Home Insurance Doesn’t Cover These 5 Big Risks — And Most Homeowners Don’t Realize It

Home Insurance Doesn’t Cover These 5 Big Risks — And Most Homeowners Don’t Realize It

You probably assume your home insurance covers “everything.” Until it doesn’t.
Most standard homeowners policies protect against things like fire, theft, or certain types of storm damage — but they don’t cover some of the biggest threats Florida homeowners actually face.

Here are five major risks your policy likely doesn’t include (and what to do about them).

1. Flooding

One of the most common — and costly — gaps.
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage, whether it’s from a hurricane, heavy rain, or rising water.

Why it matters: Just one inch of floodwater can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage.

Solution: Purchase separate flood insurance through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private carrier. Even homes outside of flood zones can be at risk.

2. Hurricanes and Windstorms (in part)

In Florida, hurricane coverage isn’t always straightforward.
While wind damage may be covered, many policies carry separate hurricane deductibles — often a percentage of your home’s insured value.

Why it matters: You could be on the hook for thousands before your policy even kicks in.

Solution: Review your policy carefully. Ask your agent whether windstorm or hurricane coverage is included or requires a separate endorsement.

3. Sinkholes and Ground Movement

Florida’s soil makes sinkholes more than a rare occurrence.
Unfortunately, most standard policies don’t automatically cover them — or any other ground movement, like settling or earth shifting.

Why it matters: Repairs for structural damage from sinkholes can reach six figures.

Solution: Look into sinkhole or catastrophic ground collapse coverage add-ons. These can be added for a reasonable premium in most counties.

4. Termite and Pest Damage

It’s slow, silent, and completely excluded.
Damage from termites, rodents, or any kind of infestation isn’t covered by homeowners insurance — because it’s considered preventable through maintenance.

Why it matters: Termites cause billions in property damage every year, and repairs are fully out of pocket.

Solution: Schedule regular pest inspections and consider a termite bond or warranty plan through a local pest control company.

5. Normal Wear and Tear

Home insurance is designed for sudden and accidental damage — not gradual deterioration.
If your roof leaks because it’s old or your plumbing bursts due to corrosion, don’t expect a payout.

Why it matters: Aging systems and deferred maintenance are the leading reasons claims get denied.

Solution: Keep up with routine maintenance and document repairs. Preventative work is your best “coverage” here.

The Bottom Line

Home insurance protects you from the unexpected — but only if you know where the gaps are.
Review your policy once a year, especially if you live in Florida where weather, soil, and insurance rules create unique risks.