Universal Property & Casualty Insurance Company Review

Company Overview

Universal Property & Casualty Overview

Universal P&C is dedicated to serving Floridian homeowners, understanding the unique challenges they face due to weather-related risks. By working through independent agents, it matches your specific needs with suitable coverage, ensuring peace of mind. Whether it's storm damage or other risks, Universal P&C aims to provide effective protection for your biggest asset.

• Coverage Types: Homeowners, condo, renters, landlord insurance
• Discounts Offered: Safety feature discounts (e.g., burglar and fire alarms), loyalty discounts
• Claims Process: Options for filing claims online or over the phone
• Financial Stability: A, Exceptional rating from Demotech

Choosing the right insurance provider is crucial for your home's safety and your financial well-being. Universal P&C's extensive experience and commitment to Florida homeowners make it a compelling option. However, it's essential to consider all aspects, including customer service experiences. If Universal P&C meets your needs, don't hesitate to fill out our contact form. Let us guide you towards making an informed decision, ensuring your home is protected with the right coverage.

Financial Stability

Financial Summary

Products and Packages

Universal P&C Insurance Company Products and Packages

When you're eyeing insurance in Florida, Universal P&C Insurance Company's offerings are tailored to meet the diverse needs of homeowners. They understand the essence of having flexible options to protect your property against the unpredictable. With their range of products, you're not just buying insurance; you're securing peace of mind.

The company's product range spans across various types of properties and needs. Whether you own a home, rent an apartment, or have a rental property for income, Universal P&C's policies are designed to shield you from financial loss due to damage or liability.

Homeowners Policy (HO2, HO3, HO5, and HO8)

Homeowners policies from Universal Property & Casualty Insurance are designed for owner-occupied private residences. These policies offer comprehensive property and personal liability coverage, including protection for the Dwelling, Other Structures, Personal Property, Loss of Use, Personal Liability, and Medical Payments. Covered perils include fire, lightning, vandalism, windstorm, and liability for bodily injury or property damage to others.

Optional coverages are available to enhance protection, such as Personal Property Replacement Cost, Limited Water and Sewer Back-up and Sump Discharge or Overflow, Limited Animal Liability, Utility Service Line, Scheduled Jewelry or Other Personal Property, Mechanical Breakdown, Personal Injury, Debris Removal, Loss Assessment, Higher Personal Liability limits, and Ordinance or Law.

Discounts offered include Prior Insurance Discount, Claims Free Discount, Loyalty Discount, New Roof Discount, Burglar and Fire Alarm Discount, Sprinkler System Discount, Auto Companion Discount, Windstorm Protective Devices Discount, Fortified for Safer Living Discount, and Occupants Over the Age of 65 Discount.

Disclaimer: Some coverage options or discounts may not be available in all states. Please contact an agent for assistance with a quote and to discuss what options and/or discounts are available to you or in your state.

Condo Insurance / Unit Owners Policy (HO6)

The Condo Insurance policy, also known as a Unit Owners policy (HO6), is tailored for individual condominium unit owners. It provides property and personal liability coverage, specifically addressing building items that are the unit owner's responsibility, such as interior surfaces and appliances, which are not covered by the condominium association's policy.

Optional coverages include Personal Property Replacement Cost, Limited Water and Sewer Back-up and Sump Discharge or Overflow, Limited Animal Liability, Scheduled Jewelry or Other Personal Property, Unit rented to others, Mechanical Breakdown, Personal Injury, Loss Assessment, and Higher Personal Liability limits.

Available discounts include Prior Insurance Discount, Claims Free Discount, Loyalty Discount, Burglar and Fire Alarm Discount, Sprinkler System Discount, Auto Companion Discount, Windstorm Protective Devices Discount, and Occupants Over the Age of 65 Discount.

Disclaimer: Some coverage options or discounts may not be available in all states. Please contact an agent for assistance with a quote and to discuss what options and/or discounts are available to you or in your state.

Renters Insurance (HO4)

Universal Property & Casualty's Renters Insurance (HO4) is designed for tenants residing in dwellings, condominiums, or apartments used for residential purposes. This policy covers Personal Property, Loss of Use, Personal Liability, and Medical Payments to Others.

Optional coverages include Personal Property Replacement Cost, Limited Animal Liability, Scheduled Jewelry or Other Personal Property, Personal Injury, Higher Personal Liability limits, and Limited Water and Sewer Back-up and Sump Discharge or Overflow.

