Your Rights When Filing a Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Claim

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Your Rights When Filing a Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Claim

Many Florida homeowners are unsure what their rights are as homeowner’s insurance policyholders and feel insecure when dealing with their insurance companies after experiencing a loss.  This should not be the case.  As an insured homeowner, you have certain rights under the law.

At Malik Law, we believe knowledge is power.  Knowing your rights when filing a Florida homeowner’s insurance claim can make the claims process less confusing and intimidating.  In addition, getting help with your claim from an experienced insurance claim attorney can give you the power to take control of the situation and get the results you want.
 

The Florida Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights

Florida Statute 627.7142 lays out the Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights.  First, the Bill of Rights sets a definite timeline for communication from your insurance company once you have filed a claim:

  • Within 14 days after you file a claim, you have the right to receive an acknowledgment from your insurance company.
  • Within 30 days after you file a Proof of Loss form with your insurance company, you have the right to be notified of your claim’s status (fully covered, partially covered, denied, or being investigated).
  • Within 90 days, you have the right to receive full settlement, payment of the undisputed part, or denial of your claim.

The Florida Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights also calls for free mediation services for a disputed claim from the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer Services.  The Department of Financial Services can be a valuable source of help for homeowners experiencing issues with their insurance claims.
 

Advice When Filing a Homeowner Insurance Claim

The Florida statute listing homeowners’ rights when filing a claim also provides the following advice on dealing with claims:

  • Contact your insurance company before signing any contract for repairs.
  • Make emergency repairs that are needed to prevent further damage. If possible, take photographs of the damage before and after any repairs, keep the damaged property, and hang on to all receipts for repairs.
  • If the damage necessitates leaving your home, let your insurance company know and be sure to secure your property and turn off the gas, water, and electricity.
  • Be careful with the contractors you choose to make repairs. Carefully read all contracts, confirm that contractors are licensed to do business in Florida, and require them to provide proof of insurance before they begin any repair work.

 

Help with Your Homeowner’s Insurance Claim

If you have concerns about a homeowner’s insurance claim or problems with your insurance company, talking with an experienced insurance claim attorney can be very helpful.

At Malik Law, we understand the claims process, how insurance companies work, and Florida’s laws.  We’ll put our knowledge, skill, and resources to work to get you the results you want.

Imran Malik
Imran Malik
Imran Malik, rated AV® Preeminent, by Martindale-Hubbell, is the founding member of Malik Law P.A. An AV® Rating signifies that a lawyer has reached the heights of professional excellence. He has practiced law for a number of years, and is recognized for the highest levels of skill and integrity by fellow attorneys in his area of practice. Martindale-Hubbell is the oldest and most trusted lawyer information service in America.