Florida home insurance, without the runaround.

Hurricane exposure, the cost of reinsurance that Florida insurers buy, past litigation costs and older roofs all push prices up. Where you live, your roof's age and your home's wind protection have the biggest effect on what you pay.

Often, yes. Citizens is Florida's state-backed insurer of last resort, and private companies regularly offer to take over Citizens policies. A licensed agent can check whether a private carrier will cover your home and compare it with what you have.

It can. Florida insurers must offer discounts for features like roof straps, impact-rated windows and shutters. A wind mitigation inspection documents those features so you get credit for them.

Start shopping right away so there's no gap in coverage, especially if you have a mortgage. Choose “Got a non-renewal or cancellation notice” in the form and an agent will prioritize your request.