Sunshine, beaches, warmer weather, a new job…Whatever your reason for relocating to Florida, eventually you’ll have insurance questions. That’s where we’d love to help.

 

Insurance is regulated at a state level, so each state has it’s own rules, requirements, and nuances.

 

Both Florida homeowners and auto policies have their own set of unique coverages and limitations, so it’s important you spend time talking with an agent about the differences and options.

 

One of the biggest homeowners differences, for example, is “Guaranteed Replacement Cost” coverage. Many states have “Guaranteed Replacement Cost” coverage on their home policies. Meaning the insurance company would pay the actual cost to rebuild even if you didn’t have enough listed on the policy. Florida companies previously offered that coverage, but Hurricane Andrew messed that up for all of us. Companies went broke, and “Guaranteed Replacement Cost” coverage went with them. Most carriers now offer an optional coverage which is somewhat similar, but your agent needs to discuss that and many other optional coverages with you. Knowing what is not included in the ‘basic’ homeowners policy (and how to cover what you need) is more important than knowing what is included.

 

Auto insurance has it’s quirks as well. Stacking uninsured motorist coverage, “No Fault” Personal Injury Protection coverage, windshield damage covered without having to pay your comprehensive deductible, are just a few of the typical differences that come to mind. Moving is a perfect time to review your coverages, and levels of coverage, with an agent to make sure they are appropriate and to help you understand the differences between your prior state’s coverage and the Florida coverage.

 

The order of transferring your vehicle insurance, registration, tag, etc is important as well. When you move, you’re supposed to have your vehicle registered in your new state soon after moving. In Florida, you need to get a Florida tag/registration within 10 days of taking up residence, starting a job, or putting children in public school. In order to register your vehicle, there are several steps, one of which is providing valid proof of FLORIDA insurance. You should set up your Florida insurance just before, but not too long before, going to title your vehicle in Florida. The State insurance systems don’t talk to each other, so if you get Florida insurance, but still have an out of state tag, your former state may think you’re driving without insurance. If you go too long, they may impose a fine or even suspend your license. The best practice is to get the Florida auto insurance in place effective the same week as you go to get your new driver license, tag, and registration. For more information please visit the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles page.

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Give us a call (or text) at 850-329-6996 and we can help you understand and navigate the process of getting your new Florida auto insurance in place.