Can You Buy Hurricane Insurance in Florida?

Florida’s geography makes it susceptible to hurricanes, prompting homeowners to seek clarity on insurance coverage. This article clarifies how hurricane damage is addressed by Florida insurance policies, detailing coverage structure and factors influencing cost.

Availability of Coverage

Homeowners in Florida typically find coverage for hurricane-related wind damage integrated into their standard homeowners’ insurance policies. A separate “hurricane insurance” policy is not usually purchased. However, for properties in high-risk coastal regions, standard policies might exclude wind damage. In these cases, homeowners need a separate “wind-only” policy.

The Florida insurance market includes private insurers and Citizens Property Insurance Corporation. Citizens operates as the state-backed insurer of last resort for those unable to obtain private market coverage. It offers wind-only policies, especially where private insurers are reluctant. State law requires insurers to offer windstorm coverage, though policyholders can exclude it with a written statement. Mortgage lenders often require it, as opting out makes the homeowner financially responsible for windstorm damage.

Key Coverage Elements

“Hurricane insurance” primarily covers damage from high winds and hail associated with a hurricane or tropical storm. This coverage extends to the dwelling, other structures like garages, and personal belongings. If a home becomes uninhabitable due to wind damage, the policy may also cover additional living expenses, such as temporary housing and increased food costs.

Standard hurricane or homeowners’ policies do not cover flood damage from storm surge or heavy rains. A separate flood insurance policy, often from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers, is necessary for flood protection. Hurricane deductibles differ from standard deductibles; they are typically percentage-based (2% to 10% of the home’s insured value), not a fixed dollar amount. For example, a home insured for $300,000 with a 2% hurricane deductible means the policyholder is responsible for the first $6,000 in covered damages.

Factors Affecting Premiums

Several factors influence the cost of hurricane insurance premiums in Florida. The geographical location of a property significantly impacts rates, with homes closer to the coast or in high-risk “wind-pool areas” generally facing higher premiums due to increased exposure to hurricane forces. The age and construction type of the home also play a substantial role; newer homes built to current wind codes, or those constructed with resilient materials like concrete block, may qualify for lower premiums compared to older wood-frame structures.

The presence of wind mitigation features is another significant determinant of premium costs. Improvements such as hurricane shutters, reinforced garage doors, roof-to-wall attachments, and impact-resistant windows can lead to notable discounts on premiums. These features demonstrate a home’s enhanced ability to withstand hurricane-force winds, reducing the insurer’s risk. Furthermore, the chosen deductible amount directly affects the premium; selecting a higher percentage-based hurricane deductible can lower the annual premium, though it increases the out-of-pocket expense in the event of a claim. A property’s claims history can also influence premiums, with a history of frequent claims potentially leading to higher rates.

Securing a Policy

Purchasing hurricane insurance in Florida involves several practical steps to ensure adequate protection. Homeowners can seek coverage through various channels, including independent insurance agents who work with multiple carriers, captive agents representing a single company, or directly with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation if private market options are limited. Obtaining multiple quotes is advisable to compare coverage options and premiums from different providers.

The application process typically requires detailed information about the property. This often includes property specifications, such as the year of construction, square footage, and construction materials. Insurers may also require specific inspections, like a four-point inspection, which assesses the condition of the roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. A wind mitigation report, detailing any hurricane-resistant features of the home, can also be submitted to qualify for potential premium discounts. Providing accurate documentation and completing necessary inspections streamlines the underwriting process and helps secure appropriate coverage.

The Claims Process

Filing a hurricane damage claim requires prompt and systematic action following a storm. The immediate priority after a hurricane passes is ensuring personal safety and the safety of family members. Once it is safe to do so, homeowners should thoroughly document all damage to the property using photographs and videos, capturing both interior and exterior impacts before any temporary repairs are made. This visual evidence is important for substantiating the claim.

The next step involves contacting the insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and initiate the claims process. The insurer will typically assign an insurance adjuster to assess the damage and determine the scope of covered losses. Policyholders should be prepared to provide the adjuster with their documentation, including photos, videos, and any records of temporary repairs. Understanding the claim settlement process involves reviewing the adjuster’s report and the insurer’s offer, which will factor in the policy’s deductible and coverage limits, before receiving payment for covered repairs.