ORLANDO, Fla. — With the start of a new legislative session, Florida lawmakers are taking on the complex issue of property insurance. Both Republicans and Democrats are pushing for reform, driven by the experiences of homeowners grappling with the aftermath of hurricanes, including extended delays, difficulties with claims, and significantly increased premiums.
Jennifer Reynolds and her family were fortunate to survive when a massive tree crashed into their home during Hurricane Milton in October 2024. However, nearly five months later, they are still unable to live in their home due to the ongoing insurance claim process.
Reynolds is now seeking assistance from a public insurance adjuster and an attorney, hoping for a more expedient resolution. She expressed frustration with her insurance provider, stating, “We pay them for a really great policy…and at the end of the day, if something devastating like this happens, you no longer feel like you’re a valued customer because you’re just roped along through their processes.”
Reynolds described the severe damage to her home, noting that the front door is now unusable. “The door’s warped, you can’t get in,” she explained. The family’s financial situation has been strained by the need to pay both rent for their temporary housing and the mortgage on their damaged property.
Two bills filed for the 2025 legislative session are aimed at addressing these issues. House Bill 1047 proposes reforms to the insurance process, including a prohibition on adversarial conduct by adjusters toward insurance companies, and mandates increased communication from insurers to homeowners regarding the status of their claims. Another piece of legislation, referred to as the “Fallen Tree Act,” would hold property owners responsible for damages caused by trees on their land that fall onto neighboring properties.
Reynolds’ home was damaged by a tree that fell from a neighbor’s property.
