Question 1

Does home insurance in Homestead cover hurricane damage?

Accepted Answer

Most Florida homeowners policies include windstorm coverage for hurricane wind damage, but you'll face a separate hurricane deductible (typically 2-10% of your dwelling coverage). Critically, standard policies don't cover flood damage from storm surge or heavy rain—you need separate flood insurance for that protection, which is essential in hurricane-prone Homestead.

Question 2

Why is home insurance so expensive in Homestead, Florida?

Accepted Answer

Homestead sits in one of the highest hurricane-risk zones in the United States and was the epicenter of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, which caused over $25 billion in insured losses. This history, combined with direct hurricane exposure and catastrophic loss potential, makes insurers charge significantly higher premiums than most other U.S. locations. Average costs run $8,617-$22,398 annually depending on home value.

Question 3

What is Citizens Property Insurance and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Citizens Property Insurance is Florida's state-run insurer of last resort, created after Hurricane Andrew when private insurers left the market. You typically only use Citizens if you can't find coverage in the private market. Good news for 2025: Citizens is reducing rates by 5.6% and many homeowners are moving back to private insurers as the market stabilizes and more companies return to Florida.

Question 4

How can I lower my home insurance costs in Homestead?

Accepted Answer

The biggest savings come from hurricane-resistant upgrades like impact windows, reinforced roofing, and storm shutters, which can reduce premiums by 20-40%. Other strategies include raising your standard deductible, bundling policies, installing security systems, and ensuring your insurer knows about any post-Andrew construction that meets stronger building codes.

Question 5

Do I need flood insurance if I don't live in a flood zone?

Accepted Answer

In Homestead, flood insurance is strongly recommended even outside designated flood zones. Hurricane Andrew brought 23-foot storm surges, and heavy rainfall from hurricanes can cause flooding anywhere. Standard homeowners policies never cover flood damage from any source, and about 25% of flood claims come from outside high-risk flood zones. The coverage is relatively affordable outside flood zones and provides critical protection.

Question 6

Are there special insurance considerations for agricultural properties in Homestead?

Accepted Answer

Yes, agricultural properties often need additional coverage beyond standard homeowners insurance for barns, equipment storage, greenhouses, and farm liability. Standard policies typically only cover detached structures up to 10% of dwelling coverage, which may be insufficient. Agricultural landowners can benefit from the Greenbelt Law for property tax relief, though this requires annual renewal of agricultural designation.

Insurance Agents in Homestead, Florida (FL)

Insurance agencies serving Homestead

DTRT Insurance Group, Inc.

Just Insurance Svcs

Insurance Agents in Homestead, Florida (FL)

Insurance agencies serving Homestead

DTRT Insurance Group, Inc.

Just Insurance Svcs

Lismey Insurance

Martinez Insurance Agency

Ocean Trust Insurance

Peoples Insurance Agency

Vital Health Insurance

YG Insurance Solutions Corp

Insurance Guides for Homestead

Home Insurance in Homestead

Auto Insurance in Homestead

Insurance Guide for Homestead

Car Insurance Costs in Homestead

Frequently asked questions