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23160 Fashion Dr, Suite 226, Estero, FL, 33928

Florida Insurance from Local Experts Based in Estero, FL

Charley Insurance is based in Estero, FL, in the heart of Lee County. We serve homeowners and businesses across Southwest Florida, including Bonita Springs, Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Marco Island, Lehigh Acres, Ave Maria, Babcock Ranch, Punta Gorda, Sarasota, and Lakewood Ranch. Essentially Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties. Being local isn't just a tagline. It means we understand the specific underwriting environment you're in.

Florida is one of the most beautiful places in the world to live and one of the most challenging to insure. From hurricane-force winds and storm surge along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts to widespread inland flooding that catches homeowners off guard, the risks here are real, frequent, and expensive. Standard insurance policies are often not enough. Florida's unique geography, building codes, and storm history demand coverage that's specifically structured for this state, not a one-size-fits-all policy built somewhere else.

At Charley Insurance, we specialize in exactly that, because we take pride in being local to Southwest Florida. If you're looking for home, auto, commercial, flood, or umbrella coverage in SWFL, we offer it all in one place here. SWFL is its own underwriting environment, with hurricane wind exposure, FEMA flood zones AE and VE along the coast, roof age scrutiny on homes built before 2002, and the deductible math around named-storm versus all-other-perils that confuses most homeowners. We sit down with you, walk through what your current policy actually covers (and doesn't), and rebuild the package so it reflects how a SWFL home actually gets damaged, not how a generic Florida quote engine assumes it will.

For deeper guides on hurricane prep, flood zones, and roof age requirements, explore our Southwest Florida insurance resources.

239-280-5555

LOCAL TESTIMONIALS

"Sasha was a huge help to us as we shopped around for quotes. Our existing carrier had increased our renewal by several thousand dollars, despite no claims or any material changes to the home. Sasha took on the challenge and not only found us a better carrier but also brought the cost down by more than $1,000 below what we had been paying."

— Paul Fox

"Saved me thousands on my home and auto insurances. Very friendly and easy to work with. Recommend highly."

— Patrick Egan

"Sasha was a great help finding me house insurance at a great price. Sasha was personable, knowledgeable and I would recommend her to anyone searching for insurance."

— Mark & Sue Armstrong

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Frequently Asked Questions

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE - FLORIDA

  • Independent agencies work for you, not the insurance companies. We shop from multiple top-rated carriers to find the best coverage at the best price, customized to your needs, not a one-size-fits-all plan.

  • We’re local, we’re personal, and we’re experienced. With over 50 years of combined industry knowledge, we take pride in protecting families with insurance that fits real life, not just the fine print.

  • Absolutely! We’ll walk you through the process, review your current policy, and make sure your transition is smooth!

  • We’ll guide you every step of the way. While your insurance company handles the actual claim, we’re your advocate in helping you understand the process and making sure things stay on track.

  • Once a year is a good rule of thumb. Life changes. Buying a new car, installing a new roof, or even adding a teen driver can all affect your coverage and rate.

  • Homeowners insurance is not legally required in Florida, but if you have a mortgage, your lender will require you to carry it. Cash purchases don't legally require insurance, but it's highly recommended given Florida's hurricane exposure.

  • Standard Florida homeowners policies typically cover the structure of your home, personal property inside, liability protection if someone is injured on your property, additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable, and other structures like detached garages or sheds.

  • Standard policies exclude flood damage (requires separate flood insurance), earthquake damage (requires separate coverage), normal wear and tear, maintenance issues, and intentional damage.

  • Actual cash value (ACV) pays the original cost minus depreciation. Replacement cost coverage pays what it actually costs to rebuild or repair with new materials, without factoring in depreciation. Replacement cost is typically more expensive but provides better protection.

  • Your dwelling coverage should equal the actual cost to rebuild your home in today's market, not its market value. Use a replacement cost estimator or consult an insurance agent to determine accurate coverage.

  • A hurricane deductible is a separate, typically higher deductible that applies specifically to hurricane damage. In Florida, options are usually $500, 2%, 5%, or 10% of the insured dwelling value. The higher the deductible you choose, the lower your premium.

  • Yes, hurricane damage from wind is covered under standard homeowners policies in Florida. However, damage from flooding that occurs during a hurricane requires separate flood insurance. Wind damage from named storms is a covered peril.

