Insurance Carriers

the insurance carries we write with

DISCLAIMER
The answers to coverage questions are primarily based on ISO forms generally used in Florida by most companies. However, we must keep in mind that all companies’ forms are NOT necessarily the same. Some companies may provide broader coverage and some may be more restrictive. IN ALL CASES, THE CONSUMER MUST REFER TO HIS OR HER OWN POLICY FOR SPECIFIC COVERAGE INFORMATION. In catastrophic situations, some companies may be more lenient in their handling of claims and may make concessions, such as advancing additional living expense (i.e. ALE) payments, to expedite the claim process. Other companies may handle such claims in accordance with their normal procedures. If you have additional questions that need to be added to this list or if you find any errors, please send them to the Division of Consumer Services, Bureau of Education, Advocacy and Research, 200 East Gaines Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-4212.

WHAT IF MY HOME IS DAMAGED AND I DON’T HAVE INSURANCE?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides assistance to those whose homes are damaged or destroyed. You should also keep all receipts for any repairs you make so you can file the loss with the IRS on your income tax return. You may also be eligible for a low interest loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA). FEMA can be reached at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) (TTY: 1-800-462-7585). SBA can be reached at 1-866-737-7232.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE A CLAIM?
If you have damage, you should take photos and the necessary steps to mitigate the damage and prevent any additional damage from occurring. This would include any temporary repairs such as covering the roof or removing standing water. You should also immediately contact your insurance company to inform them of the damage and file a claim. Do not allow a third party, such as a water remediation firm or contractor, to contact your insurance company for you. You should be the one to make the first contact with your insurance company. You do not need to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) in order to get your insurance claim processed or your residence repaired.
Read more about AOB here.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE A CLAIM?
If you have damage, you should take photos and the necessary steps to mitigate the damage and prevent any additional damage from occurring. This would include any temporary repairs such as covering the roof or removing standing water. You should also immediately contact your insurance company to inform them of the damage and file a claim. Do not allow a third party, such as a water remediation firm or contractor, to contact your insurance company for you. You should be the one to make the first contact with your insurance company. You do not need to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) in order to get your insurance claim processed or your residence repaired.
Read more about AOB here.

WHEN SHOULD I REPORT MY CLAIM TO MY INSURANCE COMPANY?
You should report your claim as soon as possible. If we have had multiple hurricanes in a year or if we have a severe hurricane, it may take longer for an adjuster to get to you. It is not uncommon for insurers to prioritize claims by the severity. In other words, if your home is destroyed, you would receive a higher priority than someone with a few roof tiles missing. You might consider this fact when determining how soon to call.

SHOULD I MAKE REPAIRS TO MY DAMAGED PROPERTY OR WAIT FOR THE INSURANCE ADJUSTER?
You are required by your insurance contract to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. The adjuster must see the damage to evaluate your loss. Take pictures of the damage and keep all receipts for materials purchased for emergency repairs. You should not dispose of any damaged property until the adjuster has completed his inspection.