Florida homeowners review insurance options as hurricane season approaches

In South Florida, as hurricane season approaches in 2025, many residents are taking proactive measures to protect their homes and financial interests. Among them, Daniel Benjamin and his wife, attorney Lindsey Abbondandolo, took time to conduct what they refer to as an "insurance check-up". This initiative is particularly important given the rising threats from hurricanes, prompting homeowners to ensure their homeowners insurance policies are up-to-date and comprehensive enough to cover potential damages. The insurance landscape in Florida is experiencing notable improvements in 2025 despite having faced three hurricanes—Debby, Helene, and Milton—in the preceding year. Market experts, including Mark Friedlander of the Insurance Information Institute, emphasize that an influx of new insurers in Florida is creating a more competitive environment. This positive change is attributed primarily to legislative reforms aimed at curbing insurance fraud, particularly regarding roof claims and litigation issues, which had previously led to a constrained market. Due to these reforms, more than a dozen new companies have entered the insurance market, which is a considerable shift from previous years when options were limited. As a result, larger state-run insurers like Citizens Property Insurance are witnessing a significant decrease in their exposure, as many homeowners transition to private insurers willing to take on previously high-risk policies. Friedlander noted that Citizens has cut its exposure in the last two years by 50%, highlighting how a healthier private market is prompting new companies to recruit clients who had previously depended on Citizens for coverage. In their search for better policy options, Benjamin and Abbondandolo found themselves comparing rates and discovering insurance discounts tied to home safety features, such as having leak detectors and impact windows. It’s essential for homeowners in South Florida to also consider flood insurance to mitigate risks that can arise from rising waters, which are not typically covered by standard hurricane policies. With multiple insurers now offering competitive flood coverage, homeowners are encouraged to reassess and update their insurance before the storms of hurricane season arrive, ensuring they are adequately prepared for any eventualities that may disrupt their lives and homes.