Coastal is your insurance agency — we help you find and manage your insurance, but we don’t set the rates. Any premium increase comes directly from the insurance carrier, based on their underwriting guidelines, claims history, changes in risk, and in most cases, rate increases are approved by the State.   We’re here to help you understand the change and will always review other options as well for you.

Citizens is often the only option when private carriers decline coverage, usually due to factors like location (e.g., coastal or high-risk zones), the age of the home, or claims history. Citizens is a state-backed insurer that provides coverage when no private companies are willing to.

Depending on the insurance company, there are discounts for owning a home, for example.  We are the agency, not the carrier, so the various discounts available are determined by the insurance company.

No—Coastal is an agency, not a carrier, so we don’t offer a direct discount for bundling. Any multi-line discounts would be given by the Insurance Company, if applicable.

No, flood coverage is not included in a standard home insurance policy. It must be purchased separately, either through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. We can provide a separate flood quote for you to review.

If your home was fully rebuilt — including new systems like electrical, plumbing, and roof — it could qualify as new construction, which may reduce your premium. We’ll need to review the details to confirm eligibility for any discounts.

No. Standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage.   Flood insurance requires a separate policy. 

Standard policies do not fully cover business-related equipment or liability. You may need a rider or a separate business policy.  We need to review exactly what business you are conducting at your home.

Yes, but only a small amount is covered in your homeowner's policy.  High-value items most of the time need a separate policy known as an inland marine policy for full protection.  If you endorse your homeowners, the items will not be covered away from your home.  The Jewelry policy / inland marine is normally covered worldwide.   

The coverage is usually 10% of your personal property limit (Coverage C).

  • For example: If your policy covers $100,000 in personal property, only $10,000 may apply to items in storage. 

Renovations can increase your home’s value, meaning you may need more coverage. Inform your agent before starting major work to stay protected. You may or may not need what’s called a builder's risk, depending on the scope of work being performed and the insurance carrier. 

Actual cash value (ACV) reimburses for the cost of new, less depreciation.  Replacement cost coverage provides funds to replace items at their current market price without factoring in depreciation.

Flood insurance may still be necessary, as flooding can occur in unexpected circumstances. It’s essential to evaluate the risk and consider purchasing flood insurance if needed.  If you don’t live in a flood zone and your home is elevated above what is called the base flood, the rates are very reasonable.  Please have us explore your options before deciding not to carry flood insurance

Credit history may impact insurance rates, as insurers may use credit-based insurance scores to assess risk. Maintaining a good credit history can contribute to lower insurance premiums.

Many factors influence insurance premiums, depending on the type of coverage.   As to automobile insurance, age, gender, location, coverage limits, deductible amount, and the policyholder’s history, such as driving, credit history.

Yes, auto insurance premiums can increase after an accident, especially if the policyholder is found at fault. Accidents may be considered in the insurer’s assessment of risk.

Insurance increases occur for several reasons, like nationwide claims. Coastal is your insurance agency — we help you find and manage your insurance, but we don’t set the rates. Any premium increase comes directly from the insurance carrier, based on their underwriting guidelines, claim history, or changes in risk.   We’re here to help you understand the change and will always review other options as well for you.

We have many fine insurance companies that do offer wind are always considered as on location, age of property, roof attachments, etc..  Keep in mind you can mitigate the high cost of wind coverage by having a roof that has plenty of useful life left, IMPACT glass or approved shutters as well.  Many additional factors

Because they know the risk of huge losses due to hurricanes

It is possible, if we have no storms anywhere, but not likely.   Especially if we get hit with another large hurricane.  Please understand if a large hurricane hits anywhere, it will affect the reinsurance companies.  If reinsurance rates go up, the insurance company you are placed with will have to pass that increase on to you.  One way to deal with rate increases is to protect your home against wind damage.  Large discounts are available on new roofs, IMPACT glass, and or shutters