Citizen's Prop. Insurance Offers Cheaper Option

MIAMI (CBS4) – Property owners covered by Citizens Property Insurance may have a cheaper option that they are not aware of.

So far only 47 people have signed up for the less inexpensive coverage offered by the state's 'insurer of last resort'.

"It sounds good but I don't remember hearing about it," said Doral homeowner Marco Villalobos.

The HO-8 policy covers losses including fires, hurricanes, explosions and vandalism. On average, it's about 23-percent cheaper than the standard Citizens policy.

However, there are some restrictions. The policy is only available on homes that are older than 50 years old and worth less than $200,000. It also has other restrictions, including caps on theft claims and replacement cost payments.  it also offers very limited coverage.

"I assume it's for their best and not for the best of their customers,"  said Villalobos.

Some lawmakers think there there should be more done to lower insurance costs for everyone.

"Our offices are getting bombarded by insurance calls that my insurance is astronomical," said Rep. Frank Artiles. "It's becoming cost prohibitive to live in South Florida.

Last year the Florida Legislature mandated that Citizens offer the cheaper coverage.