What questions should Florida homeowners ask before buying a policy?

Florida's insurance market has unique risks and regulations that make it different from almost every other state. Before you sign a policy, asking the right questions can protect you from coverage gaps, surprise deductibles, and claims headaches. Here are the questions every Florida homeowner should ask.

About coverage and deductibles

• What is my hurricane deductible, and how is it calculated? Florida policies typically carry a separate hurricane deductible expressed as a percentage—often 2 to 5 percent of your dwelling limit. On a $500,000 home, that is $10,000 to $25,000 out of pocket.
• Does this policy cover water damage from wind-driven rain? Some policies exclude interior water damage unless an opening was created by wind. Understand where the line is drawn.
• Is flood damage included? It is not. Standard homeowners policies in Florida do not cover flood. You need a separate flood policy.
• What is the roof coverage—replacement cost or actual cash value? Some Florida carriers have shifted to ACV for roofs over a certain age, which can drastically reduce your payout.

About the carrier

• Is this company financially stable? Check the carrier's AM Best rating. Several Florida-only insurers have gone insolvent in recent years.
• Is this a Citizens policy? Citizens Property Insurance is Florida's insurer of last resort. It provides coverage when private carriers will not, but it comes with assessments that can be levied on all Florida policyholders after major storms.
• What happens if the carrier drops my policy or leaves the state? Ask how much notice you will receive and what transition options exist.

About discounts and mitigation

• Have I received all available wind-mitigation discounts? A wind-mitigation inspection documents features like roof shape, attachment type, and opening protection. The resulting discounts can be substantial.
• Does my roof age qualify me for full replacement cost coverage? Some carriers require a roof inspection for homes with roofs over 15 years old before offering replacement cost coverage.

What Truscott recommends

Florida homeowners cannot afford to skip these questions. A Truscott policy checkup puts every one of them on the table, compares your answers across available carriers, and makes sure you are not overpaying or underprotected. Request a coverage review before your next purchase or renewal—your future self will thank you.