Florida Insurance Company Fined for Mishandling Hurricane Ian Claims
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida’s insurance regulatory body has imposed a $100,000 fine on Centauri Specialty Insurance Company for its improper handling of claims in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in 2022. According to a consent order document released by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, the company failed to use properly appointed adjusters and did not provide required disclosure statements when making partial claim payments.
The regulatory office identified 168 instances where Centauri used insurance adjusters who lacked proper licensure and appointment, as mandated by Florida law. Furthermore, the company was found to have omitted the necessary disclosure statement in 141 cases when making payments that were not the full and final settlement.
In addition to the $100,000 fine, Centauri was also ordered to pay $2,000 in administrative costs. As part of the consent order agreement, the company acknowledged that future violations could result in administrative penalties.
The fine highlights the regulatory scrutiny faced by insurance companies operating in Florida, particularly in the wake of significant weather events like Hurricane Ian.
