Florida Property Insurance
Windstorm and Flood Protection

Florida property insurance must include hurricane protection. Strong winds, driving rains and storm surge can cause destruction. To protect you against loss you will need wind and flood insurance in addition to homeowners insurance.

Flood insurance is not covered by your homeowners policy. It is covered through government's program. Florida consumers can purchase flood insurance for up to $250,000 for dwelling damage, and $100,000 for personal contents. The cost of this insurance depends on how close you live to the coastal zone and the elevation of your house.

Wind insurance may or may not be included in your homeowners policy. Where excluded, it can be purchased through Citizens Insurance. Citizens is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt government corporation whose public purpose is to provide insurance protection to Florida property owners throughout the state.

The variables that affect the cost of your wind insurance are: the deductible, age of the house, impact windows or shutter discounts, roof structure and location. If your home is insured for $750,000 or more, Citizens' requires full hurricane shutter protection.

Check with your insurance agent to determine the rates before you make an offer on the home.

The state's website provides a lot of information about Florida Property Insurance. (opens in a new window).

They also publish a consumer guide. Download the Guide.