You will need to obtain an elevation certificate in order to get a quote for flood insurance when the property is in a special hazard flood zone. You would have to call a land survey company and order one for the property and provide that to your insurance agent to obtain a quote.
Read MoreIn most cases the answers is NO. Many people are not aware that most homeowners companies in Florida are now excluding Animal Liability from their policy. This is a coverage that no one should go without. Call one of our Hoffman & Associates agents today for a quote on a policy specifically for...
Read MoreThere are stand alone policies that a designed to cover this specifically. You can call an independent agent that represents a variety of companies to secure this covers. Hoffman and Associates has a full staff of professional independent agent that will get you the coverage you need. Please call...
Read MoreCitizens will no longer offer coverage on the items listed below weather they are attached to the building or not....
Read MoreEffective 05/01/2012 for renewal and 06/01/2012 for new business Citizens Property insurance change are the following:Reducing the default on coverage B (other structures ) from 10% to 2%There will no longer be an option to schedule coverage B items individuallyReduce coverage C (personal...
Read MoreYes, in addition to the current premium you are paying for your Citizens property insurance policy you could be surcharged as much as 45% in the event that Citizens does not have the funds to pay for losses. One way to avoid this issue is to find a home insurance policy in a standard admitted...
Read MoreNo , effective 02/01/2012 for new business Citizens maximum coverage for the dwelling is 1 million dollars . If you have a home with over 1 million for coverage A dwelling and it is currently insured with Citizens after 05/01/2012 Citizens will be non renewing all homes exceeding the 1 million...
Read MoreYes, property damage from a storm surge is considered flood damage and is therefore covered by your flood insurance policy.
Read MoreMost insurance policies will reimburse you for reasonable expenses. Make temporary repairs that will prevent further damage as you wait for a claims adjuster to arrive.
Read MoreIf your condo is in a special hazard flood zone then your association has to carry flood insurance on the building, including the unit's interior. The only thing not covered by their policy would be your personal property. You can get a separate policy to cover your personal property.
Read MoreUsually yes if you have approved opening protection on ALL openings you should qualify for some type of discount on your homeowners policy. This is a very detailed and extensive segment of your wind mitigation inspection and the discount you are eligible to receive varies greatly due to the...
Read MoreIf your roof is anything other than Hip and it happens to be shaped as a Gable roof than the form wants to identify if there is bracing present and if it meets the 2001 Florida Building Code. For roof structures that contain gables the inspector will identify the weakest form of bracing that...
Read MoreThis is exactly how it sounds. The inspector is going to identify they types of wall construction and the percentage of each. The inspection form 1802 list the following wall construction types: Wood Frame, Un-Reinforced Masonry, Reinforced Masonry, Poured Concrete, and Other.
Read MoreFor the purpose of the Wind Mitigation Inspection form 1802 a secondary water resistant barrier is a self adhering modified bitumen underlayment. Basically, this is a peel and stick type of material that is installed before the shingles. A benefit of this type of material is it adheres directly...
Read MoreA Hip shaped roof (Roof Geometry) offers the best discount when referencing the wind mitigation inspection discounts. The shape of the roof is important when comparing or mitigating the wind. If your roof is shaped like a pyramid and goes down at a slope on all 4 elevations than your roof...
Read MoreAccording to Federal Emergency Management Agency officials, some people do not buy flood insurance because they dont understand how the insurance works. Buying flood insurance can provide protection and peace of mind.Here are some common myths and facts about the National Flood Insurance...
Read MoreThe Type of Policy is one factor in determining the amount of a settlementReplacement Cost and Actual Cash Value: Replacement cost policies provides you with the dollar amount needed to replace a damaged item with one of similar kind and quality without deducting for depreciation (the decrease in...
Read MoreNo. There are many other features of your home that may qualify for wind mitigation discounts. Even if you do not have shutter one of these other features may apply to your home and give you a discount. Each feature has a separate discount available. Briefly Categories of features inspected: 1....
