What Is The State Of Florida Doing About Homeowners Insurance?

? Did you ever wonder who helps you pay to fix your home after a big storm?

What Is The State Of Florida Doing About Homeowners Insurance?

You live in Florida. You know storms come. You know insurance can feel confusing. The state makes rules to try to keep insurance working. The state tries to stop fraud. The state tries to keep insurers from leaving. The state tries to protect you when disaster hits.

I say this like a person at a kitchen table. I also say this like an insurance person from Pensacola who opens a file and breathes. You will find clear steps here. You will find simple words. You will also find a friendly note about how a public adjuster can help you claim what you deserve.

Why You Should Care

You pay for insurance. You expect the company to pay when your house gets hurt. You also want the company to stay in business. You want prices that make sense. You want a fair claim when wind or water or fire damages your home. The state acts because those things affect many people. The state wants the insurance market to work.

Who Runs Insurance Rules in Florida?

You need to know who makes decisions. You will find a few key players.

• The Florida Legislature. The Legislature writes and passes laws. These laws set rules for insurers and for claims.
• The Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR). OIR reviews rates. OIR watches insurers. OIR can step in when a company acts wrong.
• The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS). DFS helps with consumer protection and fraud investigations.
• Citizens Property Insurance Corporation. Citizens acts as the state-backed insurer. Citizens covers homeowners when private insurers will not.

Each agency has a job. The agencies meet and talk. They act when the market shakes.

What Big Problems Does Florida Face?

You face big problems that make insurance harder and more costly. The state sees these problems every year.

• Severe storms. Hurricanes cause many claims at once.
• Rising repair costs. You pay more for labor and materials.
• Fraud and inflated claims. Some people and some contractors file or push bad claims.
• Insurer exits. Some insurers stop offering policies in Florida.
• Reinsurance costs. Insurers buy reinsurance to protect themselves. Reinsurance gets expensive after big storms.

The mix of these problems makes insurance prices rise. The state tries to manage the mix.

What Has the Florida Legislature Done?

You will see many laws from the Florida Legislature. The laws aim to reduce fraud and slow price jumps. The laws also try to help insurers stay solvent.

• The Legislature limited some abusive assignment of benefits (AOB) practices. The law makes AOB harder to use for contractors who chase payments. The law helps you keep control of your claim.
• The Legislature set limits on attorney fees. The law changed how some legal fees are paid in insurance disputes. The law aims to discourage lawsuits that drive costs up.
• The Legislature tightened contractor licensing rules. The law makes it harder for unlicensed contractors to file claims or take money.
• The Legislature encouraged roof inspections and stricter roof replacement rules. The law asks for more proof before approving major roof claims.
• The Legislature backed mitigation credits. The law supports discounts for wind-resistant doors, shutters, and strong roofs.

These laws do not fix everything. They change where money flows. They aim to reduce bad claims and lower overall costs.

What Has the Office of Insurance Regulation Done?

You will see action from OIR. OIR approves rates and checks insurers.

• OIR reviews rate requests. Insurers must file rate changes. OIR can approve, reject, or modify those rates.
• OIR licenses insurers. OIR will not let a company sell policies unless it meets rules.
• OIR monitors solvency. OIR watches reserves and capital. OIR can require changes if a company looks weak.
• OIR orders consumer notices. OIR can require insurers to tell you about coverage limits, deductibles, and nonrenewals.

You can look at OIR reports to see how many insurers hold policies. You can use that data to shop for coverage.

What Is Citizens Property Insurance Doing?

You will hear a lot about Citizens. Citizens acts like a safety net.

• Citizens writes policies for homeowners who cannot find private coverage.
• Citizens grew after many insurers left the market.
• The state works to shrink Citizens. The state wants more private companies to offer policies.
• Citizens charges membership assessments when it needs money after big losses. These assessments can hit policyholders and insurers.

You must watch Citizens. If your insurer leaves, you may end up with Citizens. If Citizens grows too large, the state may use assessments that cost you money.

What Is the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund (FHCF)?

The FHCF helps insurers pay large hurricane claims. The fund pays a portion of losses after a qualifying event.

