June 28th is National Insurance Awareness Day and it’s a perfect time to make sure you understand the coverage that protects your biggest investment: your home.

Let’s be honest—homeowners insurance in Florida can feel especially confusing. With hurricanes, flooding, and changing requirements, it’s hard to know what’s actually covered, what’s not, and whether you’re fully protected.

To help clear things up, we teamed up with Claudia Meilan, a local insurance agent in Manatee County Florida to help answer some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners and homebuyers in Florida.

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or just want to make sure your current coverage still fits your needs, we hope this Q&A gives you the clarity and confidence you deserve.

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Homeowners Insurance and Flood Insurance premiums have increased a lot over the past couple of years for Floridians. What are the best ways to reduce home insurance costs? Are there any discounts or ways to lower my premium (wind mitigation, bundling, upgrades)?

Yes, installing hurricane shutters, upgrading your roof, and bundling your policies are all proven ways to save on your homeowners insurance in Florida. A wind mitigation inspection is especially valuable for unlocking discounts

In Florida’s risk-prone environment, some types of coverage are especially important due to the state’s unique weather and property risks. Crucial Coverages in Florida:

1. Windstorm Coverage: Hurricanes and tropical storms are common in Florida. While wind damage is sometimes included in standard policies, in high-risk areas it may be excluded or require a separate deductible.
2. Flood Insurance: Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Given Florida’s low elevation and frequent heavy rains, flood insurance is highly recommended.

But do I need flood insurance even if I’m not in a FEMA flood zone?

Even if you’re not in a FEMA-designated flood zone, Florida’s unique geography and weather make flood insurance a wise choice for most homeowners. It’s an important layer of protection that can save you from significant financial loss.

What should I look for in a policy to make sure I’m covered after a major storm or hurricane?

To ensure you’re covered after a major storm or hurricane, pay close attention to your hurricane deductible, coverage limits (especially for loss of use and roof repair), exclusions (like flood), and any special endorsements you may need.

What is the 4-point inspection, and how does it impact my ability to get insurance?

A 4-point inspection is a specialized home inspection that focuses on four key systems in a house:

1. Roof
2. Electrical system
3. Plumbing system
4. HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)

A 4-point inspection is a common requirement for older homes in Florida and can significantly impact your ability to get homeowners insurance. It’s best to arrange this inspection early in the home-buying process to avoid surprises or delays.