Florida’s Homeowners Face Soaring Insurance Premiums as Reform Efforts Heat Up

Florida homeowners are facing some of the highest insurance premiums in the nation, according to new findings highlighted by WPTV News Channel 5. With premiums averaging $5,838 per year—roughly $3,000 above the national average—many residents say the rising costs are pushing them to the brink.

‘Everything’s Tripled’ — Homeowners Sound Off

For West Palm Beach resident Jeff Heun, the numbers aren’t just statistics—they’ve reshaped his life. Once paying $3,400 for insurance, Heun told WPTV’s Joel Lopez that premiums have ballooned dramatically.

“Oh yeah, everything’s tripled,” Heun said. “I was gonna file a claim but I would have had my premiums doubled.”

Another resident shared that mandatory wind coverage and rising premiums are draining his household budget. He’d rather spend money upgrading windows and doors, but mortgage requirements force him to maintain costly coverage.

Some Floridians Opting Out Entirely

WPTV also spoke with a woman who hasn’t carried homeowners insurance in 25 years, choosing instead to set aside funds for emergencies. While risky, her situation highlights the difficult choices Floridians face: pay high premiums, dip into savings, or go uninsured.

Denied Claims and Delayed Help

In Loxahatchee, Bob and Pam Fix dealt with more than $40,000 in tornado damage. Their insurer initially offered just $4,500—later adjusted to $7,000—until a WPTV investigation by Kate Hussey helped secure the full amount needed for repairs.

Explore the full WPTV investigation at this link.

Push for Accountability and Reform

Dr. Martin Weiss, founder of Weiss Ratings, warned that unless Florida reverses course, the crisis could accelerate. He and Florida Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith are pushing for stronger consumer protections and transparency between insurers and affiliated managing general agents.

“Floridians cannot afford to pay the highest property insurance premiums in the nation,” Smith said. He and fellow Democratic leaders are introducing multiple reform proposals—capping rate increases, removing taxes on impact-resistant upgrades, and more.

The Stakes for Florida Homeowners

Recent figures show:

• Over 40% of claims in Florida are closed with no payment
• Florida leads the nation in dropped renewals at 3.3%

For the full original report, visit WPTV News Channel 5.