Here is a requirement a lot of Citizens policyholders do not know about until it is almost too late: if your home is insured through Citizens, flood insurance is now mandatory, and it applies whether or not you live in a high-risk flood zone.
What the requirement says
Florida law now requires Citizens policyholders to carry flood insurance, phased in by the value of the home. Higher-value homes were required first, and the threshold has stepped down each year. By 2027 the requirement reaches every Citizens policy, regardless of home value or flood zone. Check where your home falls in the phase-in schedule so you are not caught out at renewal.
Why Citizens is requiring it
Citizens carries enormous storm exposure, and far too many Florida homeowners have been wiped out by flood with no coverage, because a homeowners policy never covers flood. Requiring flood protects both the policyholder and the state-backed pool.
What counts as coverage
Either a federal NFIP policy or a qualifying private flood policy satisfies the requirement. As an independent agency we write both, so we can compare the federal program against private markets, which often offer higher limits or a lower price, especially outside high-risk zones.
What to do now
Do not wait for the deadline. If you are on Citizens, put flood coverage in place now. It is inexpensive in lower-risk zones through a Preferred Risk Policy, and having it can even help you qualify for a private takeout offer down the road.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Citizens flood requirement apply if I'm not in a flood zone?
Yes. The requirement applies to Citizens policies regardless of flood zone, and flood damage can and does happen outside high-risk areas.
What happens if I don't get flood insurance on my Citizens policy?
You risk your eligibility and renewal with Citizens. It's best to add coverage before your required date rather than scramble at renewal.
Does NFIP or private flood satisfy the requirement?
Either one does, as long as it meets the coverage requirement. We can quote both and compare them side by side.
Need to add flood to your Citizens policy?
We'll check your flood zone and quote NFIP and private options that satisfy the Citizens requirement, free.
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