Florida has a long coastline and a year-round hurricane season, making homeowners insurance one of the most important investments you can make. Whether you're new to the state or have been living here for years, it's essential to understand how to protect your home and your family with an effective homeowners insurance policy.
Florida home insurance policies average $1,981 for $250,000 in dwelling coverage. That's about 39 percent above the national average $1,428. Getting quotes is the best way to compare prices and find an affordable policy that will protect your home and belongings.
You can find the perfect policy by choosing an insurance company in Florida that offers excellent coverage and great customer service. J.D. Power tend to be more financially stable and provide excellent customer service, which can save you money in the long run.
Check for discounts
Florida home insurance companies provide discounts that can reduce your premiums. You can get discounts by being a new customer, buying a new home, or installing hurricane protection on your house.
Increase your credit score
Your credit score has a significant impact on your rate, so improving it is an easy way to lower your premiums. By paying your credit card bills on time and by avoiding high debts, you can improve your credit rating.
Consider bundling your policies
Some Florida home insurance companies will offer a discount for insuring your auto and home with them, which can be a huge savings over the course of a year. It will also reduce the windstorm portion of homeowner's insurance, as a bundle may lower your deductible.
Add protection devices to your home
Adding a deadbolt, smoke alarm, or burglar alarm can reduce your insurance rates because they lower your risk of theft and fire. If you live in an area where burglaries occur frequently, it's important to take these precautions.
Fortify your home against hurricanes
Have your roof and siding inspected by an expert in wind mitigation. A qualified professional can offer advice on how you can lower your homeowners insurance rates by strengthening the wind defenses of your house.
Get a free quote!
Liberty Mutual is a top-rated national insurer with more than 100 years of experience and an A+ rating from AM Best. This is one of our top picks for Florida home insurance because of its excellent customer service and wide range of coverage options. It also offers a variety of discounts to help you save money.
Keep in mind that not all Florida home insurance companies will offer all of these discounts and it's important to check with each company to ensure you're receiving the maximum benefit from them.
Florida's average cost for homeowners insurance may not be bad, but it is higher than the national standard and should still be taken seriously. Tower Hill has some of the cheapest Florida home insurers, while Citizens' rates are higher for homeowners who have dangerous dog types.