Finding your dream home or simply shopping for a new insurance policy should be an exciting step. But what if your home insurance application gets denied? It’s a frustrating setback, but it’s more common than you might think—especially here in Florida. Understanding why this happens can help you prepare and improve your chances of approval.
Common Reasons for Home Insurance Denial
While every insurance company evaluates risk differently, there are some universal red flags that can cause your application to get denied. Knowing these ahead of time can save you a lot of stress.
Outdated or Risky Home Features
Certain features can be considered high risk. These don’t always lead to an automatic denial, but they could make finding coverage more challenging. Here are a few common concerns for Florida underwriters:
Old Roofs (15+ Years) – Roofing is a hot-button issue right now. Some insurers won’t even write a policy without documentation that the roof is in good condition.
Trampolines and Unfenced Pools – These increase liability risk. Fencing, safety features, or even removing them may be necessary.
Tree Limbs Over the Roof – Not just a maintenance issue. Overhanging limbs can cause serious roof damage during storms and are a common reason for denial during inspections.
Location Risks
Florida’s a beautiful place, but it’s no stranger to risk. Homes in coastal areas, flood zones, or locations far from a fire station or hydrant may be harder to insure—or come with restrictions or surcharges.
Age and Condition of the Home
Older homes can be charming, but if the plumbing, electrical, or roof haven’t been updated, they may not meet current underwriting standards. Regular maintenance and documentation are your best allies here.
Claims History
If you’ve filed multiple claims in the past few years—especially liability claims—insurers may see that as a red flag. It’s not just how many claims, but what kind. A claim for someone slipping on your property will usually carry more weight than a small water damage claim.
Insurance Score (Yes, It’s a Thing)
Many carriers use something called an insurance score—a number based on your credit behavior, claims history, and payment reliability. While Florida allows this as a rating factor, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. A low score doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be denied, but it can be a hurdle.
Pets and Liability Concerns
Certain dog breeds or exotic pets can limit your options. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad pet owner—it just means the company sees a higher potential for claims. Some carriers will still write the policy, but exclude coverage for dog bites or certain animal-related incidents.
How to Overcome These Obstacles
Getting denied for home insurance can feel frustrating—but it’s not the end of the road. With the right guidance, you can turn a ‘no’ into a confident yes. Here’s how:
Maintain Your Home – Keep your roof, plumbing, and electrical systems up to date.
Reduce Liability Risks– Install safety features like pool fences or remove high-risk items like trampolines.
Work with a Knowledgeable Agent – Someone who knows the Florida market can guide you to the right carrier.
Need Help Getting Approved?
At Vermost Insurance Agency, we know what carriers are looking for and how to help you qualify. Whether that means applying with another company or taking a few steps to bring your home up to standard, we’re here to make the process smoother.
📞 Call one of our Trusted Insurance Advisors today at 727-748-2886.