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Dropped in Florida? When you can get Citizens

Updated September 28, 2026· Sources verified September 28, 2026· Educational information, not legal advice

Short answer

Citizens is Florida's state-created insurer for homeowners who can't find coverage in the private market. You are generally not eligible if a private insurer offers comparable coverage at a premium no more than 20% above Citizens' rate, and homes above a replacement-cost limit ($700,000 in most counties) are not eligible.

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Citizens Property Insurance Corporation

Florida's state-created, not-for-profit insurer for property owners who cannot find coverage in the private market.

Eligibility depends on factors set in statute, including comparisons with private-market offers and value limits. MyNonRenewal does not assess eligibility.

The 20% rule

Florida law says you are ineligible for Citizens if an authorized insurer offers you coverage at a rate no more than 20% above Citizens' rate. The same test applies at renewal when a private insurer offers comparable coverage. If every private offer is more than 20% higher, you can stay with or apply to Citizens.

Keep your quotes

Private quotes are what decide eligibility, so keep written copies with dates and premiums. Your agent submits the Citizens application.

Home value limits

Homes with a dwelling replacement cost of $700,000 or more are generally not eligible. The statute allows a higher limit ($1 million) in counties the Office of Insurance Regulation finds lack reasonable market competition.

Steps

  1. Get private quotes first

    Through an independent agent who also places Citizens policies.

  2. Compare each quote with the Citizens premium

    Coverage must be comparable for the 20% test.

  3. Apply through the agent if no qualifying offer exists

    Make sure coverage starts before your current policy ends.

  4. Expect takeout offers later

    Private insurers may offer to take your policy. What a takeout letter means.

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Official sources

Rules can change. Check the official source before relying on it.

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MyNonRenewal provides educational information and document summaries. It does not provide legal advice, insurance advice, representation, or recommendations regarding specific insurance products.