Every week we meet someone who’s overpaying for insurance simply because their home doesn’t qualify for the right discounts. Sometimes it’s the roof. Sometimes it’s the windows. Sometimes it’s just a missing inspection report. Whatever the reason, the result is the same — you’re paying more than you should.
But right now, that’s fixable.
The My Safe Florida Home program is back, and for many homeowners, it’s an opportunity to reduce premiums, improve storm safety, and increase resale value. Whether you’re a homeowner, a real estate agent, or a mortgage pro trying to keep your deals on track, this is one opportunity you do not want to miss.
We are telling every buyer, every seller, and every agent we know. The window is short and the rewards are real.
My Safe Florida Home: What It Offers and Who Qualifies
This state program was designed to help Floridians strengthen their homes against storms and lower insurance costs, but not everyone qualifies, and access is being phased in.
Here’s what to know:
- The program began accepting applications on August 4 for a limited group only. Low-income homeowners age 60 and older were the first to apply.
- Other eligibility groups will have staggered application windows throughout August and September.
- Free wind mitigation inspections and matching grants are only available to homeowners who meet income and age qualifications.
- Matching funds of up to $10,000 may be available to qualifying low- and moderate-income homeowners to help pay for upgrades like:
- Strengthening roof-to-wall attachments
- Installing impact-rated windows and doors
- Replacing outdated or unreinforced garage doors
These upgrades can unlock significant insurance credits and add real value when it’s time to sell. Some of our clients have already completed these updates and seen major premium reductions, not to mention stronger selling points in a competitive market.
Important: Funding is limited. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. We strongly recommend eligible homeowners set up portal access now so they’re ready when their application window opens.
The My Safe Florida Home program is administered by Florida’s Department of Financial Services. All upgrades funded through the program must be performed by contractors approved by the program. Also, the program currently only applies to single-family, site-built residential homes. Manufactured homes and condos are not eligible.
The Reason So Many Homes Miss Out on Savings
This part is critical.
Most homes don’t automatically qualify for discounts. You have to prove your home is storm-ready, and that starts with the right inspection.
Unfortunately, we’ve seen too many deals fall apart or families caught off guard because the inspection didn’t tell the full story.
Here’s the difference:
- A 4-point inspection checks the condition of the roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. It helps the insurer decide whether the home qualifies for coverage.
- A wind mitigation inspection evaluates how well the home can withstand windstorms. This is what unlocks premium discounts and is also the first step in the My Safe Florida Home process.
Even if you don’t qualify for the grant, getting a wind mitigation inspection can still result in significant savings on your current or future policy.
Agents, Lenders, and Homeowners: This Impacts All of You
Real estate professionals are under pressure to get deals closed on time. But when an inspection downplays or misses critical issues just to move things along, the buyer ends up paying the price.
We’ve seen it happen.
- The home closes without the right insurance credits applied
- Buyers get hit with higher premiums than expected
- Insurance delays push back move-in dates
- Everyone starts pointing fingers
This is why working with a team that understands both the real estate and insurance sides matters. We help you catch issues early, set realistic expectations, and make sure no one walks into a policy or property they don’t fully understand.
Getting the Right Insurance Inspection:
How Risk Smart Bridges the Gap
Because we specialize in both insurance and insurability, we help homeowners and agents connect the dots that other teams often miss.
We review wind mitigation reports with clients when they apply for programs like My Safe Florida Home. We explain which upgrades have the biggest impact on premiums. We coordinate with inspectors to make sure you’re getting the full story.
Already have an agent?
That’s fine. We’ve helped plenty of homeowners find savings their existing policies weren’t offering.
Already a Risk Smart client?
Let’s make sure you’re ready to go.
You don’t have to guess if you qualify or wonder whether your inspection is up to date. We’ll help you review your status, walk through the process, and confirm next steps so you’re not leaving money or protection on the table.
- Applications began August 4 for eligible senior homeowners
- Set up your portal access now so you’re ready when your group becomes eligible
Whether you’re buying, selling, or staying put, this program has the potential to lower costs, boost value, and protect what matters most.
Let’s Set You Up Right
You don’t need to be an insurance expert. You just need a team that is.
If your current agent hasn’t mentioned this program or these inspections, that’s a sign it’s time for a second opinion.
We’ll be here when you’re ready to review your inspection results, plan smart upgrades, and make sure your coverage reflects your home’s new value.
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