Question 1

Why is Florida home insurance so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Florida's high home insurance premiums are driven by several factors: the state's vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms, historically high rates of insurance litigation and fraud, expensive reinsurance costs, and the geographic challenges of insuring coastal properties. However, 2022 and 2023 legislative reforms have significantly reduced litigation abuse, and the market is stabilizing. Many homeowners are now finding lower rates than they paid 2–3 years ago.

Question 2

Does home insurance in Florida cover hurricane damage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most standard Florida homeowners insurance policies (HO-3) cover windstorm damage from hurricanes. However, most policies have a separate hurricane deductible — typically 2% to 5% of your home's insured value — that applies specifically to hurricane damage. This is separate from your regular all-peril deductible. Importantly, standard home insurance does NOT cover flooding, even from a hurricane. Flood insurance must be purchased separately.

Question 3

Do I need flood insurance in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage. If you live in a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), your mortgage lender will require flood insurance. Even outside flood zones, flooding can occur — about 20% of flood claims come from properties outside high-risk areas. Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private carriers, and typically costs $500–$2,000 per year depending on your flood risk.

Question 4

What is Citizens Insurance and should I switch?

Accepted Answer

Citizens Property Insurance Corporation is Florida's state-backed insurer of last resort, created to provide coverage when private carriers won't. While Citizens provides an important safety net, it is often more expensive than private alternatives and has been actively working to reduce its policy count. If you're currently with Citizens, there's a good chance you can find comparable or better coverage at a lower price through a private carrier. We can compare Citizens rates against private alternatives for you at no cost.

Question 5

How does my roof age affect my home insurance in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Your roof is one of the most critical factors in Florida home insurance. Many carriers will not insure homes with roofs older than 15–20 years, or will charge significantly higher premiums. A new roof can reduce your annual premium by 20–40%. If your roof is approaching 15 years old, you should consider replacement before your next renewal. The type of roofing material also matters — metal roofs often qualify for the best rates.

Question 6

What is a wind mitigation inspection and is it worth it?

Accepted Answer

A wind mitigation inspection is an assessment of your home's ability to withstand high winds. A licensed inspector evaluates features like roof shape, roof covering, roof deck attachment, roof-to-wall connections, opening protection (shutters or impact windows), and wall construction. If your home has wind-resistant features, you can receive significant discounts on your windstorm premium — often $300–$1,000 per year. The inspection typically costs $75–$150 and pays for itself in the first year.

Question 7

How often should I shop my Florida home insurance?

Accepted Answer

We recommend shopping your home insurance every year at renewal. The Florida insurance market changes frequently, with carriers adjusting rates and entering or exiting the market. Even if you're happy with your current carrier, comparing rates annually ensures you're not overpaying. Many Florida homeowners who haven't shopped their policy in 2–3 years are surprised to find they can save $500–$1,500 per year by switching.

Question 8

What auto insurance is required in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Florida law requires all registered vehicle owners to carry: (1) Personal Injury Protection (PIP): minimum $10,000 — covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages regardless of fault; (2) Property Damage Liability (PDL): minimum $10,000 — covers damage you cause to others' property. Florida does NOT require bodily injury liability (BI) coverage, though it is strongly recommended. Driving without required coverage can result in license suspension, fines, and reinstatement fees.

Question 9

Why is Florida auto insurance so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Florida has some of the highest auto insurance rates in the nation due to: a high rate of uninsured drivers (approximately 26%), frequent insurance fraud and staged accidents, high population density in urban areas, hurricane and weather-related claims, and the no-fault PIP system which has historically been subject to fraud. Working with an independent agent to compare multiple carriers is the most effective way to find the best rate.

Question 10

What happens if I'm hit by an uninsured driver in Florida?

Accepted Answer

If you're hit by an uninsured driver in Florida, your PIP coverage will pay for your medical expenses up to your policy limit. For property damage, you would need collision coverage to repair your vehicle. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage provides additional protection for bodily injury caused by uninsured drivers. Given that 26% of Florida drivers are uninsured, UM coverage is strongly recommended.

Question 11

How much life insurance do I need in Florida?

Accepted Answer

A common starting point is 10–12 times your annual income, but the right amount depends on your specific situation. Consider: your mortgage balance and other debts, number and ages of dependents, your spouse's income, years until your children are financially independent, and your family's ongoing living expenses. A licensed agent can help you calculate the right amount based on your specific circumstances.

Question 12

What's the difference between term and whole life insurance?

Accepted Answer

Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period (10, 20, or 30 years) at a fixed premium. It's the most affordable option and is ideal for most working-age adults. Whole life insurance provides permanent coverage with a cash value component that grows over time — it's significantly more expensive but can serve estate planning purposes. For most Florida families, term life insurance provides the best value for protecting against income loss.

Question 13

Can I get life insurance without a medical exam in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many carriers offer simplified issue or guaranteed issue life insurance that doesn't require a medical exam. Simplified issue policies typically ask health questions but don't require a physical exam, and can provide coverage up to $500,000. Guaranteed issue policies require no health questions but have lower coverage limits and higher premiums. For healthy individuals, a fully underwritten policy (which may require an exam) typically offers the most competitive rates.

Question 14

Is there a cost to get a quote from Tueri Insurance Agency?

Accepted Answer

No, our quotes are completely free and there is no obligation to purchase. As an independent insurance agency, we are compensated by the insurance carriers — not by you. This means you get access to our expertise and market comparison at no cost.

Question 15

How quickly can I get covered?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, we can bind coverage the same day you request a quote. For standard home insurance, coverage can typically be effective within 24 hours. Auto insurance can often be bound immediately. Life insurance may take 1–4 weeks depending on the underwriting process.

Question 16

What areas of Florida do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve all of Florida, including Volusia, Flagler, Orange, Seminole, Hillsborough, Orange, Pinellas, Duval, Sarasota, Collier, Lee, and all other Florida counties. We are licensed to write insurance throughout the entire state of Florida.

Question 17

How do I file a claim?

Accepted Answer

If you need to file a claim, contact your insurance carrier directly using the claims number on your policy documents. As your independent agent, we can also assist you through the claims process, help you understand your coverage, and advocate on your behalf if needed. We're here to support you beyond just the initial sale.

Florida Insurance FAQ

Florida Home Insurance

Florida Auto Insurance

Life Insurance

Working With Tueri Insurance Agency

Still Have Questions?