Read MoreThe state legislation adopted provisions for a new statewide building code (the 2001 Florida Building Code), which became effective on March 1, 2002. The same legislation included a requirement for insurance companies to provide property insurance discounts for homes that have wind mitigation...
Read MoreReview your coverage with your agent. Some older policies provide less coverage than the HO-3. They may not provide coverage for water damage, theft, or liability. They may also provide coverage for the house on an actual cash value basis, rather than a replacement cost basis.Actual Cash Value...
Read MoreSometimes, the term Acts of God is not specifically mentioned in homeowners insurance policies. It usually refers to natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes, as opposed to man-made acts, like theft and auto accidents. Some natural disasters, such as damage from windstorms, hail, lightning...
Read MoreYes. You are covered for the damage to your roof. You are also covered for the removal of the tree, generally up to a $500 limit. You should cut down dead or dying trees close to your house and prune branches that are near your house. Its true that your insurance covers the damage, but falling...
Read MoreYes. The HO-3 provides broad coverage for these and other perils, as they are called in the policy, including all those listed in the question. You should check the dollar limits of insurance in your policy and make sure your agent does a replacement cost estimator to determine the proper amount...
Read MoreMost HO-3 policies cover you for accidental discharge of water from a plumbing system, but not all. You have to verify with your company or agent if this coverage is included in your policy. Some companies that do not include this coverage may allow it to be added as an endorsement. It is...
Read MoreOne of the most important things you can know about your policy is what exactly it covers. The worst time to learn exactly what is or is not covered is after you have damage to your home. When you, the homeowner, is deciding what needs to be covered, think about what the value of your home and...
Read MoreYour trees and shrubs are covered for losses due to risks like vandalism, theft and fire, but not wind damage. However, if a fallen tree blocks access to your home you may be covered for its removal. Decide if you need extra insurance for the trees, plants and shrubs on your property. You may be...
Read MoreIf theyre full-time collage students and part of your household, your insurance generally provides some coverage in a dorm, typically 10% of the contents limit. If they live off campus, some companies may not provide this limited coverage if the apartment is rented in the students name.
Read MoreWhether or not you are covered for either theft or liability depends on the size of the boat, the horsepower of the engine and your insurance company. Coverage for small boats under homeowners policies varies significantly. Ask your insurance representative whether you need a Boat Owners Policy.
Read MoreAlthough a small percentage may be included automatically in your policy you can purchase an Ordinance or Law endorsement. This will cover the extra costs involved in meeting new building codes.
Read MoreThe discount insurance companies are mandated to give you is based on if you have had your roof replaced since the 2001 F.B.C. not a particular brand of roofing material. The Roof covering portion of a wind mitigation inspection report refers to if you have had your roof replaced since the 2001...
Read MoreThis is in reference to the fasteners that are used to attach the roof sheathing to the roof framing members. Roof decks can be attached with a wide range of fasteners that include staples, 6D nails, 8D nails, screws, etc. The wind mitigation inspection will identify the type of fastener used and...
Read MoreYes. Roof to wall connections refers to what is holding your roof framing members down to your walls. The better the connection method/material the better the discount will be that should applied to your home owners policy from an accurate wind mitigation inspection report.Connections could be...
Read MoreUsually, your own condominium insurance policy provides coverage for your personal possessions, structural improvements to your condominium and additional living expenses. There is also a master policy provided by the condo/co-op board which covers the common areas you share with others in your...
Read MoreNo. Your landlord is only responsible for the damage done to the structure of the building. Damage to your personal possessions is covered only if you have a renters insurance policy.
Read MoreHurricane season starts June 1 and runs through November 30. TIPS:1. BUY ENOUGH INSURANCE Get enough insurance to rebuild your home and to replace all of your personal belongings. If you have made a major alteration or improvement to your home, or you have made significant purchases, notify your...
Read MoreIf your home is located outside of the high-risk flood zone, you're still at risk for flooding (and the insurance costs a lot less). FEMA estimates more than 20% of flood claims come from properties come from low to moderate risk flood zones. Keep in mind flooding can be very costly - just one...
