Florida Insurance Overview
Florida has unique insurance considerations due to its weather risks and regulatory environment. Understanding these requirements helps you make informed decisions about protecting your household.
Auto Insurance in Florida
State Requirements
Florida is a no-fault state. The minimum requirements are:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $10,000
- Property Damage Liability (PDL): $10,000
What This Means for You
- Your PIP covers your own medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident
- PDL covers damage you cause to other people's property
- Florida does NOT require bodily injury liability to register a vehicle
Beyond the Minimum
Florida's minimums are among the lowest in the country. Consider adding:
- Bodily Injury Liability: Protects you if you injure someone else
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Florida has a high rate of uninsured drivers
- Collision and Comprehensive: Covers your own vehicle
Homeowners Insurance in Florida
The Florida Reality
Florida homeowners face:
- Hurricane risk: Annual storm season impacts premiums
- High litigation costs: Florida leads the nation in homeowners insurance lawsuits
- Flood exposure: Much of Florida is in flood zones
What's Covered
Standard Florida homeowners policies typically cover:
- Wind and hurricane damage (usually with a separate hurricane deductible)
- Fire and smoke damage
- Theft and vandalism
- Liability protection
What's NOT Covered
- Flood damage: Requires separate flood insurance through NFIP or private insurers
- Sinkholes: May require additional coverage depending on location
- Maintenance issues: Mold, rot, and wear and tear
Hurricane Deductibles
Most Florida policies have a separate hurricane deductible, typically 2-5% of your dwelling coverage. If your home is insured for $300,000, a 2% hurricane deductible means $6,000 out of pocket for hurricane claims.
Renters Insurance in Florida
Why It Matters in Florida
Florida renters face the same weather risks as homeowners. Renters insurance covers:
- Your personal belongings (including storm damage, theft)
- Liability if someone is injured in your rental
- Additional living expenses if you're displaced
What to Consider
Given Florida's risks, ensure your renters policy includes:
- Enough personal property coverage for your belongings
- Coverage for named storms (most policies include this)
- Adequate liability limits
Florida-Specific Considerations
Flood Insurance
Floods are the most common natural disaster in the US, and Florida is particularly vulnerable. Standard policies don't cover flooding—you need separate coverage.
- NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) policies are available
- Private flood insurance may offer better rates or higher limits
- There's typically a 30-day waiting period before coverage starts
Citizens Property Insurance
If you can't find coverage in the private market, Citizens is Florida's insurer of last resort. It's not always the cheapest option, so compare with private insurers first.
Next Steps
Florida's insurance landscape is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. When you're ready to review your coverage with a licensed Florida agent, we're here to help—no pressure.