If you run a business in Central Florida, be prepared: your commercial insurance premiums may be going up again this year.

Tariffs, inflation, and a busy hurricane season are all driving up the cost of materials, equipment, and repairs — and that means higher insurance costs for many local companies.

"We’re seeing a perfect storm for premium increases right now," says Tanya Rodriques, owner of Evolve Insurance Group in Altamonte Springs. "When the price of steel, lumber, and mechanical parts goes up, so does the cost to repair or rebuild after a loss. Insurance companies adjust their numbers — and business owners end up paying more at renewal. I seeat least a 10% price hike for many of my business owners this year."

Tariffs & Inflation Are Pushing Costs Up

Recent tariffs on imported materials like steel, aluminum, and key HVAC and equipment parts are raising prices across the board.

"A trucking company that used to replace a box truck for $80,000 is now paying closer to $100,000 or more," says Rodriques. "That affects auto insurance, equipment coverage, and even umbrella policies. The ripple effects are everywhere."

For businesses in booming sectors like real estate development, trucking, wholesale trade, and logistics — especially in Seminole, Orange, Lake, and Volusia counties — this is an issue they can’t afford to ignore.

Why Small & Medium-Sized Businesses Get Hit Harder

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) will feel these premium increases more than the big guys. Here’s why:

Less power to negotiate

Big companies have risk managers and brokers who can negotiate.
Small businesses usually can’t — they take what the insurance company offers.

Smaller financial cushion

A large company can absorb a 20-30% premium increase or pass it along to customers.
For SMBs with tight margins, even a $5K–$10K increase can hurt.

Insurance eats up more of their revenue

Example:

• $1M business paying $50K in premiums → 5% of revenue

• $100M business paying $50K → just 0.05% of revenue

The smaller you are, the bigger the bite.

Inflation hits harder

Many SMBs haven’t updated their coverage in years. Now they’ll be forced to increase coverage at today’s inflated values — and pay more.

Example: a local warehouse previously valued at $2M now costs $3M to rebuild. That extra $1M is going to cost them.

Fewer resources to manage risk

Big companies have teams to help prevent losses.
Most SMBs don’t — which means higher risk and higher premiums.

"That’s why we’re encouraging every local business owner to be proactive," says Rodriques. "Update your valuations, review your coverage, and explore ways to manage your risks before your next renewal. Don’t wait until you get that surprise premium notice in the mail and work with your agent ahead of renewal time."

About Evolve Insurance Group

Evolve Insurance Group is a locally owned independent insurance agency based in Altamonte Springs, Florida, serving businesses across Seminole, Orange, Lake, and Volusia counties.

They specialize in:

• Commercial insurance

• Trucking insurance

• Business owner policies

• Risk management consulting for entrepreneurs and growing businesses.
  
  Home and Auto for business owners and their families

For media inquiries or to schedule a free policy review, contact:
Tanya Rodriques
Owner, Evolve Insurance Group
?? 321-214*8385
?? tanyar@evolveinsurancefl.com
?? www.evolveinsurancegroup.com