What You Really Need to Know About Home Insurance in The Villages, FL
A Vibrant Community Built for Living Well
If you’re planning a move to The Villages, Florida, you’re probably picturing golf carts, sunshine, and good times. And you’re right! But there’s one important thing you need to be ready for—home insurance in Florida.
It’s not like what you’re used to up north. Between roof rules, flood zones, and golf cart coverage, there are some surprises that can catch new buyers off guard.
Let’s walk through the basics—what it covers, what it doesn’t, and what you should watch out for before buying your dream home in The Villages.
What Kind of Insurance Do I Need?
Homeowners Insurance
This covers the house itself—fire, theft, wind, and more. Most policies also include hurricane protection, but there’s often a special deductible just for hurricane damage. It’s a good idea to ask about that upfront.
Flood Insurance
Flooding is not covered under regular homeowners insurance. You’ll need a separate flood policy if your home is in a flood zone—or even if you just want extra peace of mind during storm season.
Sinkhole Insurance
Yes, Florida has sinkholes. Most policies only cover extreme cases—called “catastrophic collapse.” If you want full sinkhole protection, you’ll need to request it (and pay a bit more for it).
Golf Cart Insurance
This is The Villages—we use golf carts like cars! If you’re only using it around the neighborhood, you may be covered under your homeowners policy. But if you’re driving it on public roads, you’ll likely need a separate golf cart policy.
How Much Does Insurance Cost?
These are rough estimates for homes in The Villages as of 2025:
| Type of Insurance | Typical Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Homeowners Insurance | $1,800–$3,000 |
| Flood Insurance | $500+ |
| Sinkhole Insurance | $300–$600 (extra) |
| Golf Cart Insurance | $100–$300 |
Prices vary depending on your home’s age, location, and condition—but these numbers give you a general idea.
Surprise! Your Roof or Water Heater May Be Too Old
Here’s something a lot of buyers don’t realize:
Even if the house is in great shape, your insurance company may say “no thanks” if the roof or water heater is too old.
| Item | When Insurers May Require Replacement | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Shingle Roof | 15 years old | $10,000–$18,000 |
| Tile Roof | 20–25 years old | $20,000–$35,000 |
| Water Heater | 10 years old | $1,200–$2,000 |
Insurers care about age, not just condition. So when you’re house-hunting, be sure to ask:
How old is the roof? How old is the water heater?
It could affect your ability to get coverage—or cost you extra.
What’s Not Covered?
Even with good insurance, some things are just not included unless you ask for them specifically:
-
Flood damage (separate policy)
-
Mold or termite damage
-
Normal wear and tear
-
Plumbing or electrical issues in older homes
Make sure to go over your policy carefully with your insurance agent so you know what’s covered—and what isn’t.
How Do I Find the Right Insurance Agent?
Look for a local insurance broker who understands Florida rules. They can compare multiple companies and find you the best fit.
Ask your real estate agent (that’s me!) for a recommendation. I work with trusted local pros who know the ins and outs of The Villages.
One Quick Note:
I’m not a licensed insurance agent. I’m here to help guide you through the home-buying process and help you ask the right questions. For specific policy details and pricing, you’ll want to speak directly with a licensed insurance expert.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home in The Villages should be exciting—not stressful. With a little preparation and the right team, you’ll be ready to navigate the insurance landscape like a pro.
So ask about the roof, check the age of the water heater, and don’t forget about that golf cart!
And if you ever have questions—I’m just a call, email, or golf cart ride away.
