What Florida homeowners insurance actually covers
A standard Florida HO-3 policy combines several protections under one premium. Dwelling coverage rebuilds the physical structure if it's damaged by a covered peril. Other structures covers detached items like fences, sheds and pool cages. Personal property reimburses your belongings, and loss of use pays for a hotel or rental if your home becomes uninhabitable.
On the liability side, your policy pays if a visitor is injured at your home or if you accidentally damage someone else's property, with medical payments as a smaller no-fault layer for minor guest injuries. Hurricane wind is included on virtually every Florida policy, though it usually carries a separate percentage deductible. Flood damage is never included — that's a separate NFIP or private flood policy (we write those too).
The Florida market — and how we help
Carriers have tightened underwriting across Florida: many require new roofs, 4-point inspections and wind mitigation reports. As an independent agency, we know which carriers are accepting business in your zip code and which discounts you actually qualify for — secondary water resistance credits, hip roofs, opening protection, central alarms and more. We do the carrier-hopping so you don't have to.
Smart add-ons to consider
- Water backup for sump pump or drain overflow.
- Equipment breakdown for AC, pool pumps and major appliances.
- Service line coverage for underground pipes and wires.
- Scheduled personal property for jewelry, firearms, art and collectibles.
- Umbrella liability for an extra $1M+ above your home and auto limits.
Ways to save
Bundling home and auto is the fastest way to drop your premium. Wind mitigation credits, paid-in-full discounts, alarm systems, impact windows and a clean claims history can each shave hundreds off your annual cost. We re-shop your policy every renewal so you never get auto-hiked into a bad rate.
Frequently asked questions
Is hurricane damage covered?+
Yes — wind from named storms is covered under your homeowners policy, subject to a separate hurricane deductible. Storm-surge flooding requires a flood policy.
Do I need a 4-point inspection?+
Most carriers require one if your home is older than ~30 years. We can recommend trusted local inspectors.
Can you write coastal or older homes?+
Often yes — we work with carriers that specialize in Florida coastal and older properties.