Insurers with high number of Ian claims and complaints get warning

Writer: Paul Dolan
Published: Updated:
Bonita Bill’s Hurricane Ian damage. (Credit: Shared with WINK News)

Many Southwest Florida homeowners have been battling their homeowners insurance companies for months now over Hurricane Ian claims. And now, the state is cracking down.

Florida Insurance Consumer Advocate Tasha Carter sent a letter to those companies with the highest number of Hurricane Ian claims or consumer complaints. She’s asking for them to be accountable and responsive to customers.

“It is my duty and charge to ensure Florida’s insurance consumers receive the benefits they’re entitled to under their insurance contract. They’re not asking for a handout or special privileges. Consumers want to repair their homes and recover as quickly as possible. I’m grateful for the additional authority and tools CFO Patronis has granted me to ensure consumers are treated fairly and to assist in bringing Hurricane Ian claims to resolution,” said Carter.

In the letter to insurance companies, Carter outlined concerns and feedback she’s received regarding the handling of Hurricane Ian claims. Her office said “there are more than 140,000 that remain open impacting Floridians in significant ways.”

Problems include, extreme delays after filing a claim more than 6 months ago, having multiple adjusters, having to submit claim documentation multiple times, unsatisfactory settlement offers, prolonged delays, and a lack of communication.

The Consumer Advocate has requested each company with open claims appointment a designated liaison to specifically address Hurricane Ian complaints and claim inquiries received from the Office of the Insurance Consumer Advocate.

Click here if you are still battling your company and want to file a claim.

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