Frequently Asked Questions
General
Q: What does it mean to be an independent insurance agency?
A: As an independent agency, we’re not tied to a single insurance company. We work with multiple top rated carriers and shop on your behalf to find the best coverage and price for your specific situation. You get more options and an advocate in your corner, not just a salesperson for one company.
Q: How do I get a quote?
A: You can request a free quote by clicking here. You can also call us at 727.285.8860 or email us at hello@sunsetcoveins.com. We’ll ask you a few questions and get back to you with options.
Q: Do you only serve Dunedin, FL?
A: We’re based in Dunedin but serve clients across Florida and beyond. Whether you’re in Clearwater, Jacksonville, Miami or anywhere else in the state, we can help you find the right coverage.
Q: What happens if I need to file a claim?
A: You can contact us and we’ll help guide you through the process. You can also file directly with your carrier, we’ll make sure you have all the contact information you need before anything happens. Either way, we’re here to help.
Florida Specific
Q: Why is homeowners insurance so expensive in Florida?
A: Florida’s insurance market has been under significant pressure due to hurricane risk, high litigation rates and roof claim fraud. Many national carriers have pulled out of the state entirely, which has reduced competition and driven up prices. As an independent agency, we work with carriers who are still active, A Rated and competitive in Florida to find you the best available rate for your needs.
Q: Do I need flood insurance?
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding. The truth is, we’re all in a flood zone, even if your lender doesn’t require flood insurance. In fact, 25% of flood claims occur in preferred risk zones where lenders don’t even require a flood policy. Don’t let a lack of requirement give you a false sense of security. We recommend every homeowner understand their flood zone and evaluate their risk. We can help with that conversation.
Q: What is Citizens Insurance and should I use it?
A: Citizens is Florida’s state-run insurer of last resort. It was designed for homeowners who can’t find coverage in the private market. It can be a valid option, but it comes with some limitations and is subject to assessments if there’s a major storm. We’ll always check the private market first and only recommend Citizens if it truly makes sense for your situation.
Q: Does my policy cover hurricane damage?
A: Most Florida homeowners policies cover wind damage from hurricanes, but there’s usually a separate hurricane deductible, often 2% to 5% of your home’s insured value. Flooding from storm surge is not covered under a standard policy and requires separate flood insurance. This is one of the most important things to understand before hurricane season.
Auto Insurance
Q: What is the minimum auto insurance required in Florida?
A: Florida requires a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage (PD). Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance covers your injuries no matter who is at fault. Minimum coverage leaves most people severely underprotected and it’s not something we typically write. We believe in building coverage that actually works when you need it, not just checking a legal box. We’re happy to walk you through what adequate protection looks like for your situation.
Q: What is an SR-22 and do I need one?
An SR-22 and FR-44 are both certificates of financial responsibility and not insurance policies themselves. They are forms your insurer files with the state proving you carry coverage. The difference is in when they’re required and how much coverage they demand.
An SR-22 is typically required after violations like driving uninsured, license suspension or certain traffic offenses. It confirms you meet Florida’s minimum insurance requirements.
An FR-44 is required specifically after a DUI or DWI conviction and carries stricter requirements. It mandates significantly higher liability limits than an SR-22.
Both are filed directly with the state by your insurer. We handle SR-22 and FR-44 filings and can help you get back on the road legally.
Q: Does my auto policy cover a rental car?
A: Yes and no. It depends on your policy and how much risk you’re willing to accept. Some policies extend your liability and collision coverage to rental vehicles. It’s worth knowing before you need it. We can review your policy and let you know exactly what’s covered.
Homeowners Insurance
Q: What does homeowners insurance actually cover?
A: A standard homeowners policy typically covers your home’s structure, personal belongings, liability if someone is injured on your property and additional living expenses if you’re displaced due to a covered loss. It does not cover flooding, earthquakes or normal wear and tear. The specifics vary by policy, which is why we take the time to explain exactly what you’re buying.
Q: Do you cover condos, townhomes, and mobile homes?
A: Yes! We work with carriers that cover all property types including condos, townhomes, mobile homes and rental properties. Condo coverage in particular can be tricky because it needs to coordinate with your HOA’s master policy. We’ll make sure the gaps are covered.
Q: How is my home's insured value determined?
A: Your home is insured based on its replacement cost, what it would cost to rebuild it from scratch, not its market value. These numbers can be very different, especially in today’s construction market. Each carrier has their own Replacement Cost Estimators and we use those to determine your home’s value.
Flood Insurance
Q: Is flood insurance required?
A: If your home is in a high-risk flood zone and you have a federally backed mortgage, flood insurance is typically required by your lender. Even if it’s not required, we strongly recommend it for most Florida homeowners.
Q: What's the difference between NFIP and private flood insurance?
Q: What’s the difference between NFIP and private flood insurance?
A: The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is the federal government’s flood insurance program with standardized coverage and pricing. Private flood insurance is offered by private carriers and can sometimes provide broader coverage, higher limits or better pricing. We work with both and will help you compare options.
Business and Commercial
Q: What is a Business Owners Policy (BOP)?
A: A BOP bundles general liability and commercial property insurance into a single, cost-effective policy. It’s designed for small to mid-size businesses and is often the most efficient way to get solid business coverage without managing multiple separate policies.
Q: Do I need commercial auto insurance if I use my personal vehicle for work?
A: If you regularly use your vehicle for business purposes (deliveries, client visits, transporting equipment, etc.), your personal auto policy may not cover you in the event of a claim. Commercial auto insurance closes that gap. It’s one of the most commonly overlooked coverage needs for small business owners.
Specialty Coverages
Q: What does umbrella insurance cover?
A: An umbrella policy provides an extra layer of liability protection above and beyond your home and/or auto policies. If a claim exceeds your standard policy limits, your umbrella picks up where those policies leave off. It’s one of the most affordable ways to significantly increase your protection.
Q: Can I insure my jewelry, firearms, or artwork?
A: Yes. Standard homeowners policies have sub-limits for high-value items like jewelry, firearms, and fine art — meaning they may only cover a fraction of the actual value. We can add scheduled personal property coverage or a separate floater policy to make sure your valuables are fully protected.
Q: Is my boat covered under my homeowners policy?
A: Most homeowners policies offer very limited coverage for small watercraft — often only up to a certain horsepower or value. For anything larger or more valuable, a separate watercraft policy is the right move. We work with carriers who understand Florida boating and can find you the right fit.