Discounts available are Prior Insurance Discount, Claims Free Discount, Loyalty Discount, Burglar and Fire Alarm Discount, Sprinkler System Discount, Windstorm Protective Devices Discount, and Occupants Over the Age of 65 Discount.

Disclaimer: Some coverage options or discounts may not be available in all states. Please contact an agent for assistance with a quote and to discuss what options and/or discounts are available to you or in your state.

Landlord (DP1, DP2, and DP3)

The Dwelling Property coverage forms (DP1, DP2, and DP3), often referred to as "Dwelling Fire" policies, are designed for landlords insuring rental or investment properties used for residential purposes and rented on an annual basis. These policies cover the Dwelling, Other Structures, Personal Property, Fair Rental Value, and Additional Living Expenses.

All Dwelling Property policy forms include coverage for fire and lightning. DP2 and DP3 policies extend coverage to additional perils.

Optional coverages include Premises Liability, Extended Coverage (available under DP1 only), and Vandalism and Malicious Mischief.

Pricing & Premiums

Universal P&C Insurance Company Premiums

Navigating insurance premiums can be tricky, but Universal P&C Insurance Company aims to simplify it for you. Their premiums are structured to reflect the real value of your home and the level of coverage you select. With transparency in pricing, you're sure to find a policy that fits your budget and offers solid protection.

Understand that premiums vary based on factors like your home's location, age, and safety features. Universal P&C provides discounts that can significantly reduce your costs. It's about finding a balance between adequate coverage and affordability, ensuring you're neither over nor underinsured.

• Competitive premium rates tailored to Florida's unique housing market
• Discounts available for safety features, such as burglar alarms and sprinkler systems
• A range of coverage options to suit different budgets and needs

Ready to get a clearer picture of your insurance costs? Fill out our contact form. We'll help you sift through the details, ensuring you get a premium you're comfortable with, for coverage that's right for your home.

Discounts and Credits

Discounts and Offers

Saving money on your insurance premiums is key, and Universal P&C Insurance Company recognises this. They offer a range of discounts that could lower your payments. These discounts are designed to reward you for making safety a priority and for your loyalty to the company.

• Prior insurance discount for continuous coverage
• New roof discount for updated roofing materials
• Loyalty discount rewarding long-term policyholders
• Sprinkler system discount for installed automatic sprinklers
• Discounts for seniors over the age of 65

Eligibility & Underwriting Requirements

Eligibility & Underwriting Requirements

When you're looking to secure insurance coverage with Universal P&C, it's important to understand the criteria that help us determine the right policy for your needs. These guidelines are in place to ensure accurate coverage and provide you with the most appropriate quote.

Property Details

• Ownership or Residency: You'll need to provide documentation that establishes your ownership of the property or your residency there, such as a deed or rental agreement.
• Construction Information: Details about your property's construction are essential. This includes the year it was built and the materials used in its construction.
• Safety Features: Be sure to provide a comprehensive list of any safety installations on your property, such as alarms and sprinkler systems. These may qualify you for certain discounts.
• Prior Insurance: Your previous insurance history may be considered to determine eligibility for loyalty or prior insurance discounts.
• Roof, Heating, and Electrical Updates: For most property types (excluding HO4), it should be confirmed on the application that roofing, heating, and electrical systems have been updated within the last 30 years.
• Four-Point Inspection: If your property is over 40 years old (and is not an HO4, HO6, or HO8), a Four-Point Inspection will be required. Universal P&C’s 4 PT Form or an equivalent is acceptable.
• Roof Condition and Age: All roof types must be in good condition, with no existing damage. For roofs 15 years or older, Universal P&C may request proof of the roof's remaining useful life, which would be at the homeowner's expense.  
• Plumbing Requirements:
  • Polybutylene pipes are not allowed (except on HO8 and DP1 policies).
  • PEX plumbing is not allowed (except on HO8 and DP1 policies), unless the property was built in 2010 or newer, or the PEX was updated in 2010 or newer.
• HVAC Requirements:
  • Portable space heaters are not permitted.
  • Gas heaters, portable stoves, and wood-burning stoves are not allowed unless professionally installed.
  • Open-flame devices are not allowed as a primary heat source.
  • Operable A/C is required statewide.
  • Operating heating vented in each room is required statewide, with exceptions for certain counties: Broward, Charlotte, Collier, Dade, De Soto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Monroe, Okeechobee, Osceola, Palm Beach, and Sarasota.  
• Electrical Requirements:
  • A minimum of 100 Amps is required.
  • Aluminum (branch wire), cloth, knob tube, or double tap wiring is not permitted (Alumiconn and Copalum are acceptable).
  • Fuses are not allowed.
  • Federal Pacific (including Stab Lok), Zinsco, Sylvania-Zinsco, or Challenger-Zinsco boxes are not allowed.  