• The FHCF provides reinsurance to insurers at a fixed cost.
• The fund lowers the direct cost insurers face after a hurricane.
• The fund sometimes requires assessments if funds run low.

Think of the FHCF as a big piggy bank. It stands ready to help insurers after storms.

What Are Reinsurance and Assessments?

You will hear these words a lot. They matter to prices and to who pays.

• Reinsurance is insurance for insurance companies. Insurers buy reinsurance to share risk.
• Reinsurance costs go up after big storms. Insurers pass those costs to you.
• Assessments are fees the state uses to cover shortfalls. The state can charge assessments on policies to pay for deficits in funds like FHCF or when insurers fail.
• Assessments can apply to many types of policies. They can hit property and other insurance lines.

You may see assessments added to your bill after major events. The state tries to limit surprise assessments. The state also works to spread costs over time.

How the State Tries to Keep Insurers in Florida

You will want private insurers to stay. The state uses tools to help.

• The state offers a stable regulatory environment. Regulators set clear rules to reduce uncertainty.
• The state helps reduce fraud with tough laws. Fewer fraud cases can mean lower costs.
• The state works with reinsurers. Better access to reinsurance can make Florida more attractive to insurers.
• The state promotes competition. The state tries to invite insurers to offer policies.

The state cannot make business decisions for companies. The state can only use rules and incentives.

How the State Acts Right After a Big Storm

You will see quick state steps after a storm. The goal is to help people and to keep insurers from punishing homeowners.

• The state may order a temporary moratorium on cancellations and nonrenewals. That step stops insurers from dropping policies while people recover.
• The state may allow emergency claims handling procedures. Regulators may speed up claim approvals and payments.
• The state may use disaster declarations to unlock federal help. This step lets FEMA and other agencies step in.
• The state may coordinate with local officials. The state helps with shelters, road clearing, and safety.

You should act fast after the storm. Document damage. Call your insurer. Call a public adjuster if you need help.

How the State Tries to Cut Fraud

You will hear about fraud laws. The state uses many ways to fight bad actors.

• The state increased penalties for people who lie on claims.
• The state made AOB harder to weaponize. The state aims to limit claims that inflate costs.
• The state encouraged better documentation and inspections. Inspectors and adjusters must prove damage.
• The state expanded investigations. DFS and local law enforcement pursue fraud rings.

When fraud falls, real homeowners pay less in premiums over time.

How Changes Affect Your Claim

You will want to know how these laws and rules change what happens when you file a claim.

• Insurers may ask for more proof of damage. You must keep receipts and photos.
• You may face stricter roof rules. Older roofs may not qualify for full replacement costs.
• You may see changes in how quickly attorneys get paid. This can affect how easily people sue.
• You may have fewer bad-actor contractors pushing AOB. You still must be careful with contractors.

The state tries to make claims fairer. You still need to document your loss.

What You Can Do As a Homeowner

You will have power. You can act to protect your home and your claim.

• Keep photos of your home. Take pictures of your roof, walls, and major items. Update photos every year.
• Keep receipts. Save invoices for roof work, windows, and upgrades.
• Make mitigation upgrades. Install shutters or stronger roofs to qualify for discounts.
• Maintain your roof. Replace shingles when needed to avoid denials.
• Shop for coverage. Compare policies from multiple companies.
• Read your policy. Know limits and deductibles.
• Hire a public adjuster if you have damage. A public adjuster works for you, not the insurer.

Each action reduces risk that the insurer will deny or underpay your claim.

How a Public Adjuster Helps You

You will see the term public adjuster a lot. Their role matters.

• A public adjuster represents your interests. The adjuster reads your policy. The adjuster documents damage. The adjuster negotiates with the insurance company.
• A public adjuster knows claims processes. The adjuster files forms and works deadlines.
• A public adjuster usually works for a fee that is a percentage of your recovery. The adjuster may not collect unless you get paid.
• A public adjuster can increase the amount you receive. Adjusters know how to value losses and hidden damage.

You may hire a public adjuster right after damage. The adjuster can protect you from low settlement offers.

How Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals Can Help You

You will want an experienced public adjuster at your side. Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals serves homeowners across Florida. Otero is based in Pensacola. Otero helps with hurricane damage, water damage, mold, roof leaks, and kitchen fires. Otero works for you and only gets paid when you do.

• Otero offers a free initial inspection. You pay nothing for the first visit.
• Otero negotiates with your insurance company. Otero acts as your advocate.
• Otero documents hidden damage and repairs. Otero prepares appraisals and cost estimates.
• Otero serves all of Florida. Otero will travel to your home if needed.

You can call Otero at (850) 285-0405. You can visit https://oteroadjusting.com/. Otero’s address is 3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526.

You should call Otero if you feel unsure. You should call Otero if you suspect lowball offers. You should call Otero if you want a seasoned public adjuster on your team.

What to Expect When You Hire a Public Adjuster

You will want to know the steps. A clear plan helps you feel calm.

• Step 1. Initial inspection. The adjuster visits your home. The adjuster documents damage at no cost.
• Step 2. Policy review. The adjuster reads your policy to see coverage.
• Step 3. Estimate. The adjuster compiles repair estimates and replacement costs.
• Step 4. Claim filing. The adjuster files the claim with the insurer and sends documentation.
• Step 5. Negotiation. The adjuster talks to the insurer to agree on a settlement.
• Step 6. Settlement. You accept an agreed amount. The adjuster gets paid from the recovery.

You will find this process easier if you keep clear records and respond quickly.

Common Questions You May Ask

You will likely have simple questions. Here are answers that help.

Q: Can a public adjuster get me more money?
A: Yes. A public adjuster often recovers more than an unrepresented homeowner. Adjusters know how to find hidden damage and make strong valuations.

Q: Does the state force insurers to pay?
A: No. The state sets rules. The state can penalize bad behavior. The state cannot guarantee every claim pays. That is why you may need a public adjuster.

Q: Will hiring a public adjuster make my premium go up?
A: No. Filing a claim or hiring an adjuster alone does not mean your premium will rise. Insurers base rates on many factors, not a single claim.

Q: What if my insurer denies my claim?
A: You can appeal the denial. You can file an appraisal or mediation. You can hire a public adjuster or an attorney. The state has complaint processes too.

Q: What is assignment of benefits (AOB)?
A: AOB lets you transfer claim rights to a contractor. The state limited how abusive AOBs work. You still must be cautious when signing any contract.

Table: State Actions and How They Affect You

State Action	What It Means for You	When It Applies
Laws limiting AOB abuse	You keep more control over your claim. Contractors cannot push unlimited suits.	When you sign for repairs or a contractor files a claim
Rate reviews by OIR	Insurers must explain rate increases. OIR can slow or modify increases.	When insurers request higher premiums
Enhanced fraud penalties	Fewer false claims can mean lower premiums over time.	Always; affects the entire market
FHCF support	Insurers can get help after hurricanes. This support may reduce insurer losses.	After qualifying hurricane events
Moratoria after disasters	Insurers cannot drop you immediately after a storm.	Immediately after declared disasters
Stronger contractor licensing	You get better protection from unlicensed contractors.	When contractors work on your home

This table shows how state moves connect to your life. You should use it when you decide on repairs or when you file a claim.

Tips to Make Your Claim Strong

You will do better with a clear plan. Follow simple steps.

• Take pictures immediately. Use your phone. Take wide shots and close shots.
• Write notes. Note the date and time of damage and events.
• Keep receipts. Save bills for temporary repairs and expenses.
• Avoid quick repair sign-offs. Do not sign away your rights.
• Get independent estimates. Do not rely only on the contractor’s numbers.
• Call a public adjuster when damage is large or complex.

You will thank yourself later when your claim settles.

How the Market Might Change Next

You will see changes as the state adjusts policies and as companies react.

• More private insurers might enter if reinsurance improves.
• Citizens may shrink if private market returns.
• Premiums may stabilize if fraud falls and insurers regain balance.
• New laws may appear to address new trends.

The future is not fixed. You can reduce risk by keeping your home strong and by using a public adjuster when you need help.

