300,000 Broward Home Owners Frustrated During Insurance Claim Process

Damage to home or businesses due to storms, heavy winds, burst pipes, leaky roofs and vandalism are unfortunately common in Florida. Making matters worse, many property owners are finding that they’re not getting what they need out of the insurance claim process, which is becoming a growing concern across the state.

As we’ve seen from an increasing number of news articles, policyholders are finding that filing an insurance claim in Florida is much too difficult, with the process taking an unreasonable amount of time. Then, once they finally get through it and hear back from their insurance company, they often find that their claim is denied for unfair reasons. In other situations, they may receive only partial compensation to cover the damage.

In fact, more than 300,000 Floridians struggle to navigate this stressful insurance claim process — and it has gotten so bad that the state legislature is considering a bill to provide additional support to consumers.

Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights

The legislation, known as Senate Bill 708, has passed its final committee of the current legislative session. It’s known as the Homeowner Claim Bill of Rights, and it essentially requires insurance companies to provide a one-page outline of a claimant’s rights — in easily interpreted terms — to any policyholder who files a claim. It also offers instructions on the claims process and what can be expected.

Additionally, the bill sets a time limit on the underwriting process of 90 days, citing the fact that the insurance company has access to the information needed for this process well in advance and should therefore be able to complete it in a more reasonable period of time. If a policy has been in place for more than 90 days, the insurer loses the right to deny a claim or cancel a policy on the grounds of credit-related issues.

Why is this needed?

If you have attempted to take on the insurance claims process in Florida, you likely understand the reason for the state legislature getting involved and taking measures to rectify this ever-growing problem. As a policyholder, you shouldn’t have to feel as if you’re facing opposition from your insurance company when filing a claim, as you have enough to worry about related to the physical damage done to your home or building.

These legislative measures could be a major step forward for claimants’ rights in Florida. However, if you need help with filing a claim after damage occurs to your property, be sure to speak with a public adjuster. These professionals have years of experience in the insurance industry and can help you get a fair result.

Advocate Claims Public Adjusters serves home and business owners across Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Hollywood, Delray Beach, Boca Raton and the surrounding communities. To get started, call 954-369-0573.