Read MoreThe purchase of flood insurance is mandatory under federal law for all federal or federally related financial assistance for the acquisition and/or construction of buildings in high-risk flood areas (Special Flood Hazard Areas or SFHAs). Federal law does not require flood insurance If the...
Read MoreThere is a big difference between an insurance company canceling a policy and choosing not to renew it. Insurance companies cannot cancel a policy that has been in force for more than 60 days except when:You fail to pay the premiumYou have committed fraud or made serious misrepresentations on...
Read MoreWould you be able to remember all the possessions youve accumulated over the years if they were destroyed by a fire? Having an up-to-date home inventory will help you get your insurance claim settled faster, verify losses for your income tax return and help you purchase the correct amount of...
Read MoreIf you live in a home that is considered "high-risk" or plan to move to a high-risk location, you may have difficulty obtaining an insurance policy.What constitutes high-risk? Your home is located in an area prone to severe weather such as hurricanes, windstorms, tornadoes or...
Read MoreFlood insurance can be more affordable than you think, for those who qualify for preferred rates; below youll find a sampling of policy premiums from FEMA for different amounts of coverage. If you have any additional questions, would like assistance determining what your rate would be or are...
Read MoreA standard homeowners insurance policy includes four essential types of coverage. They include:1.Coverage for the structure of your home.2.Coverage for your personal belongings.3.Liability protection.4.Additional living expenses in the event you are temporarily unable to live in your home because...
Read MoreCredit scores are based on an analysis of an individuals credit history. These scores are used for many purposes such as securing a loan, finding a place to live, getting a telephone and buying insurance. Insurers often generate a numerical ranking based on a persons credit history, known as an...
Read MoreThere are four events that should trigger a review of your policy:1. When your policy comes up for renewalDont just automatically send a check to your insurance company. Take the time to review your coverage and call your agent with any questions or concerns that you may have regarding your...
Read MoreCall your homeowner insurance agent or company representative.Let your insurance company know that you have a pool, since it will increase your liability risk. Pools are considered an attractive nuisance and it may be advisable to purchase additional liability insurance. Most homeowners policies...
Read MoreAfter a detailed analysis of insurers financial situation companies, such as Demotech, assign a letter rating based on the financial stability of each individual company.For Example:A" (A Double Prime) P&C insurers earning an FSR of A" (A Double Prime) have Unsurpassed ability to...
Read MoreA four-point Inspection is often required when obtaining a new homeowners insurance policy or renewing an existing policy. This 4-point insurance inspection includes a limited scope evaluation of the following four systems: (1) roofing(2) electrical(3) heating-air conditioning(4) plumbingThe...
Read MoreThe Four Point Insurance Inspection consists of the following four systems:Roof inspection Electrical Inspection HVAC (Heat, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) Plumbing A four point inspection is generally required on older homes in order to purchase insurance. Requirements vary from company to...
Read MoreFinding Insurance on the beachside in Brevard County can be a challenge. Captive agents such as Allstate could be limited with their markets. Finding an independent agent could be your best option and independent agents do not work for any one particular insurance company they work for you and...
Read MoreIf your agent is only giving you the Citizens option you may need to shop around for an independent agent. As former Owners of The Hoffman Agency (Allstate) in Indian Harbour Beach Florida we understand how important it is to maximize your options. Hoffman & Associates Insurance LLC is a full...
Read MoreDemotech is a company that provides information on the financial stability of property and casualty insurers. A Financial Stability rating or "FSR" is a detailed looks into the financial stability of property and casualty insurers. These ratings are applied after a detailed analysis is...
Read MoreIf you are aware that flood remapping is taking place in your community, and you dont have flood insurance, now is the time to buy it before remapping takes effect. In that case, you will be able to take advantage of grandfathering of that policy at the current rate. The government allows for...
