Renters insurance in Florida averaged about $181 a year in 2022, roughly $15 a month and above the national average of $171 (NAIC data via the Insurance Information Institute). Florida renters should pay close attention to two things: how their policy handles hurricane wind, and the fact that flood isn’t covered at all without a separate policy.
How much is renters insurance in Florida?
| Area | Average yearly premium (2022) |
|---|---|
| Florida | $181 |
| Georgia | $205 |
| Alabama | $219 |
| U.S. average | $171 |
Coastal counties typically pay more than inland areas. See every state’s average.
Is renters insurance required in Florida?
No Florida law requires renters insurance, but many apartment communities require it in the lease. What landlords can require.
Hurricanes: what’s covered
Wind damage from a hurricane is usually covered for your belongings, for example if the storm breaks windows and rain ruins your furniture. But check three things in your policy:
- A separate hurricane or windstorm deductible. Some policies apply a different, often higher, deductible to hurricane losses.
- Wind exclusions. In some coastal areas, a policy may exclude wind entirely. Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, Florida’s state-backed insurer, offers renters (HO-4) policies when private coverage is hard to find; eligibility rules apply.
- Loss of use. If a hurricane makes your apartment unlivable, this coverage pays for somewhere to stay. Some policies also pay when authorities order evacuations because of a covered peril, usually for a limited period.
Flood: the gap most Florida renters don’t know about
Storm surge and rising water are floods, and standard renters policies exclude flood. In a hurricane, the wind damage may be covered while the water damage from surge is not. Renters can buy contents-only flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. NFIP policies generally take 30 days to take effect, so buy before hurricane season, not when a storm is forecast.
Other Florida risks
Water leaks and mold
Sudden leaks, such as a burst pipe or an air-conditioning overflow, are generally covered for your belongings. Mold from long-term leaks or humidity usually isn’t. Report leaks to your landlord in writing right away. How water damage coverage works.
Theft
Theft from your apartment, car or storage unit is generally covered for your belongings. More on theft from a car.
Miami, Tampa, Orlando and Jacksonville renters
- Miami and South Florida: highest hurricane and flood exposure; check wind coverage, your hurricane deductible and flood coverage.
- Tampa Bay: significant storm surge risk; flood coverage is especially important.
- Orlando: inland, but hurricanes still bring wind and heavy rain flooding.
- Jacksonville: coastal and river flooding risk.
Florida renters’ hurricane checklist
- Know your hurricane deductible before the season starts.
- Buy flood coverage at least 30 days before you might need it.
- Store a video inventory and your policy in the cloud.
- Keep receipts for evacuation costs.
Source for average premiums: NAIC 2022 data via the Insurance Information Institute. Insurance prices change every year, so get current quotes for your address.
New to this? Start with What is renters insurance?
This site offers general information, not insurance or legal advice. Coverage, prices and rules vary by insurer, policy and state, so always read your own policy and ask your insurer or agent about your situation.