Short Story: Why I Recommend a Public Adjuster

You will like a short, clear story. I once helped a homeowner who found water in her kitchen. She called the insurer. The insurer sent an adjuster, and the adjuster wrote a small check. The homeowner felt the check was too small.

She called me. I inspected the home. I found hidden water in the wall and mold behind the cabinetry. She had photos from a year before showing no mold. We filed a fuller claim. The insurer increased the offer. She fixed the kitchen and the hidden mold. She did not pay for the adjuster until she got the money.

You will see this pattern often. Insurers do not always find hidden damage. A public adjuster helps you show the full loss.

My Advice as an Insurance Professional and Public Adjuster

You will hear advice that you can act on.

• Document everything. Proof matters more than memory.
• Read your policy. Know your limits, your deductibles, and what is covered.
• Do mitigation work. Simple upgrades can lower your premium and protect your home.
• Call a public adjuster promptly after major damage. Time matters for evidence and for claims handling.
• Use a reputable public adjuster. Look for licensing, references, and clear fees.

You should feel free to ask questions. A good adjuster will explain steps simply.

When You Should Call Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals

You will call Otero when damage is more than your deductible. You will call Otero when the insurer offers a low amount. You will call Otero when you see hidden damage or when contractor bids do not match the insurer’s offer.

Otero offers:

• Free initial inspection with no obligation.
• Experience with hurricane, wind, water, mold, and fire claims.
• Negotiation and appraisal services.
• Payment only when you recover funds.

You can reach Otero at:

• Address: 3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526
• Phone: (850) 285-0405
• Website: https://oteroadjusting.com/

Call Otero early. Call Otero before you sign repair contracts that give away your claim rights.

Example: Steps After a Hurricane

You will need a clear checklist. Follow these steps.

1. Ensure safety. Turn off gas or electricity if you smell fire or see wires.
2. Document damage. Take photos and videos of every room and the roof.
3. Make temporary repairs. Board up windows or cover roof holes to prevent more damage. Keep receipts.
4. Call your insurer. Tell them you have damage. Ask for the claims number.
5. Call a public adjuster. Get a free inspection and advice.
6. Get contractor estimates. Avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront.
7. File a claim with proof. Submit pictures, estimates, and lists of damaged items.
8. Negotiate settlement. Let your public adjuster handle communication and negotiations.
9. Complete repairs. Use licensed professionals and save receipts.
10. Submit final expenses and close the claim.

These steps help protect your claim and your home. Every day you wait may make evidence disappear.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

You will avoid these mistakes if you know them.

• Signing away rights too soon. Do not sign an AOB without reading it.
• Hiring an unlicensed contractor. Licenses protect you.
• Accepting the first low offer. Get an independent review first.
• Failing to document damage. No photos, no proof.
• Waiting too long to file. Some policies have time limits.

You will protect yourself by watching for these traps.

How the State Monitors Insurer Solvency

You will want to know that regulators watch solvency.

• OIR reviews financial statements from insurers.
• OIR checks reserves and capital to pay claims.
• OIR can put a weak insurer under supervision or into receivership.
• The state works to avoid disorderly failures that hurt homeowners.

If an insurer fails, you may still get help through guaranty associations and state plans. These plans have limits and may add delays, so keeping a strong insurer matters.

What Happens If Your Insurer Fails?

You will worry about this. The state has steps to protect policyholders.

• Your claims may move to another insurer or to the guaranty association.
• The state may assess other insurers to cover shortfalls.
• You may face delays in payment.
• A public adjuster can help you with the transition and with ensuring claims remain valid.

You should keep records of your claim and policy even if an insurer looks weak.

Final Thoughts

You live in a state with storms and high demand for insurance. The state works to keep the market stable. The state makes laws to stop fraud and to help insurers survive. The state helps after storms too. You still must be ready. You must document damage, buy good coverage, and act quickly after loss.

If you need help, call a public adjuster. Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals offers free initial inspections and works for you. Otero will help you document damage, value losses, and negotiate with insurers. You will not pay Otero unless you recover funds.

You can call Otero at (850) 285-0405. You can visit https://oteroadjusting.com/. Their office is at 3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526.

You should protect your home. You should protect your claim. You should get help when you need it.