When Should I Start Shopping for Property Insurance in Florida?
Start shopping for Florida property insurance as soon as you go under contract — not the week before closing. Here is why timing matters and what to expect from the Florida insurance market.
When Should I Start Shopping for Property Insurance in Florida?
Start shopping for Florida property insurance the day you go under contract — not the week before closing.
Why Florida Insurance Requires Early Action
Florida's homeowners insurance market is one of the most challenging in the country. Many national carriers have reduced their Florida exposure or exited the state entirely. The carriers that remain are selective, and the underwriting process can take longer than buyers expect.
Specific factors that can complicate insurance on the Emerald Coast:
Roof age. Many Florida insurers will not write a new policy on a property with a roof older than 15–20 years. If the property has an aging roof, finding coverage may require multiple quotes and may result in higher premiums.
Coastal location. Properties close to the Gulf face higher wind and flood risk, which affects both availability and cost.
Property age. Older properties may require inspections before coverage can be bound.
Prior claims history. A property with multiple prior insurance claims may be difficult to insure.
What You Need to Shop For
For most Emerald Coast properties, you need at least two separate policies:
- Homeowners insurance — covers the dwelling, personal property, and liability
- Flood insurance — covers flood damage (not included in standard homeowners policies)
Some properties in high-wind areas may also need a separate windstorm policy if wind coverage is excluded from the homeowners policy.
The Shopping Process
- Contact an independent insurance agent who works with multiple carriers. Independent agents can shop your coverage across multiple companies.
- Provide property details — address, year built, roof age, square footage, construction type.
- Get multiple quotes — prices vary significantly between carriers.
- Review coverage carefully — understand what is and is not covered, deductibles (especially hurricane deductibles), and coverage limits.
- Bind coverage before closing — your lender will require proof of insurance before funding the loan.
FAQ
How long does it take to get homeowners insurance in Florida?
Simple cases can be bound in a day or two. Properties that require inspections or have complicating factors can take 1–2 weeks or longer.
Can I get insurance quotes before going under contract?
Yes. You can get preliminary quotes based on the property address before going under contract. This is a good way to understand insurance costs before making an offer.
What is a hurricane deductible?
Florida homeowners insurance policies typically have a separate, higher deductible for hurricane damage — often 2–5% of the insured value. This is different from the standard deductible.
Buying on the Emerald Coast and need guidance on insurance timing? I can connect you with insurance agents who specialize in coastal Florida properties.
— Kinsey Haddock P.A., Broker Associate | Coldwell Banker Realty — Panhandle | License #BK3253849
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Kinsey Haddock · Coldwell Banker Realty
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Written by
Kinsey Haddock P.A.Kinsey Haddock P.A. is a Broker Associate and REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Realty, specializing in coastal real estate across the entire Florida Panhandle — from St. George Island and the Forgotten Coast to Panama City Beach, Scenic Highway 30A, and Destin.