Homeowners Insurance in Florida – FAQs

Manchester Insurance – Serving the Treasure Coast & All of Florida

Protecting your home in Florida means understanding more than just your policy. Our state faces unique weather, building codes, and insurance regulations, so we built this FAQ page to help make things clearer — and to give you confidence as you choose coverage that fits your family.

Below are the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Jensen Beach, Palm City, Hobe Sound, Vero Beach, and communities across Florida.

1. What does a typical homeowners insurance policy cover?

Most homeowners policies in Florida include four core protections:

  • Dwelling Coverage – Protects the structure of your home.

  • Other Structures – Covers items like fences, garages, and sheds.

  • Personal Property – Helps replace belongings such as furniture, electronics, and clothing.

  • Liability Protection – Helps protect you financially if someone is injured on your property.

Every carrier and policy is different, so we review coverage options with you to help ensure your home is properly insured based on its age, construction, and location.

2. Why are Florida home insurance rates so high?

Florida is uniquely exposed to:

  • Hurricanes

  • Windstorms

  • Roof-related claims

  • Rising building costs

Because of this, insurance companies price risk differently here than in most states. As an independent agency with access to 40+ carriers, we shop the market for competitive options tailored to your home, not a one-size-fits-all quote.

3. Does homeowners insurance include flood coverage?

No — flood insurance is separate from homeowners insurance.

Even homes outside designated flood zones experience flooding in Florida. We offer both NFIP (FEMA) and private flood insurance options so you can choose a plan that fits your risk level and budget.

4. How does the age and condition of my roof affect my rate?

Your roof is one of the biggest rating factors in Florida. Carriers often review:

  • Roof age

  • Roofing material (shingle, metal, tile)

  • Wind mitigation features

  • Permit history

Newer roofs and documented wind-resistant features may lower your premium. Sharing wind mitigation reports or roof permits with us helps us find the best options.

5. What is a wind mitigation inspection, and do I need one?

A wind mitigation inspection identifies features that help protect your home in strong winds — things like hurricane clips, impact windows, reinforced roof decking, or updated shingles.

Most carriers offer significant discounts for homes with these features. If you haven’t had an inspection in a while, it may be worth updating.

6. Can you insure homes used as rentals or second homes?

Yes. We write policies for:

  • Primary residences

  • Seasonal or secondary homes

  • Long-term rental properties

  • Short-term rentals (depending on carrier guidelines)

The type of property you own will determine the policy structure, which we go over with you during the quoting process.

7. How can I lower my homeowners insurance premium?

There are several ways to help reduce your premium, including:

  • Updating or replacing your roof

  • Completing a wind mitigation inspection

  • Bundling your home + auto insurance

  • Installing a monitored security system

  • Updating plumbing, electrical, or HVAC

  • Adjusting deductibles if appropriate for your needs

We help you review these options so you’re balancing savings with proper protection.

8. Are my valuables covered under a standard policy?

Policies include limits on items such as:

  • Jewelry

  • Fine art

  • Firearms

  • Collectibles

If you have high-value belongings, we can add scheduled personal property to help ensure they’re properly insured.

9. How quickly can I get a quote?

Many quotes are available the same day. Homes with certain underwriting requirements — such as older roofs or coastal locations — may take longer. We keep you updated throughout the process and handle all carrier communication.

10. Why choose Manchester Insurance for homeowners coverage?

As an independent agency based on the Treasure Coast, we represent 40+ insurance carriers and focus on matching each client with coverage that fits their home, not a generic policy. We take the time to explain your options, review discounts, and give you the information you need to make a confident decision.

Our goal is simple: protect your home with coverage that makes sense for Florida living.

Ready for a Quote?

Whether you’re buying a new home or reviewing your current policy, we’re here to help.
Call us or request a quote online, and one of our licensed agents will reach out with options tailored to your property.

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