Insurance Non-Renewal? Why It Blocks Most Buyers and What You Can Do

July 28, 2026
By Brandin

A non-renewal notice from your home insurance company is stressful, and it can affect selling, too.

Why it matters to buyers

Almost every buyer using a mortgage needs homeowners insurance in place at closing. If insurers won't cover the house, usually because of the roof, electrical, or plumbing, that buyer usually can't close until the problem is fixed.

The 15-year roof rule

Florida law says insurers can't refuse or non-renew a policy based only on a roof being under 15 years old. If your roof is 15 years or older, you can get it inspected. If the inspection shows at least five years of useful life left, the insurer can't refuse coverage based on age alone. Insurers can still look at the roof's condition and other factors, so a passing inspection doesn't guarantee coverage.

Your options

• Get a roof inspection if your roof is 15 years or older. It may be enough.
• Fix the main item (roof, panel, or plumbing) and list it.
• List it as-is to cash buyers and investors.
• Sell to me for cash. I don't need a lender, so I can buy it before the repairs are done.

More on this: four-point inspections and selling as-is.

Want to see both numbers for your house, a cash offer and what it would likely sell for listed? Call me at (407) 212-7381 or send me the address.

I’m a licensed Florida real estate broker, not a lawyer or tax advisor. For legal or tax advice about your situation, talk to a Florida attorney or CPA.