Florida condo insurance challenges are intensifying as roof inspections, policy cancellations, and rising premiums impact thousands of residents across the state. Condo associations and homeowners are finding that even ‘good’ roof inspections may not satisfy insurers, leading to costly repairs and uncertainty about coverage. For a deeper understanding of the inspection process and its implications, see the key facts about milestone inspection reports for condo owners in Florida.
Florida Condo Insurance and Roof Inspections
Condo associations in Florida, including those in Jupiter and throughout the state, are facing stricter insurance requirements related to roof condition and age. While state law provides some protections for individual homeowners, these do not always extend to condominium communities.
Recent cases, such as the Ocean Parks Condominium Association, highlight how insurance companies are scrutinizing roof inspections more closely. Despite independent reports showing roofs in ‘good’ condition with years of useful life remaining, insurers may still demand costly replacements to maintain full coverage. The ongoing Florida condo insurance crisis further explains why these issues are escalating for many associations.
Why Roof Condition Matters for Florida Condo Insurance
The age and condition of a roof are critical factors for insurers when determining risk and policy eligibility. Florida’s exposure to hurricanes and severe weather means roofs are a primary defense against damage, making them a focus for insurance underwriters.
According to Mark Friedlander of the Insurance Information Institute, insurers now use advanced tools such as aerial imagery and AI-generated inspection reports. These technologies allow companies to assess property conditions more accurately and enforce stricter underwriting guidelines.
Technological Advances in Roof Inspections
Since 2018, insurance companies have adopted enhanced surveillance methods, including:
- Aerial photography to assess roof condition
- Data collection from municipal permits
- AI-driven inspection reports
These advances help insurers identify properties that may require repairs or replacements, sometimes regardless of recent inspection results.
Policy Cancellations and Nonrenewals on the Rise
In the first half of 2025, more than 1.5 million property insurance policies were canceled in Florida, with roof condition cited as a leading cause. Insurance agents report that cancellations and nonrenewals are often triggered by roof age or perceived deficiencies, even when inspections suggest otherwise.
At Ocean Parks in Jupiter, residents were informed that their roofs’ useful life had been reassessed, resulting in a sudden policy nonrenewal. The association now faces an estimated $4.5 million in roof replacement costs to maintain coverage from Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the only company willing to insure them at full replacement value.
Factors Leading to Policy Cancellations
- Roof age exceeding insurer guidelines
- Inspection reports not aligning with insurer standards
- Building condition and maintenance issues
- Technological data revealing outdated permits or repairs
Differences Between Homeowner and Condo Insurance Laws
Florida law changed in 2022 to protect homeowners from policy nonrenewals based solely on roof age. If an inspection shows at least five years of useful life remaining, insurers must continue coverage for homes with roofs 15 years old or older.
However, these protections do not apply to condo associations. Insurers can still refuse to renew condo policies, even if inspections indicate the roofs are in good condition. This regulatory gap leaves many condo residents vulnerable to sudden insurance changes and financial strain.
Condo Association Case: Ocean Parks in Jupiter
At the 328-unit Ocean Parks association, an independent inspection reported over 187 years of collective useful life across 13 residential buildings and three other structures. Despite this, the 2025 policy renewal showed no remaining life, and Citizens Property Insurance Corp. required immediate roof replacements to maintain coverage.
Residents, including David Reid, expressed frustration at the lack of clear explanations for why condos are treated differently from single-family homes under Florida insurance regulations. Similar challenges have been faced by other communities, such as the Villa Del Sol Condominium Association, highlighting the financial impact of insurance requirements.
Premium Increases for Older Roofs
Even when policies are not canceled, older roofs often lead to significantly higher insurance premiums. For example, Linda Bobillo of Coral Springs saw her annual premium rise from $4,500 in 2016 to $15,000 in 2025, despite having a durable clay tile roof expected to last decades.
Insurance agents report that many companies are unwilling to provide quotes for properties with older roofs. Some offer policies that exclude roof coverage entirely, a practice that can conflict with mortgage requirements and leave homeowners exposed to major repair costs.
Preferred Roofing Materials in Florida
- Clay tile: 25–50 years typical lifespan
- Concrete: Recommended for durability
- Metal: Increasingly preferred for longevity
Despite these materials’ durability, premiums still rise as roofs age, and insurers may decline coverage based on age alone.
How Condo Associations Can Respond
Condo boards and residents are advised to stay informed about their roofs’ condition and insurance requirements. Regular inspections, timely maintenance, and consultation with insurance professionals can help associations plan for potential repairs and navigate policy renewals.
It is important for condo associations to understand that, unlike single-family homeowners, they may not have legal recourse if an insurer decides not to renew based on roof age or condition. For guidance and regulatory information, associations can consult the Florida Department of Financial Services.
Key Steps for Condo Associations
- Schedule regular, professional roof inspections
- Keep detailed records of maintenance and repairs
- Consult with insurance agents familiar with Florida condo regulations
- Budget for potential roof replacements in advance
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Condo Insurance Challenges
What is the main reason for condo insurance policy cancellations in Florida?
The main reason for condo insurance policy cancellations in Florida is the age and condition of the roof. Insurers are increasingly using technology and stricter guidelines to assess risk, often leading to nonrenewals even after a positive inspection.
How much does roof age affect condo insurance premiums in Florida?
Roof age can significantly increase condo insurance premiums in Florida. Older roofs may lead to higher costs or even make it difficult to obtain coverage, regardless of the roofing material’s expected lifespan.
Are Florida condo associations protected by law from insurance nonrenewals based on roof age?
No, Florida law does not protect condo associations from insurance nonrenewals based solely on roof age. These protections apply only to individual homeowners, not to condominium communities.
Can you keep your condo insurance if your roof inspection shows ‘good’ condition?
Even if a roof inspection shows your condo roof is in ‘good’ condition, insurers may still require replacement or refuse to renew the policy. Insurance companies have their own standards and may not accept independent inspection results.
Where are Florida condo insurance challenges most common?
Florida condo insurance challenges are common throughout the state, especially in areas vulnerable to hurricanes like Jupiter, Port St. Lucie, and other coastal communities. These regions face increased scrutiny from insurers due to weather risks and aging buildings.
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