Homeowners Insurance

In Florida, where hurricanes and storms are a reality, homeowners insurance is an essential way to safeguard your property and finances.

What is Homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection against unexpected losses. A standard policy covers both:

• Property protection: the home itself and the belongings inside.

• Liability protection: your legal responsibility if someone is injured on your property or if you, your family members, or even your pets cause damage to others.

It’s a package policy, meaning it combines these protections in one.

What is Covered?

Most homeowners policies protect against:

• Fire and smoke damage

• Windstorms and hurricanes (important in Florida)

• Theft and vandalism

• Liability and medical payments for guests

What is not Covered?

Not every disaster is included in a standard policy. The biggest exclusions are:

• Floods: Requires a separate flood insurance policy (essential for Florida).

• Earthquakes: Covered only under a separate policy.

• Maintenance issues: Routine upkeep and wear-and-tear are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Why do you need homeowners insurance?

Your home is likely one of your largest investments. Insurance helps protect you financially when the unexpected happens:

• Rebuild or repair after a fire or natural disaster.

• Replace belongings lost to theft or vandalism.

• Cover medical expenses or liability costs if a guest is injured.

• Satisfy your lender’s requirement if you have a mortgage.

Remember: homeowners insurance is designed for unexpected events, not routine maintenance.

Questions to Ask Your Agent

Before choosing a policy, discuss these key points with your agent:

1. Rebuilding costs: How much would it cost to rebuild my home and replace my belongings?

2. Company reputation: Does the insurer handle claims fairly and promptly?

3. Discounts: Are there savings for bundling policies, having a security system, or hurricane-resistant features?

4. Claims process: Who do I contact, and what happens after I file a claim?