Having a homeowner’s insurance policy is not only a smart investment, it’s usually a requirement of lending companies. Even if you own your residence outright, it’s important to remember your home is one of the most important assets any family has, and you certainly want to protect yours.
There are many perils that can be covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy in Florida, among them:
Having a homeowner’s insurance policy means that you have coverage in case a disaster should strike your home or personal property. Should someone get injured or suffer an accident on your property, your policy can pay out whenever you are held responsible. Also, most policies cover damage due to wind, hail, or fire.
However, you should consider adding flood insurance, particularly if you live in a coastal area in Florida or in an area where flooding is common. As is the case with homeowner’s insurance, if you’re in a flood zone, the bank will require a flood policy. Click here to find out more on how to protect your most valuable asset.
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What is homeowner’s Insurance?
Homeowner’s insurance is a policy meant to cover the damage or destruction of your home or personal belongings caused by an event. In certain circumstances, it will also cover you if someone is injured on your property or if they cause damage to the property. Its main functions are:
- To repair the home, yard, or other structures on your property.
- To replace or repair personal belongings.
- To cover your living expenses if you are forced to move elsewhere while your home is being repaired.
- To provide personal liability should you be held legally responsible for injury or damage to someone else.
Am I Obligated to have Homeowner’s Insurance?
The law does not require that you carry homeowner’s insurance. If you have a mortgage, your lender will require it to protect their investment. However, even in cases where there is no mortgage, it is a wise decision to have a policy. Having property and liability coverage is a financial safety net that may come in handy when you need it most.
What hazards are covered in a homeowner’s insurance policy in Florida?
There are many perils that can be covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy in Florida, among them:
- Damage from vehicles
- Theft
- Vandalism not committed by the insured
- Wind
- Hail
- Falling objects
- Smoke
- Fire
- Lightning
- Power surges
- Explosions
- Civil unrest
What is not Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?
Normal wear and tear of a property will not be covered by this policy or any damage that has been caused intentionally. You may also discover that it does not cover:
- Floods, including sewer backup
- Some natural disasters such as sinkholes, landslides, or earthquakes
- Power failures
- Infestations by mold, fungus, vermin, or birds
- Government actions such as war
- Nuclear hazards
- Acts of God
You may purchase separate coverage for floods, mold, or windstorms. Ask your insurer if you are worried about a particular event or situation and add the coverage you need.
What Factors can Impact the Cost of Homeowner’s Insurance in Florida?
You may be worried about the cost of a homeowner’s insurance policy and whether there are any factors that might contribute to its costs. If so, here are some items that may play a role in how much you would pay for a policy:
- The location and age of your home
- The value of the property
- The type of construction your home has
- Your credit scores
- Your claim history
- The type of coverage you are interested in
- The limits of the policy
- Whether you will be adding protection like flood or windstorm
