Homeowners across the Emerald Coast, including Destin and Fort Walton Beach, have experienced firsthand how challenging Florida’s home insurance market has been over the past several years. Rising premiums, fewer carrier options, and stricter underwriting left many homeowners feeling frustrated and unsure of what comes next.
Recent legislative reforms, however, are beginning to shift the landscape. Understanding what changed—and how it affects your policy—is key to making smart decisions at renewal.
Why Florida’s Home Insurance Market Struggled
Florida’s insurance issues extended far beyond storm activity. A combination of excessive litigation, assignment of benefits (AOB) abuse, rising reinsurance costs, and increasing claim severity created an unsustainable environment for many insurers.
As carriers exited the state or restricted new business, homeowners throughout Okaloosa County were left with limited options and significant premium increases.
What Insurance Reforms Were Passed?
Florida lawmakers introduced reforms aimed at stabilizing the market, including:
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Reducing lawsuit incentives against insurers
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Eliminating one-way attorney fees on many claims
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Tightening claim assignment rules
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Encouraging insurers to re-enter the Florida market
These changes were designed to lower long-term costs for carriers—an important step toward stabilizing premiums for homeowners.
Have Premiums Gone Down?
For most homeowners in Destin and Fort Walton Beach, premiums have not dropped dramatically yet—and that’s expected.
Insurance markets respond slowly. While we are seeing:
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Fewer extreme rate increases
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More underwriting consistency
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New carriers cautiously entering Florida
True premium relief typically follows years—not months—after reform.
This is where working with a local agency matters. Our team actively tracks premium trends, carrier appetite, and underwriting shifts so we can advocate for our clients when opportunities arise—rather than waiting passively at renewal.
What Homeowners Should Expect Going Forward
Homeowners along the Emerald Coast should expect:
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Continued underwriting scrutiny (roof age, wind mitigation, updates)
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More market stability
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Fewer surprise non-renewals
Having an advocate who regularly reviews policies, monitors carrier changes, and proactively shops coverage can make a meaningful difference over time. Florida’s home insurance market is improving, but smart navigation matters. Working with an agency that understands coastal risks—and actively watches the market on your behalf—helps ensure you’re not overpaying or underprotected as conditions evolve.