Read MoreA wind mitigation inspector will look at many features of your home to determine what discounts you may be eligible for. Basically they will look at the following areas: Roof Covering The insurance company is mandated to give discounts if you have had your roof replaced since 2001 Florida...
Read MoreWhy Should I Consider Flood Insurance? According to the National Flood Insurance Program: Floods are the most common natural disaster. With more and more buildings, roads and parking lots being constructed where forests and meadows used to exist, floods are becoming more severe....
Read MoreNo, his homeowners policy would cover the damage to his house unless you were negligent and are held liable for the damage due to that negligence.
Read MoreA Wind Mitigation is used to identify possible discounts that a homeowner may be eligible for. It is not used to charge homeowners more money. Your Hoffman & Associates Insurance Agent would be happy to review with you the pros and cons of having a Wind Mitigation Inspection done as it pertains...
Read MoreThere are items or valuables that may have limitations in your homeowners policy.Some items include: Jewelry: wedding rings, pendants, bracelets, watches, precious and semi-precious stones Furs: real fur garments and garments trimmed with real fur Cameras: digital, still, movie,...
Read MoreYou do not have to be in a flood zone to be affected by a flood. Hoffman & Associates recommends talking to your agent regarding this coverage before you are in need of assistance from a flood.The following guidelines are recommended by FEMA for the period following a flood: Listen for news...
Read MoreYour condominium association insurance covers the condominium building, commonly owned property, and liability for the association. That insurance policy wont cover you or your personal property. Most of the time the associations coverage stops at the interior walls meaning your are responsible...
Read MoreYou are not required if there is no mortgage or third party who has an interest in the home and property. But because your home is likely one of your largest assets, its a good idea and highly recommended to always maintain coverage even if you do not owe any money on it. You would not receive...
Read MoreHere is a brief list that the Institute for Business & Home safety (IBHS) outlined of the Top Five ways to better protect homes from damaging wind and rain during hurricane season:1-Shutter all openingsOne of the most important thing you can do to improve the chance your home will survive a...
Read MoreThere is normally a 30-day waiting period before the flood insurance would go into effect. There are however 2 basic exceptions. If the initial purchase of flood insurance is in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of a loan, there is no waiting period. The coverage...
Read MoreVacant dwellings do need special coverage. Depending on your policy you will have 30-60 days to find a new tenant before having to change your coverage. You will need to check with your agent to verify the timeframe your policy requires tenancy to resume.
Read MoreYes, you would want to consider a Flood Insurance Policy. Anywhere it rains, it can flood. As a homeowner it is always important to insure your home. Depending on the location of your property, your home would be considered either at high-risk or at moderate-to-low risk for a flood. The flood...
Read MoreIn the event of damage to your property you should make only the temporary repairs needed to prevent further damage to take place.Be sure to take pictures of all the damage and keep all of your receipts for materials used in emergency repairs. Also keep record of who made the repairs if it was...
Read MoreThe home owners policy will not cover you; you would need your own renters insurance policy to protect your personal property and liability. This way the value of your property is covered and youll have coverage in the event someone is injured in the apartment or house you rent. The homeowners...
Read MoreThere are several factors to review when determining the stability of an insurer. Here is a brief version of what to look for in a company you are considering as your insurance carrier:Reserves (in millions of dollars): Florida regulators believe insurers need at least $10 million set aside for...
Read MoreAs most provisions in insurance policies additional living expenses (ALE) can vary from company to company and we recommend you always consult your own policy provision or agent for clarification on what your particular company and policy covers. ALE provides coverage for the additional expenses...
Read MoreHomeowners insurance policies often provide replacement cost coverage for the dwelling in the event of a loss.As such, insurance companies require policy holders to purchase an amount of insurance equal to the cost to rebuild the home using current construction costs. This is very different from...
Read MoreTo document personal property you can make a list of major household items and possessions. Where possible, it is wise to list the serial number, date and cost of purchase, and even include the receipt if you can. Another way is to use a video camera or take pictures of your home and its...
