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Consumer Guides

Property Coverage

Homeowners insurance helps pay to repair or rebuild your home and replace personal possessions lost due to theft, fire or other disasters such as storms. Although Florida law does not require homeowners insurance, some cities and counties require liability coverage if you own certain pets or a swimming pool. Liability coverage pays for non-automobile-related injuries to other people, or damage to their property, for which you are legally responsible.

For mortgaged homes, the lending institution will require full insurance coverage on the structure, including flood (if located in special zone), fire, liability, windstorm, etc. Some developments and subdivisions may also require insurance.

Consumer Quick Tips

homeowners insurance guide

HomeOwners Insurance Guide

Homeowners insurance helps pay to repair or rebuild your home and replace personal possessions lost due to theft, fire or other disasters such as storms.

English 4.4MB 2008

Spanish 4.5MB 2008

homeowners financial toolkit

Homeowners Financial Toolkit

Helping you make informed decisions when it comes to disasters. This toolkit provides helpful suggestions to prepare you for any type of claim that involves the largest investment you’ve made - your home.

English 1MB

Spanish 1.5MB

title insurance guide

Title Insurance Guide

During the home buying process—and particularly during closing—many of us are faced with a barrage of terms and procedures we have never heard of, especially if we are first-time buyers. This publication is designed to help you understand the process.

English 457k 2008

residential property claim disputes

Mediation Program - Residential Property Claim Disputes Guide

See also Emergency Rule regarding mediation: This emergency rule establishes a special mediation program for personal lines residential insurance claims resulting from the 2004 and 2005 tropical storms and hurricanes.

English 900k 2008

mold and water damage brochure

Water Damage Brochure

As an insured homeowner, you must take appropriate and swift action to minimize damage from unexpected water intrusion, and prevent further problems caused by mold.

English 6.2MB 2005

tie-downs rack card

Tie-Downs Rack Card

Tie-downs can help prevent damage to your manufactured or mobile home during a storm. They can save you money on insurance, and they’re required by Florida law. Tie-downs are just plain good sense. Learn more from this publication.

English 255k 2005

Spanish 190k 2005

Creole 127k 2005

reverse mortgage rack card

Reverse Mortgage Rack Card

Before you borrow, consider these questions to determine if a reverse mortgage is right for you.

English 728k 2009

sinkholes in fl brochure

Sinkholes in Florida Brochure

Sinkholes are an unpredictable part of the Florida landscape, especially in West Central Florida and the greater Tampa Bay area. Before you buy a home, make sure that you have these bases covered:

English 3.4MB 2008

settling your sinkhole claim

Settling Your Sinkhole Claim Brochure

If your insurance company has denied a claim for loss or damage that you believe was caused by a sinkhole, the Florida Department of Financial Services is available to assist you through its Neutral Evaluator program, explained in this brochure.

English 586k 2008

Spanish 586k 2008

Forms used for sinkhole claims:

Sinkhole Insurance Claims Request for Neutral Evaluation

Neutral Evaluator's Report