Recent legislative changes are relaxing the flood insurance mandate for many Citizens Personal Lines policyholders. The changes eliminate flood coverage requirements for contents (Coverage C) as a condition of eligibility with Citizens. Still, talk to your agent before making any changes.

Flood insurance will still be mandatory for dwellings (Coverage A) on policies with wind coverage that insure property in the Special Flood Hazard Area. It is also required on dwellings with a replacement cost of $600,000 or more.

The $600,000 threshold will decrease annually until January 1, 2027. That is when all structures must have flood coverage regardless of replacement cost value. Condominium unit owners and renters with tenant policies, however, are not required to carry flood coverage.

In order to renew a policy with Citizens, affected policyholders must submit proof of flood insurance for Coverage A to their agents. This proof can be provided by submitting one of the following:

• A completed Policyholder Affirmation Regarding Flood Insurance form along with a copy of the flood policy declarations
• A submitted application and proof of payment for pending flood coverage

Policyholders with wind-only coverage will need to submit proof that they have a flood endorsement or flood policy that meets the minimum standard of their multiperil policy.

If you were notified you need flood insurance for both Coverage A and/or Coverage C, you will receive an updated communication stating the law changes now require flood insurance only for Coverage A.

Citizens encourages you to visit the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation website for more information about flood insurance and to find a flood insurance provider. Please note there is typically a waiting period for a flood policy to go into effect, so you should plan accordingly.

You can also visit the Flood page on the Citizens website for more details and to access the required forms.

As Florida's insurance landscape evolves, Citizens remains committed to keeping you informed and providing support to navigate these changes. Consult with your agent to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your needs and circumstances.