  • No, you do not need a separate policy. Wind and hurricane coverage is included in standard homeowners policies in Florida. However, you may have a separate, higher hurricane deductible applied.

  • Insurers can cancel for non payment of premiums, home condition, too many claims, etc. They typically must provide 10 days notice before cancellation.

  • No. Standard policies cap jewelry coverage at around $1,500 and art at similar limits. For valuable items, you can add scheduled endorsements (floaters) to increase coverage limits.

  • Document all damage with photos/video, make emergency repairs to prevent further damage, contact your insurer immediately, and provide detailed claim information. Keep receipts for all repair expenses.

  • A claims adjuster is an insurance professional who investigates your claim, assesses the damage, reviews your coverage, and determines what the insurance company will pay toward repairs.

  • Simple claims may be resolved in a few days, but hurricane related claims can take a few weeks or longer.

  • A supplemental claim is an additional claim filed after the initial settlement when contractors discover additional damage during repairs that wasn't visible in the initial damage assessment.

  • We recommend getting at least three estimates from local reputable companies. Some companies may require you to use their preferred contractors, while some others give you the liberty to choose who you want.

  • This refers to the increasing costs of repairs and rebuilding materials. Some policies include inflation protection that automatically increases your dwelling coverage by a set percentage annually to keep up with rising construction costs.

  • Not immediately. Florida law requires insurers to maintain coverage during the policy period unless they follow specific procedures and provide proper notice. However, they may not renew your policy when it expires.

  • Comprehensive covers non collision damage (theft, weather, vandalism). Collision covers damage from hitting another vehicle or object.

  • Yes. The minimum required liability is typically $10,000, but many we recommend $250,000 or $500,000 depending on your assets, as liability lawsuits can exceed minimum coverage. We may even recommend purchasing an Umbrella policy to increase those limits.

  • ALE covers the cost of temporary housing, meals, and other living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable from a covered loss. It typically covers up to a percentage of your dwelling coverage (often 20-30%).

Frequently Asked Questions

FLOOD INSURANCE - FLORIDA

  • No. Flood damage is NOT covered by standard homeowners, renters, or condo insurance. You must purchase separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.

  • Yes, if you have a mortgage in any FEMA-identified flood zone. However, nearly one-third of NFIP flood insurance claims come from outside high-risk zones, so it's recommended for all Florida homeowners.

  • NFIP flood insurance covers building coverage (structure, foundation, electrical systems) and contents coverage (furniture, appliances, belongings). It does NOT cover damage from surface water from failed drainage, groundwater seeping, or sump pump failure.

  • Flood insurance does not cover damage from failed or inadequate drainage, sump pump backup, underground water seepage, mud or sediment damage, or property outside the covered structure.

  • NFIP policies typically have a 30-day waiting period from the date of application before coverage becomes effective, so you cannot wait until a hurricane is approaching to purchase flood insurance.

  • NFIP policies typically cost around $700 per year in high-risk areas, with Preferred Risk Policies for low-to-moderate risk areas costing less. Private flood insurance may offer competitive rates in some cases.

  • Some insurance companies participate in the NFIP and can sell you a policy. Additionally, some private insurers now offer standalone flood insurance as an alternative to the NFIP.

  • Building coverage protects the structure, foundation, and permanently installed equipment. Contents coverage protects your personal belongings inside the home.

  • NFIP policies have strict limitations on basement coverage. Finished basements typically receive limited coverage regardless of the actual value. Many homeowners in flood-prone areas purchase private flood insurance for better basement coverage.

  •  Yes. Hurricane insurance covers wind damage, not flooding. Storm surge and heavy rainfall-related flooding require separate flood insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

HURRICANE INSURANCE - FLORIDA

  • Hurricanes produce two main types of damage: wind damage (covered by homeowners insurance) and flooding from storm surge and heavy rainfall (requires separate flood insurance). Both can occur in the same storm.


  • Storm surge is a rapid rise in sea level caused by hurricane winds and low pressure, pushing ocean water onto land. Damage from storm surge is considered flood damage and requires flood insurance.

  •  Evacuation insurance is not a standard product. However, some policies may cover temporary housing costs if you're forced to evacuate, similar to additional living expenses coverage.


