Insurance coverage in Florida differs from other states. Florida is more likely to get hit by hurricanes, tornadoes and floods. Thus insuring a primary residence or vacation home in Florida tends to be more costly that you might expect. However, proper insurance coverage is necessary to speed insurance claims and to ensure your home is protected.
Florida Hurricane Protection for Your Vacation Home
All insurance companies in Florida are required to cover wind damage from a named hurricane. But some coastal properties in "windpool" areas may be excluded. Citizens Property Insurance Corp., a state nonprofit, insures against wind and hurricane damage. But as the "insurer of last resort" the state insurance scheme is more expensive than the private market. A Tampa hurricane insurance lawyer can further explain wind damage coverage options to you.
You might qualify for discounts when you make the following hurricane mitigation additions:
- Strengthening the roof by making sure the roof is anchored to the walls with hurricane straps or clips
- Installing hurricane shutters and wind resistant windows
If your home was built before 2006 you should get a wind mitigation inspection report. Making sure your credit report is clean will also ensure you get the best rate on insurance.
Florida Flood Protection for Your Vacation Home
September is the wettest month in Florida and near Jacksonville Beach 8 - 10 inches of rain recently fell causing flooded roadways, homes and businesses. Flood insurance costs extra, but is generally a good idea to keep your home protected. Keep in mind that a 30-day waiting period exists for most, if not all, new flood insurance policies.
Pay close attention to whether mold and fungus damage is covered by the policy. Mold and fungus damage is typically only covered if it is caused by a "covered peril," the failure of a water heater for example. The policy may exclude mold and fungi that come from water intrusion from a storm may, so carefully read the exclusions.
Insurance is intended to protect you in case tragedy occurs, such as a flood or hurricane, and your home is damaged or destroyed. If you have questions about the proper insurance coverage for your Florida home or have submitted a valid claim to your insurer that was improperly denied, a Florida insurance coverage attorney can work with you to get the money you need and deserve from your insurance company to compensate you for the property damage.
