Buying a home in Fort Lauderdale is exciting. Whether you’re relocating from another state or purchasing your first Florida property, homeowners insurance is one of the most important parts of protecting your investment. Afterall, your home is usually your highest valued asset.
One of the biggest surprises for new Florida homeowners is learning that homeowners insurance doesn’t cover everything.
What Does Florida Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover?
Most homeowners insurance policies help protect against:
Fire and smoke damage
Wind damage from many storms
Theft and vandalism
Liability claims
Damage to personal belongings
Additional living expenses after a covered loss
Coverage varies by carrier and policy, so reviewing your specific protection is important.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Hurricanes?
This is one of the most common insurance coverage questions we receive at Barefoot Insurance Brokers.
In many cases, wind damage caused by hurricanes may be covered under your homeowners policy. However, Florida policies often include a separate hurricane deductible that works differently than a standard deductible on your home insurance policy.
Understanding this deductible before hurricane season can help prevent surprises during a claim.
Is Flood Insurance Included in your homeowner’s insurance policy?
Usually not.
Most homeowners insurance policies in Florida do not cover flood damage caused by rising water, storm surge, heavy rainfall, or overflowing canals and drainage systems.
Many Florida homeowners choose separate private market or NFIP flood insurance to help fill this gap.
What About Roof Damage?
Roof damage may be covered when caused by a covered event, such as certain windstorms.
However, roof age, condition, and maintenance history can affect how coverage applies and what insurance options are available.
Questions Every New Florida Homeowner Should Ask
Before closing on a Florida home and buying Florida Homeowner’s Insurance, consider asking your broker:
What is my hurricane deductible?
Is flood insurance recommended?
Does my roof qualify for insurance discounts?
Are wind mitigation credits available?
Do I have enough coverage to rebuild my home?
Helping Florida Homeowners Understand Their Coverage
Whether you’re moving to Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Palm Bay, Melbourne, Port St. Lucie, Jacksonville, or anywhere else in Florida, understanding your homeowners insurance before you need it can make a significant difference.
Kassy helps Florida homeowners review their coverage options, identify potential gaps, and better understand how their policy works before hurricane season arrives.
About the Author
Kassandra “Kassy” Mendez is a Licensed Independent Insurance Agent with Barefoot Insurance Brokers, bringing years of industry experience in personal lines coverage to Florida homeowners and families. Her areas of expertise include flood insurance, homeowners insurance, high-valued and coastal home insurance, wind-only coverage, personal umbrella policies, and auto insurance throughout Florida. Kassandra Mendez is known for helping her insurance clients navigate complex risk exposures with clarity and confidence. You can reach Kassy Mendez directly at kassy@barefootins.com or call/text 754-233-0637 to discuss your insurance needs.
👣 Go Barefoot All Year Long.