My understanding of insurance costs and the age of home is not just the age of the roofing but the construction method used. I was informed that in 2001 Florida had a new building code requiring rafter straps to help keep the roof intact in high winds. I don't know if that went into effect immediately or maybe in 2002 once it had been approved and published to builders. Most homes north of 466 pre-date that code but not all. South of 466 I think they start around 2004-5 and have the strapping. There are a lot of homes built after 2001 north of 466. When I checked I estimated the older non-strap homes to add maybe $800-$1000 to the annual insurance cost and some companies won't even cover the older homes built without straps. I know I read about someone that retrofitted their home at some point with the straps but the insurance didn't seem to care. Everyone has a choice on location, taste, budget, etc. so there is no right or wrong place to live.
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