Coverage A Limit Requirements

• For all forms except HO4 and HO8, 100% Replacement Cost Value (RCV) must be used for the Coverage A limit.
• For HO8, 100% Actual Cash Value (ACV) may be used if the Optional Replacement Cost Loss Settlement Endorsement is not selected. Properties over 100 years old must be written at ACV.  

Coverage Limits Based on Location, Wind Exposure, and Year Built

Coverage limits vary based on the property type (HO3, HO8, DP1, DP2/DP3, HO4, and HO6), the property's location, wind exposure (X-Wind in Windpool or All Wind & Non-Windpool), and the year it was built.  

• HO3:
  • Broward (Ter 35 & 37) and Palm Beach (Ter 38) counties, specific zip codes, built 1976 or newer:
    • X-Wind in Windpool: $250,000 - $800,000
    • All Wind & Non-Windpool: $250,000 - $1,000,000
  • All other counties, built 1950 or newer:
    • X-Wind in Windpool: $100,000 - $800,000
    • All Wind & Non-Windpool: $100,000 - $1,000,000  
• HO8:
  • All counties, built 1900 or newer:
    • X-Wind in Windpool: $100,000 - $800,000
    • All Wind & Non-Windpool: $100,000 - $1,000,000  
• DP1:
  • Panhandle counties, built 2002 or newer:
    • X-Wind in Windpool: $100,000 - $250,000
    • All Wind and Non-Windpool: $100,000 - $400,000  
  • All other counties, built 1900 or newer:
    • X-Wind in Windpool: $100,000 - $250,000
    • All Wind and Non-Windpool: $100,000 - $400,000  
• DP2/DP3:
  • Panhandle counties, built 2002 or newer:
    • X-Wind in Windpool: $100,000 - $250,000
    • All Wind and Non-Windpool: $100,000 - $500,000  
  • All other counties, built 1940 or newer:
    • X-Wind in Windpool: $100,000 - $250,000
    • All Wind and Non-Windpool: $100,000 - $500,000  
• HO4:
  • All other counties, built 1900 or newer:
    • Coverage A: N/A
    • Coverage C: $20,000 - $300,000  
• HO6:
  • Owner-occupied:
    • Coverage A: $15,000 - $500,000
    • Coverage C: $20,000 - $300,000  
  • Tenant-occupied:
    • Coverage A: $15,000 - $500,000
    • Coverage C: $6,000 (minimum and maximum)  

Additional Requirements

• Replacement Cost Estimator: A Replacement Cost Estimator is required if the Coverage A limit is below $50,000.  
• Wind Mitigation Credits: To be eligible for wind mitigation credits, you must submit the OIR-B1-1802 (Rev. 01/12) Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form, as required by the state.
  • An exception applies for buildings with 5 or more stories, where a Commercial Mitigation Form may be submitted for Reinforced Concrete Roof Deck credits (inspector qualifications apply).
  • To obtain Opening Protection credit, the OIR-B1-1802 (Rev. 01/12) Mitigation Form must be in the name of the insured.  
• Hip Roof Credit: For properties built in 2002 or later, you can submit color photos of all building sides (minimum 4 photos) to confirm a 100% hip roof system. The roof must meet the definition of a hip roof according to the OIR-B1-1802 (Rev. 01/12) Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form. If the company cannot determine the roof geometry from the photos, the credits will be removed, and you’ll need to provide the OIR-B1-1802 (Rev. 01/12) form to reinstate them.  

Ineligible Construction Types and Property Criteria

Universal P&C has specific restrictions on the types of properties they insure. These include:

