If you're buying a manufactured home in Central Florida, insurance is one of those topics that sounds complicated but really isn't. Coverage is widely available, it's usually affordable, and a little understanding up front goes a long way. Here's what to know before you sign a policy.
Is insurance required?
Florida law doesn't require you to insure a manufactured home you own outright, but two things often make it necessary anyway. A lender will require coverage while you're paying off the home, and some communities ask for proof of a policy. Even when it isn't required, insurance is a smart move in a state that sees its share of wind and rain.
What a policy typically covers
A standard manufactured home policy protects your home and belongings against things like fire, wind, and storm damage, and usually includes personal property and liability coverage. Flood and sinkhole protection are typically handled through separate policies, which is worth keeping in mind depending on where your home sits.
What affects your rate
Insurers weigh a few things when they price a policy: the age of the home, how close it is to the coast, your county, the home's construction and safety features, and whether you own the land. Newer homes built to current standards, with modern windows and updated wiring, often qualify for better rates than older ones.
A common myth, cleared up
We hear it all the time: "Nobody will insure a manufactured home in Florida." That simply isn't true. Coverage is readily available, and today's HUD-code homes are engineered to handle Florida's weather. Insuring a new manufactured home is rarely a problem, and we're glad to point you toward reputable providers who work with homes like ours.
How to keep costs down
Choosing a newer home with upgraded windows and construction features, installing smoke detectors, and bundling policies can all help lower your premium. The average Florida manufactured homeowner spends a little over $100 a month on coverage, and the right choices can bring that number down.
Have questions about insuring one of our homes? Get in touch and we'll help you understand your options. You can also learn more on our financing and homeowner's insurance page.