Read MoreHere are a few tips on what to consider if you want to try and lower your homeowners insurance costs: Talk to your agent about raising your deductibles. Talk to your agent about a wind mitigation and 4 point inspection. Install burglar and fire alarms that alert your local police and...
Read MoreYou are not alone currently there are thousands of Floridians asking themselves the same question. State farm and Nationwide are following the footsteps of Allstate and many others and are non-renewing thousands of policies in Florida to reduce their hurricane exposure. First and foremost Be an...
Read MoreGenerally speaking, there are two different ways that insurance is sold and serviced:There are independent agents who represent more than one company. Hoffman & Associates is a group of independent agents. These agents are not employed by any company or carrier. They are local independent agents...
Read MoreWind loss mitigation is performed by a licensed inspector to determine the dwellings ability to withstand hurricane force winds. The inspection focuses on the type of roof, the roof deck attachments, roof to wall attachments, and any other modification to the dwelling such as hurricane shutters.
Read MoreAsk your agent, but in most cases this inspection helps to dramatically reduce your homeowners premium immediately and over time the savings outweighs the cost of the inspection. Usually this is one of the biggest discounts offered on a homeowners policy. Costs of the inspection may vary, so you...
Read MoreYour deductible will vary based on your individual situation and be determined by you when you discuss your coverage options with your agent. Higher deductibles in most cases lower cost dramatically but also increase your out of pocket expenses in the event of a claim. In Florida you will have...
Read MoreWe recommend reviewing your policy at every renewal and make an appointment with your agent if you see anything that appears to be different from the year before or if you have made any changes to your property.
Read MoreSome preparations to take before hurricane season comes to Florida are: Make sure youre covered! Insurance companies do not accept new application or requests for increased coverage once a hurricane nears Florida. If you have any questions or changes regarding your coverage contact your agent...
Read MoreNO, Flood insurance is a separate policy that can be purchased through any licensed property and casualty agency and is underwritten through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Read MoreCovered losses under a homeowners policy can be paid on either an actual cash value basis or on a replacement cost basis. When actual cash value is used, the policy owner is entitled to the depreciated value of the damaged property. Under the replacement cost coverage, the policy owner is...
Read MoreHomeowner insurance companies offer a variety of discounts to homeowners that have smoke alarms, security systems or proof of wind loss mitigation inspection.
Read MoreYour coverage will be determined by the size and features of your home. Your policy will be customized to your unique needs. Our experienced insurance agents can help you identify any gaps in your existing coverage and determine if you need additional coverage to protect your home and property.
Read MoreThe typical homeowners policy has two main sections: Section I covers the property of the insured, and Section II provides personal liability coverage for the insured. Almost anyone who owns or leases property has a need for this type of insurance. Usually, homeowners insurance is required by the...
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Information contained within this site is the property of Hoffman and Associates Insurance Company and is provided for consumers looking to purchase insurance. Any other use is prohibited. We are not responsible for errors and omissions on this web site. All information contained herein should be deemed reliable but not guaranteed, all representations are approximate, and individual verification is required. Please contact Hoffman Insurance Company at 321-751-2511 before making any purchase decisions based on information contained on this web site to check for validity. This content is copyrighted by Hoffman and Associates Insurance Company and will bring legal action on to anyone who copies the information contained here. PLEASE NOTE THAT COMPLETION OF A REQUEST FOR INFORMATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PURCHASE OF INSURANCE. NO COVERAGE MAY BE ADDED, CHANGED OR BOUND AS A RESULT OF SUBMITTING A REQUEST FOR INFORMATION. ALL COVERAGE MUST BE CONFIRMED BY THE AGENCY IN WRITING SUBJECT TO AN ACCEPTABLE SIG NED APPLICATION MEETING THE UNDERWRITING GUIDELINES OF THE INSURANCE COMPANY. Please read your policy carefully for your terms of coverage. No information in this website alters the terms of coverage in your individual policy. If you do not agree to these terms please exit this website
