In today’s Florida insurance market, receiving a non-renewal or cancellation notice from your homeowners insurance company is more common than ever. We speak with homeowners every week who feel shocked, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next.
The good news is this a non-renewal does not mean you are out of options, but you must act quickly and make smart decisions.
At Just Insurance Brokers, we help Florida homeowners navigate these situations every day. This guide explains why non-renewals happen, what the law requires, and what you should do next to protect your home.
Why Am I Getting Non-Renewed?
Insurance companies in Florida have tightened their underwriting rules due to hurricanes, rising construction costs, litigation, and market instability. Even good homeowners are being non-renewed.
Common reasons include:
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The company is reducing exposure in Florida
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Your roof is older than the carrier allows
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Prior claims history
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Wind mitigation or inspection issues
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High replacement cost or location risk
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The insurer is leaving the Florida market entirely
Sometimes the decision has nothing to do with you personally — it may simply be a business decision by the insurance company.
How Much Notice Must the Insurance Company Give in Florida?
Under Florida law, insurers must generally give advance notice before a policy is cancelled or non-renewed.
Typical notice requirements:
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Non-renewal: at least 120 days notice (in most cases)
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Cancellation mid-term: usually 45 days notice (may vary depending on reason)
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Non-payment cancellation: shorter notice allowed
This notice period is extremely important because it gives you time to secure replacement coverage before your policy expires.
If you receive a letter, do not ignore it the clock has started.
What Are My Options After a Non-Renewal?
1. Shop for a New Private Insurance Company
Even in today’s market, many homeowners still qualify for coverage with another carrier.
Things that help:
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Newer roof
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Wind mitigation features
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No recent claims
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Updated inspections
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Correct replacement cost
Working with an independent agency gives you access to multiple companies instead of just one.
2. Citizens Property Insurance — The Insurer of Last Resort
If private carriers decline the risk, you may qualify for Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, Florida’s state-backed insurer.
Pros:
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Coverage available when others decline
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Often the only option for older homes or high-risk areas
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Required coverage to keep a mortgage
Cons:
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Coverage limits may be lower
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Stricter eligibility rules
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Possible future assessments after major storms
Citizens can be a temporary solution while you improve your insurability.
3. Improve Your Insurability
Many homeowners can become eligible for better coverage by making improvements.
Common steps that help:
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Replace an older roof
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Install hurricane shutters or impact windows
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Complete a wind mitigation inspection
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Fix electrical / plumbing issues
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Update inspection reports
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Remove hazards around the home
These changes can make the difference between being declined and being approved.
How an Independent Agent Can Help
When you get a non-renewal notice, time matters.
An independent insurance agency can:
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Check multiple companies at once
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Review inspection reports
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Explain Citizens eligibility
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Recommend mitigation improvements
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Find options that direct carriers will not show you
Many homeowners who call us think they have no options — and we are often able to find a solution.
Real Example (Based on Actual Situations We See)
A homeowner in South Florida received a non-renewal because the roof was over 15 years old.
The owner thought no company would insure the home.
After reviewing the property, we:
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Ordered a wind mitigation inspection
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Updated the replacement cost
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Found a carrier willing to write the risk with a higher deductible
The homeowner avoided a lapse in coverage and stayed insured.
Situations like this happen every week.
Call us if you receive a notice of cancellation and we will help you understand why you received it.
You may call us at 305-418-4701 or email us at We are here to help you understand your policy.
