luck to everyone...

We wre not confused. This is just a longer version of the original post.