Citizens Property Insurance is Florida's state backed property insurer. A lender can accept a Citizens policy if it meets the lender's insurance checklist, but Citizens has its own rules: a four point inspection on properties over 20 years old and roof age limits. Get a quote early and send it to your lender.
Lenders do not accept or reject an insurer by name. They check that the policy meets their requirements for coverage amount, deductible, named insured and mortgagee, and that proof of insurance is delivered before closing. Fannie Mae's insurance chapter lists the standard property and flood insurance requirements, and each lender adds its own checklist.
Citizens publishes its own eligibility requirements. It requires a four point inspection for properties more than 20 years old. Roofs older than 25 years for shingle and similar coverings, or 50 years for tile, slate, clay, concrete or metal, require documentation of at least five years of remaining useful life. If less remains, proof of a full roof replacement is required before a policy is written.
Citizens also requires a sinkhole inspection in certain cases when an owner wants optional sinkhole loss coverage, and it will not issue that coverage until it reviews and approves the inspection.
Selected Citizens eligibility rules
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Four point inspection | Required for properties more than 20 years old |
| Roof age, shingle and similar | More than 25 years old needs documentation of at least five years of remaining useful life |
| Roof age, tile, slate, clay, concrete or metal | More than 50 years old needs the same documentation |
| Sinkhole loss coverage | Inspection required in certain cases before coverage is issued |
From Citizens' published inspection requirements. Confirm current rules.
What to do
- Ask a Florida agent whether the home qualifies for private coverage or only Citizens.
- Order the inspections the insurer requests.
- Give the lender the binder and the declarations page early.
- Ask the lender whether it has any restriction on the coverage you are buying.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Confirm with your title company or attorney.
Sources
- Citizens Property Insurance, Inspections. Four point, roof and sinkhole inspection requirements. Source type: Official. Checked October 17, 2026.
- Fannie Mae Selling Guide, Chapter B7-3, Property and Flood Insurance. Standard insurance requirements lenders apply. Source type: Official. Checked October 17, 2026.