  • Most Floridians have hurricane coverage through their standard homeowners policy. However, some have high hurricane deductibles or use Citizens Property Insurance, Florida's insurer of last resort.

  • Yes, coastal properties typically pay significantly more for homeowners insurance (often 50-100% more) due to higher hurricane risk. Deductibles are also typically higher in coastal areas.


  • Wind mitigation includes reinforced roofing, hurricane straps, impact-resistant windows, and roof shape modifications. Many insurers offer discounts (5-15%) for homes with wind mitigation features.

  • Yes. You can hire a public adjuster or an independent adjuster to review the assessment, and you can request an appraisal if you disagree with the insurer's determination of damage.

  • Appraisal is a process where a neutral third party (selected by you and the insurer) determines the actual damage amount when there's disagreement. Each side pays a portion of the appraisal fee.


  • Follow local evacuation orders from your county emergency management. Different areas have different risk levels, and evacuation is mandatory in high-risk zones when ordered.

  • Trim trees, secure outdoor items, install storm shutters or hurricane film, reinforce doors and garage doors, and ensure your roof is in good condition. Review your insurance coverage annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE - FLORIDA

  • Yes, Florida requires minimum liability coverage of $10,000 for property damage and $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP), making it a no-fault state.


  • PIP covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers regardless of who is at fault for the accident. Florida requires $10,000 minimum PIP coverage.

  • At minimum: liability (property damage and bodily injury) and PIP. Recommended: comprehensive and collision, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and medical payments coverage.


  • Comprehensive covers damage to your vehicle from non-collision events like theft, weather, vandalism, hitting an animal, or falling objects.

  • Liability covers damage you cause to other people or property. Collision covers damage to your own vehicle from hitting another vehicle or object.


  • Yes, insurers can refuse to renew for multiple accidents, tickets, high claims frequency, or other reasons, but must provide notice per Florida law.

  • Uninsured motorist coverage protects you if hit by a driver with no insurance or in a hit-and-run accident. Underinsured motorist coverage applies when the other driver's coverage is insufficient.

  • If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, rental cars are typically covered up to your policy limits. However, rental car companies offer their own coverage, so review both options.



  • Yes, your auto insurance typically covers the vehicle regardless of who drives it (with permission). The driver's insurance serves as secondary coverage.

  • No, the owner's auto insurance covers the vehicle. Your insurance would serve as secondary coverage, but the owner's policy is primary.

  • Some insurers automatically forgive your first at-fault accident if you have a clean driving record, preventing a rate increase. Others offer it as a paid add-on.

  • Accidents typically affect your rates for 3-5 years, though Florida law limits how much your premium can increase based on an accident.

  • Gap insurance covers the difference between your car's value and your loan balance if the car is totaled. It's useful for financed or leased vehicles.

  • A deductible is what you pay out-of-pocket for a claim before insurance coverage begins. Higher deductibles mean lower premiums but more out-of-pocket costs.

  • It depends on whether you file a claim. If you file, it typically increases your rates. Minor damage might be cheaper to pay out-of-pocket if it's below your deductible.

  • Yes, urban areas typically have higher rates due to greater accident frequency and theft risk. Rural areas generally have lower premiums.

  • Insurers cannot immediately drop you during the policy period, but may decline to renew when your policy expires.

  • You could face fines ($150-$500), suspension of license and vehicle registration, and personal liability for damages caused to others.

  • If a vehicle is parked and not driven on public roads, it doesn't legally require insurance, but if it could be damaged, comprehensive coverage is a good idea.

  • Common discounts include bundling (home + auto), multi-vehicle, good driver, paperless/autopay, defensive driving courses, and low mileage.

Frequently Asked Questions

BUSINESS INSURANCE - FLORIDA

  • Most small businesses need general liability, commercial property, workers' compensation (if employees), and possibly professional liability, depending on your industry.


  • It's not legally required, but many clients and landlords require proof of general liability insurance before signing contracts or leases.

  • It covers bodily injury to third parties, property damage to others' property, and legal defense costs if you're sued by a client or customer.


  • A BOP bundles general liability and commercial property insurance at a lower cost than purchasing separately. It's available for small, low-risk businesses.

  • Yes, if you have employees. Florida requires workers' compensation insurance for most businesses. Sole proprietors and independent contractors typically don't need it.