• No mobile or trailer homes
• No dome homes or unusual construction
• No manufactured or modular homes
• No “do it yourself” construction
• No commercial property/business exposure (excluding home day care)
• No builder's risk (properties under construction or extensive renovation while unoccupied)
• No historic homes
• No properties partially or wholly over sand (acceptable under HO8 only)
• No farming, ranches, orchards, groves, or agriculture properties
• No properties over water
• No homes with Chinese drywall
• UPCIC policies that have been canceled or non-renewed for exposure and risk management reasons may not be bound.
• No Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS)
• No pre-existing damage
• No open foundation—lattice, stilts, piers, pilings, etc. (HO8 & DP1 forms are acceptable).
  • Exception: Properties with open foundations built in 2002 or newer, or properties meeting the definition of FEMA Diagram 6, are acceptable under the HO3, DP2, and DP3 forms.  
• Prior Losses: Prior sinkhole losses on the property or for the applicant(s) are not acceptable on any forms, regardless of the timeframe.  
• All forms except HO8:
  • No water damage, dog bite, fire, or theft losses in the last 60 months.
  • One loss (other than water, dog bite, fire, or theft), for less than $10,000, in the last 60 months is acceptable with a $1000 AOP deductible.
  • One remediated fire or water claim, or one dog bite or theft claim older than 60 months is acceptable.
  • DP1 only: One prior water loss during the last 60 months is acceptable.  
• HO8 form only:
  • No fire losses in the last 60 months.
  • HO8: Four (4) or less losses in the last 60 months is acceptable.
  • One remediated fire claim older than 60 months is acceptable.  
• Ineligible Dog Breeds: The following dog breeds are not eligible, and an animal liability exclusion applies regardless of breed for all forms:
  • Chow
  • Presa Canarios
  • Pit Bull
  • Staffordshire Terrier
  • Akita
  • Any mixed-breed dog that is half-breed or greater with one or more of the aforementioned breeds is not acceptable (except for the HO8 form).  

Miscellaneous Requirements

• No condo hotels, nursing/assisted living facilities, or student housing are allowed.
• Rentals must be on an annual basis (12 months). Sub-letting or short-term rentals are not acceptable.
• A deed/HUD statement or proof of prior insurance within 45 days is required to avoid a surcharge. Force-placed insurance or wind-only policies are not considered prior insurance.
• New purchase foreclosures or short-sold properties require current interior color photos (AC/heat, kitchen, all bathrooms, and interior electrical panel).
• HO6 policies must comply with Florida Statutes, Section 718.111. Properties under a Homeowner Association or single-family homes are ineligible on an HO6 form.
• Swimming pools must meet all barrier standards set forth in Florida's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act. Liability exclusion applies if standards are not met.
• Handrails are required on 3 or more steps.
• No vacant or unoccupied properties are allowed.
• Home daycares must be licensed and meet state requirements (business exclusions/limitations apply).
• Trampolines, diving boards, or pool slides are acceptable on HO3 and HO8 forms (HO3 liability exclusion applies).
• All forms PC 1-9 are acceptable. PC 10s are not acceptable (e.g., a fire station over 5 miles away), except for HO3 only—risks with construction types meeting the definition of Masonry or Superior in PC 10/10W are acceptable.
• Log homes are acceptable ONLY in PC 1-8 (PC 1x-8x, 1y-8y, 8B, 9, or 10 are not acceptable).
• 360 Home Replacement Cost Valuations are only acceptable if completed through the Atlas Processing System.  

Documents Required

To ensure your insurance policy is set up correctly, Universal P&C requires specific documentation. These documents provide essential information to help tailor your insurance policy to your specific circumstances.

• Proof of Ownership or Residency: A property deed or rental agreement is required to establish ownership or residency.
• Home Inspection Report: A recent home inspection report, if available, can be helpful.
• Renovation Details: Details of any recent renovations or improvements made to the property.
• Personal Property Inventory: An inventory of your personal possessions for personal property coverage purposes.

Application Process

Application Process

The application process with Universal P&C is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free. Initially, you'll provide details about your property and coverage needs. This is a critical step to ensure that your policy is accurately aligned with your specific requirements, providing comprehensive protection for your home.

After the initial details, you can proceed to apply online through Worth Insurance. Here, you can complete your application at your convenience. With a user-friendly interface and clear instructions, you'll be guided through each step. If questions arise, help is just a click away. Once you submit, you'll soon get a detailed quote tailored just for you.

Customer Reviews & Service

Customer Service

At Universal P&C Insurance Company, customer service is a cornerstone of their commitment to you. For inquiries or claims, their team is reachable during business hours to offer assistance. For personalized service and to discuss how Universal P&C can meet your needs, Worth Insurance is also here to guide you.

• Contact Universal P&C Insurance:some text
  • Service Phone Number: 800-425-9113
  • Claims Phone Number: 800-470-0599
  • Website: universalproperty.com
• Contact Worth Insurance for a tailored consultation:some text
  • Phone: 561-463-5814
  • Email: service@worthinsurance.com
  • Fill out our contact form for a detailed discussion on your insurance options.

Should you need to reach out for support or to discuss your insurance options further, please don’t hesitate to use the above details or fill out our contact form for a swift and helpful response.

