Your Florida Insurer Dropped You — Now What? A Step-by-Step Guide

Non-renewal notices have become an uncomfortable reality for Florida homeowners over the past several years. Major carriers have pulled back from coastal zip codes, older homes, and properties with recent claims history. If you've received a non-renewal notice, here's what you need to do — and fast.

Step 1: Don't Panic — But Don't Wait

A non-renewal notice gives you a deadline, typically 45–120 days before your policy expires. That's actually enough time to find a solid replacement — if you start immediately. Waiting until the week before expiration dramatically limits your options.

Step 2: Understand Why You Were Non-Renewed

Common reasons include:

Roof age (many carriers won't insure roofs over 15–20 years)
Previous claims history (especially water or wind claims)
Carrier withdrawing from certain Florida zip codes entirely
Home condition issues identified during an inspection
Credit or loss history flags

Understanding the reason helps your new agent position your risk accurately to replacement carriers.

Step 3: Contact an Independent Agent Immediately

An independent agent who represents many carriers can cast a wide net on your behalf. This is very different from a captive agent (like State Farm or Allstate agents) who can only offer their one company's products. The Tomlinson & Co independent agents at HOInsurance.com represent dozens of carriers and can find options even for hard-to-place Florida homes.

Step 4: Address Roof Issues If Possible

If your non-renewal is roof-related, getting a roof inspection (or roof replacement quote) can actually help you get coverage. Some carriers will insure an older roof if you can demonstrate it's in good condition, or if you agree to a roof escrow or surcharge.

Step 5: Consider Citizens as a Last Resort

If the private market truly has no options for you, Citizens Property Insurance Corporation exists as Florida's insurer of last resort. Coverage is available to any Florida homeowner who can't find private market coverage. However, Citizens rates can be high, and it should be considered a temporary solution while you work to improve your insurability.

The HOInsurance.com team specializes in hard-to-place Florida homes. Whether you have an older roof, a coastal location, or a recent claim, we know which carriers are most likely to work with your situation. Call us today at 800-616-1418 — don't let a non-renewal notice catch you without coverage.