Homeowner's Insurance Policy Review Checklist

1. Coverage Limits

Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A) Confirms the limit reflects current rebuild cost — not market value. Get a replacement cost estimate if unsure. Florida construction costs have increased 20–30% since 2020.

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value Replacement Cost (RCV) pays to rebuild at today's prices. Actual Cash Value (ACV) deducts depreciation — you could receive thousands less per claim.

Extended or Guaranteed Replacement Cost Endorsement Some policies pay 125–150% of dwelling limit if rebuild costs exceed coverage. Worth the extra premium in Florida.

2. Hurricane & Wind Deductibles

Hurricane Deductible Amount Florida policies have a separate hurricane deductible — typically 2–5% of dwelling coverage. On a $400k home, that's $8k–$20k out of pocket before insurance pays.

Named Storm vs. Hurricane Trigger Know what activates the higher deductible. "Named storm" deductibles apply to any named tropical system — even one that doesn't reach hurricane strength.

Wind Mitigation Discount Applied If your home has hurricane shutters, impact glass, or a hip roof, you may qualify for discounts. A wind mitigation inspection typically costs $100–$150 and can save hundreds annually.

3. Flood & Water Coverage

Important: Standard homeowner's policies do NOT cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private market.

Flood Insurance Policy in Force Check your flood zone at msc.fema.gov. Even low-risk zones see flooding — 20% of flood claims come from non-high-risk zones.

Water Backup / Sewer Endorsement Covers damage from backed-up drains or sump pump failure. Usually a low-cost add-on but often excluded from base policies.

4. Code & Ordinance Coverage

Ordinance or Law Coverage (Coverage F) If a partial loss requires rebuilding to current code, standard policies only pay for the damaged portion. Ordinance coverage pays the upgrade cost. Critical for homes built before 2002 Florida Building Code.

Coverage Limit is Adequate Should be at least 25–50% of your dwelling limit. Roof replacement to meet current code alone can add $10k–$30k to a repair bill.

5. Additional Living Expenses

Loss of Use Coverage (Coverage D) Pays for hotel, meals, and temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable. Confirm the limit and time period — some policies cap at 12 months or 20% of dwelling coverage.

6. Personal Property & Liability

Personal Property Limit (Coverage C) Typically 50–75% of dwelling coverage. Walk your home and estimate total contents value — furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances. Most people are underinsured here.

Scheduled Personal Property for High-Value Items Jewelry, art, firearms, collectibles, and electronics often have sub-limits (e.g., $1,500 for jewelry). Schedule high-value items separately to cover full appraised value.

Liability Coverage (Coverage E) Standard is $100k–$300k. If you have a pool, trampoline, dog, or significant assets, consider $500k or adding an umbrella policy.

Found a gap in your coverage? A licensed public adjuster can review your policy before a claim — not just after. Call Robinhood Adjusting for a complimentary policy review: (561) XXX-XXXX or visit robinhoodadjusting.com.