Short answer: in South Florida, homeowners insurance can be one of the largest parts of your monthly cost, and it varies a lot from house to house. The age and condition of the roof, wind mitigation features like impact windows and roof straps, and distance to the coast drive the premium. Get a real quote before you make an offer, not after.
What drives the premium
- Roof age and condition. Many insurers look closely at older roofs and may require an inspection or limit coverage.
- Wind mitigation. Impact-rated windows and doors or shutters, roof-to-wall connections and roof deck attachment can earn meaningful discounts.
- Location. Proximity to the coast and the property's wind zone affect the wind portion of the premium.
- Age of the plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems, which is why insurers often ask for a four-point inspection on older homes.
- Flood, which is a separate policy. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.
The wind mitigation inspection
A wind mitigation inspection documents the features that help a home resist hurricane winds. Insurers use it to apply discounts, so ask the seller for a recent report or order one during your inspection period. It is usually inexpensive compared with what it can save.
My Safe Florida Home
Florida's My Safe Florida Home program offers free wind mitigation inspections to eligible owners of site-built, single-family homes with a homestead exemption, and has offered matching grants (the state pays $2 for every $1 from the homeowner, up to $10,000) for upgrades such as impact openings and roof improvements on homes built before 2008. Grant funding depends on legislative appropriations and opens in phases, so check mysafeflhome.com for current status after you buy.
Condo buyers
In a condo, the association insures the building and you insure the interior and your belongings with a unit owner policy. Ask what the master policy covers, its deductible, and whether recent premium increases are already reflected in the association budget.
A simple order of operations
- Ask the seller for the current premium, the roof age, and any wind mitigation or four-point reports.
- Get at least one binding quote during your inspection period.
- Add homeowners, flood (if needed) and any association fees to your monthly budget before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
Why is homeowners insurance so expensive in South Florida?
Hurricane and wind risk, coastal exposure and rebuilding costs drive premiums. Roof age and wind mitigation features make a large difference from one home to the next.
What is a wind mitigation inspection?
An inspection that documents a home's hurricane-resistant features, such as impact windows and roof attachments. Insurers use it to apply premium discounts.
Does homeowners insurance cover flooding in Florida?
No. Flood damage requires a separate flood insurance policy, which a lender will require if the home is in a high-risk FEMA flood zone.
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details with your agent, lender, attorney or insurer.