Preparing for Hurricane Season: More Than Just Physical Preparations
As hurricane season quickly approaches, many Florida residents will begin securing their properties to prevent damage from high winds. However, as a licensed public adjuster and Florida homeowner, I urge property owners to also take time to understand their insurance coverage before disaster strikes. The days leading up to June 1 are crucial for assessing not just your home’s physical vulnerabilities, but also your insurance policy’s limitations.
Three Major Trends to Watch This Hurricane Season
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Insurance Companies Outsourcing Claims Many insurance companies are outsourcing their claims to independent adjusters who often lack familiarity with Florida’s specific building codes and construction standards. These adjusters, frequently from out of state, are under pressure to process claims quickly rather than thoroughly, which can lead to underwhelming and sometimes improper payments.
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Repeated Reassignment of Claims Homeowners are often frustrated by claims being reassigned multiple times to new examiners. Each reassignment causes delays as new examiners review files, interpret situations, and determine next steps. This lack of consistency and accountability leaves homeowners chasing insurance companies for clear answers, leading to interminable delays, especially after major hurricanes.
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Changes in Insurance Policies Themselves Perhaps most concerning is how insurance policies have evolved. With skyrocketing premiums, many policyholders have reduced their coverage and increased deductibles to offset costs. Common exclusions now include roofs, screen enclosures, fences, and water losses. What’s alarming is that these changes often come with little to no reduction in premiums, leaving policyholders with less coverage while paying more.
Taking Control of Your Insurance Coverage
As a policyholder, it’s crucial to review your policy now, before a disaster occurs. Pay particular attention to post-loss obligations – the requirements you must meet to receive a fair settlement. If this feels overwhelming, consider reaching out to a licensed public adjuster who understands the system and can advocate for you when you need it most.
In today’s insurance landscape, having a policy is just the beginning. You need someone who can navigate the complex claims process and fight for your rights as a policyholder. With over 20 years of experience in insurance adjusting, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges homeowners face. Don’t wait until after the storm to understand your coverage – take control now and be prepared.
