Citizens Insurance
CITIZENS INSURANCE CANCELLED?
Citizens Property Insurance
New Law Regarding Opening Protection Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are Citizens' new requirements for insuring residential property located in coastal areas?
A: Homes with an insured value of $750,000 located in the
wind-borne debris region (WBDR) are now required by law to have Florida Building Code compliant opening protections to qualify for Citizens Insurance coverage.
Q: How do I know if my home is in the WBDR?
Q: Does this apply to condos, multi-family housing units and mobile homes?
A: The law does not apply to mobile homes. The applicability of condos and multi-family housing unit structures is outlined in the chart below:
|
Dwelling Description |
Type of Insurance Coverage |
Does the New Enforcement Apply? |
| Single Family Home |
Personal Residential |
YES |
| 2 Unit (Duplex) |
Personal Residential |
YES |
| 3 or 4 Unit |
Personal Residential |
YES |
| 3 or 4 Unit |
Commercial Residential |
NO |
| 5+ Units |
Commercial Residential |
NO |
Q: When does the new law take effect?
A: The law became effective January 1, 2009. All existing homes with an insured value of at least $750,000 and insured by Citizens Property Insurance will not be eligible for new or renewal homeowners' insurance unless all openings are protected.
Q: Is there a list of approved products?
A: Yes, contact FAS Windows & Doors for a free in-home consultation detailing all products that are approved.
Alternatives to impact-resistant windows and doors include storm panels and shutters. However, shutters obstruct views, may detract from the appearance of a home and require time-consuming and sometimes costly installation and de-installation.
Q: What if I can't afford shutters or impact-resistant windows?
A: There is an exception available in the building code for a low-cost alternative outside of Broward and Miami-Dade counties. Plywood shutters may be used to comply with the eligibility requirements. Please visit
Citizens Property Insurance for additional information.
Q: How long do I have to make sure I am compliant?
A: Citizens will notify affected homeowners six months or more prior to their policy expiration. They will then give homeowners at least six months to comply with the new requirement and to provide the proper documentation.
Q: Will my premium go down once I prove that I have covered all openings?
A: According to Citizens, your premium will be reduced when they have received evidence that your openings are protected. Contact your insurance agent to determine any premium savings.
Q: Am I affected by this legislation if my policy excludes wind?
A: No. If your Citizens policy covers only peril (fire, theft, etc.) and not wind, you are not obligated to meet the new requirement.
Q: How will Citizens know that I have the proper opening protection?
A: Citizens requires that you send in Form
WBDR-1802, a mitigation inspection form, to prove that you have the proper opening protection.