Get a quote

Home insurance FAQs

Get easy answers to your home insurance questions here. For questions about using Kin, check out our Customer Support Center.

aerial view of a charming neighborhood in the spring

Home insurance coverage questions

What is the difference between flood insurance and homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection against events like fires, theft, and liability claims. Flood insurance specifically covers damage caused by flooding.

What happens if you don't have homeowners insurance in Florida?

Florida law doesn't require home insurance, but forgoing coverage can create some costly consequences.

What’s the difference between DP1 and DP3?

DP1 and DP3 are both dwelling property insurance policies that protect homeowners and landlords. However, a DP3 policy provides broader coverage because it insures your dwelling on an open perils basis.

Is home insurance required in Florida?

Homeowners insurance is not a legal requirement in Florida or any other state. However, homeowners insurance is likely required by the lender if you have a mortgage on your home.

What is a roof deductible in Florida?

A roof deductible is the amount of money you’re responsible for paying before your insurance company covers a claim for roof damage caused by events other than a hurricane.

Can I buy homeowners insurance without hurricane coverage in Florida?

The short answer is yes, you can buy home insurance without windstorm coverage in Florida.

How many people in Florida do not have homeowners insurance?

The Miami Herald reported in late 2023 that the Insurance Information Institute estimates 13% of homeowners in Florida are foregoing homeowners insurance coverage. This is much higher than the national average of 7% going without coverage.

Cost questions

What is the most expensive state for homeowners insurance?

The most expensive state for homeowners insurance is Florida. In fact, the Sunshine State has ranked in the top three for highest average costs for homeowners insurance since 2007.

How are flood insurance premiums calculated?

Location and construction materials play a primary role in determining flood insurance premiums, but insurers may look at other factors.

Application questions

What documents do you need to get home insurance?

The information you need to get a policy can vary by provider, but most want either proof of prior insurance or your closing disclosure.

How long is a home insurance quote good for?

Kin quotes are good for up to 60 days.

What’s a windstorm mitigation inspection?

A windstorm mitigation inspection shows how wind resistant your home is. It can save you big money on your home insurance.

What’s a reciprocal insurance company?

In a reciprocal insurance exchange, the carrier is owned by policyholders but managed by a separate entity.

Policy questions

What home insurance fees does Kin charge?

Depending on where you live, you may see the following fees: EMPA, FIGA, installment fees, inspection fees, and surplus contributions.

What are installment fees?

An installment fee is a small service charge that covers the cost of processing additional premium payments.

Claims questions

How do I file a home insurance claim?

You can file a home insurance claim by logging into the customer portal or calling 866-204-2219.

What if I can't afford my homeowners insurance deductible?

If you can't afford your homeowners insurance deductible and experience a claim that exceeds it, then you may have to find another way to cover your portion of the repair costs.

How long do home insurance claims stay on your record?

Typically claims stay on your CLUE report for five to seven years.

How are homeowners insurance claims paid?

Find out how homeowners insurance claims are paid and how your coverage and deductible impact your final payout

What happens if you don’t use insurance money for repairs?

Using insurance money from a claim for something other than repairs could result in your homeowners policy being nonrenewed.

Homeownership questions

What are the benefits of homeownership?

Homeownership is the epitome of the American dream, and your home is likely to be the most significant purchase you’ll ever make. If you purchase wisely, the equity growth of your home could lead to financial security.

What are the tax benefits of owning a home?

Nobody loves tax season, but it's a yearly reminder that homeownership has its perks.

Start saving on your home insurance