  • It covers medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages for employees injured on the job, and protects employers from liability lawsuits by employees.

  • Yes, business insurance premiums are typically deductible as ordinary business expenses.

  • Also called errors and omissions insurance, it covers claims that your business caused financial loss due to negligence, errors, or failure to perform.



  • Yes, homeowners insurance typically doesn't cover business activities. Even home-based businesses need commercial general liability and possibly commercial property coverage.

  • It covers your business equipment, inventory, furniture, and fixtures from damage or loss due to covered perils like fire, theft, or weather.

  • No, employee injuries are covered by workers' compensation, not general liability. General liability covers non-employees.

  • Excluded are employee injuries (workers' comp), auto accidents (commercial auto), intentional acts, criminal acts, and contractual liability.

  • This depends on your industry and asset size. Many businesses carry $300,000 to $2 million in general liability coverage.

  • Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage above your primary policies. It's useful for businesses with significant assets or high liability risk.

  • Yes, commercial property insurance covers hurricane wind damage, but flood damage requires separate flood insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

LIFE INSURANCE - FLORIDA

  • Term life insurance provides coverage for a specified period (10, 20, or 30 years) at a fixed premium. If you die during the term, your beneficiary receives the death benefit. No death = no payout.


  • Whole life insurance is permanent coverage lasting your entire lifetime, as long as premiums are paid. It builds cash value over time that you can borrow against or withdraw.

  • Term life is significantly cheaper (often 50-80% less expensive) than whole life because it only provides pure protection without investment components.


  • Anyone whose death would create financial hardship for dependents, including those with mortgages, children, or debts. Even those without dependents may want coverage for funeral expenses.

  • A common guideline is 10 times your annual income, but factors like mortgages, debts, children's education, and age should also be considered. Use a life insurance calculator for guidance.


  • The death benefit is what your beneficiary receives when you die. Cash value is money that whole life policies accumulate over time that you can access while living.

  • Only whole life (and some universal life) policies with cash value allow loans. Term life has no cash value component, so loans aren't available.

  • Your coverage ends, and you lose protection. Some policies have a grace period of 30-60 days to pay overdue premiums before coverage lapses.



  • Some term policies have conversion options allowing you to convert to whole life without a new medical exam. This is usually available within a specified period.

  • Your beneficiary is the person or entity you designate to receive your death benefit. You can name multiple beneficiaries and specify percentages.

  • Many policies require a medical exam, though no-exam or simplified-issue policies are available with higher premiums and lower coverage limits.

  • Whole life insurance can be part of retirement planning due to cash value accumulation, but financial advisors often recommend dedicated retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs.

  • Yes, but premiums may be significantly higher or coverage may have exclusions. Some conditions make obtaining insurance very difficult.

  • Guaranteed issue policies don't require medical underwriting or medical exams. They're designed for people with health issues but have lower coverage limits and higher premiums.

  • Generally no, because the death benefit becomes part of your estate and may be subject to estate taxes and probate. Name specific individuals or trusts instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

RV INSURANCE - FLORIDA

  • Yes, Florida requires insurance for motorized RVs with engines and steering wheels, similar to car insurance requirements.


  • RV insurance covers liability (injuries/property damage), comprehensive (theft, weather, vandalism), collision (accidents), and may include emergency roadside assistance.

  • No, RVs require specialized RV insurance because they're classified differently from standard vehicles. Some auto policies may provide limited coverage for trailers.


  • Motorhome insurance covers the vehicle itself similar to auto insurance. Trailer insurance covers non-motorized trailers and can be added to auto or homeowners policies.

  • RV policies include personal property coverage for belongings inside the RV, which is important since belongings aren't covered by homeowners insurance while in an RV.


  • Yes, you can maintain liability coverage even when the RV is stored. Many insurers offer discounted rates for seasonal coverage when the RV isn't in use.

  • Full-time RV insurance is designed for people whose primary residence is an RV. It includes additional coverage options like emergency expenses and extended liability.

  • Many RV insurance policies include emergency roadside assistance. Additional roadside service plans are also available from third-party providers.



  • Hurricane wind damage to a parked RV may be covered under your RV policy's comprehensive coverage, depending on the policy terms.

  • Many insurers offer bundling discounts when you combine RV, auto, and homeowners policies. Contact your insurance agent about multi-policy discounts.