Universal P&C Insurance Company Customer Reviews

So thankful for the amazing agents at Universal Property Insurance. Unfortunately we had a water leak that caused major water damage at our house, the agent who took my claim was helpful, knowledgeable, professional, patient and reassuring during the initial call.

S

Shaphawn A.

8/2/2024

By far the worst experience ever. The lack of communication from the examiner and even the management is actually quite disrespectful. They literally do not update you on anything and the examiner nor manager answers or returns phone calls. I am very aware that claims take time.

B

Brandon B.

7/31/2024

These people are Universal are terrible. I had a water heater leak. Seems simple. But, no, we're almost 60 days and they still will not call me back after 8 messages (including to supervisors) to tell me how this process works.

A

Anthony C.

8/2/2024

Made a claim on our roof in 2023 right before Thanksgiving. Claim was approved in mid December. Fast forward 3 MONTHS to March 2024 when we received our first check. Got the roof fixed early April and all paperwork sent in and submitted in mid April.

B

Barry F.

7/31/2024

This has been the worst experience with an insurance company I have ever had. I have reached out for 27 consecutive days with no response. While the customer service representatives are nice enough, they consistently redirect me to someone’s voicemail, and no one ever calls back.

S

Shannon J.

7/31/2024

I switched homeowners after Universal raised my rate. There was an oversight pertaining who was supposed to call with the cancellation notice. My new policy took effect 24Feb2024. Universal absolutely refused to back date my new policy period with my new carrier.

N

Nikki C.

7/31/2024

How to Make a Payment

How to Make a Payment

Making a payment to Universal P&C is a straightforward process, designed to be quick and secure, ensuring your coverage continues without interruption. It’s important to stay up-to-date with your payments to maintain your insurance protections, which Universal P&C has made convenient through multiple payment methods.

To simplify things further, here's a step-by-step guide to making a payment:

1. Log in to your Universal P&C online account or create one if you haven't already.
2. Go to the 'Payments' section to view your due premiums.
3. Choose your payment method: direct debit, credit card, or check.
4. Enter your payment details securely.
5. Review your payment to ensure all details are correct.
6. Confirm and submit your payment. You will receive a confirmation for your records.

How to File a Claim

How to File a Claim

Filing a claim with Universal P&C Insurance Company is a critical step in getting you the support and financial assistance you need after an unexpected event. The company has streamlined this process to be as stress-free as possible, ensuring you can focus on what matters most—your recovery and peace of mind.

Should you need to file a claim, Universal P&C's procedure is designed for efficiency and clarity:

1. Contact Universal P&C immediately after the incident to report your claim. You can do this via their phone line or online service.
2. Provide all the necessary details about the incident, including the date, a description of what happened, and any emergency measures taken.
3. Document the damage with photos or videos if possible, as this can be helpful during the assessment.
4. Complete any required claim documentation provided by Universal P&C.
5. Cooperate with the insurance adjuster to assess the damage.
6. Follow up with Universal P&C for updates on your claim status if necessary.

Key Competitors

Key Competitors

Universal Property & Casualty Insurance Company (UPCIC) is one of the largest homeowners insurance providers in Florida and has a substantial presence in other states as well. UPCIC competes with a range of other insurance companies, both large and small, that offer homeowners insurance tailored to regions prone to natural disasters, particularly hurricanes and floods.

One of UPCIC's primary competitors is Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, which serves as Florida’s insurer of last resort. While Citizens caters mainly to those who struggle to find coverage elsewhere, its large market presence makes it a significant competitor in the Florida market.

Additionally, UPCIC faces competition from Florida-based insurers like Tower Hill Insurance and Heritage Property & Casualty Insurance, both of which offer specialized homeowners insurance products that cater to the unique risks associated with living in Florida. These companies have built strong local reputations and offer policies that address the challenges of insuring homes in hurricane-prone areas.

UPCIC also competes with national insurers such as Progressive and Nationwide, which offer a wide range of insurance products, including homeowners insurance, with strong customer service and claims processing capabilities. 

These national companies often attract customers through their extensive resources and broad product offerings. Furthermore, newer, tech-driven insurers like Kin Insurance and Slide Insurance are also emerging as competitors, appealing to tech-savvy homeowners looking for convenient, digital-first insurance solutions.

Overall, UPCIC’s large market share, deep understanding of the Florida insurance landscape, and broad product offerings position it strongly against these competitors, making it a key player in the region’s homeowners insurance market.

Conclusion

Wrapping Up

Universal P&C offers solid financial stability and diverse insurance options for Florida homeowners. Despite some customer service concerns, it remains a strong choice. Interested in learning more? Fill out our quote form for personalized insurance advice.