A significant change is coming for more than half a million Florida homeowners insured through Citizens Property Insurance: flood insurance will soon be mandatory, even for properties outside designated flood zones. Homeowners who fail to comply risk losing their coverage.
The requirement will be phased in based on home value:
Homes valued at $600,000 or more: flood insurance required by January 1, 2024
Homes valued at $500,000 or more: by January 1, 2025
Homes valued at $400,000 or more: by January 1, 2026
All remaining homes: by January 1, 2027
Currently, policyholders with wind coverage through Citizens will need to carry a separate flood insurance policy under the new rules.
Rationale for the Mandate
According to Matt Carlucci Jr., agent with Brightway Insurance, the mandate helps protect Citizens from legal exposure when policyholders suffer flood damage not covered under standard wind or homeowners’ policies.
“It can be frustrating when an insurance company requires something,” Carlucci said. “But could it still be a good idea?” He noted that the move may also be part of Citizens’ broader strategy to encourage some homeowners to transition to private insurers without the same requirements.
Why Flood Coverage Matters
Carlucci highlighted that most recent flood claims in Florida occurred outside traditional high-risk zones, making coverage advisable for all homeowners.
“We recommend everybody get it,” he said. “We’ve seen too many claims in Florida — and other states — where flood losses happened in non-flood zones.”
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