Florida Homeowners Must Be Aware of New Rules Before Hurricane Season

On June 1st, hurricane season officially began in Florida. Now has never been a better time to familiarize yourself with some of the newest rules and regulations affecting homeowners in the Sunshine State. A greater understanding of these changes may help when you’re attempting to file a property insurance claim in Fort Lauderdale.

It Is Now More Challenging to Change Your Home Insurance

Because hurricane season has already officially begun in Florida, it is now more challenging to change your policy or explore alternative options. Because the insurance industry is recovering in the Sunshine State, homeowners now have more options and more freedom to “shop around.” In theory, more competition should mean better prices for the average consumer. That being said, early June is proving to be a relatively tame period as far as major storms go, and you may still have time to pursue more affordable options.

Shorter Timelines Are in Effect

If a major storm does arrive this year and you need to file a property insurance claim, you must do so within one year. Recent changes have shortened this deadline, and homeowners used to have two years to file their claims. However, insurers are also facing shorter timelines. While an insurance company previously had 90 days to pay or deny a claim, it now has only 60 days to do so.

Take Advantage of the My Safe Florida Home Program

Although the My Safe Florida Home Program dates back decades, the government “revived” it during a Special Legislative Session just a few years ago. Homeowners should be aware of the benefits of this program, including free professional wind-mitigation inspections and home-hardening grants. A smart choice right now would be to schedule a free wind-mitigation inspection.

That being said, the program is facing considerable backlogs. Although it may offer grants for roof, window, door, and wall improvements, you may struggle to have these renovations completed before the next storm hits. Not everyone is satisfied with the way this program has been implemented by the government.

Move to the State Now if You Want to Take Advantage of Property Tax Exemptions

Another relatively new change is the arrival of increased property tax exemptions. Along with home insurance premiums, property taxes represent one of the most crushing shelter costs for average Florida homeowners. Those who wish to relocate to Florida in the near future should do so before December 31st, 2026. If you do not establish your primary residency or “domicile” in Florida before this date, you may have to wait another four years before getting access to the $250,000 property tax exemption.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Property Insurance Lawyers Today

At Fuxa & Tyler, our legal team is made up of a diverse combination of attorneys who are well-positioned to protect the legal rights and financial interests of policyholders. If your property insurance claim was denied, we can help. For a free consultation, please call us today at (954) 990-5251. With an office in Sunrise, we represent policyholders in Broward County and throughout the state of Florida.

Sources:

 cbsnews.com/miami/news/south-florida-competitive-property-insurance-market-2026-hurricane-season/

insurancenewsnet.com/oarticle/insurance-relief-falls-short