We recently handled a property claim involving a serious electrical fire in the home of a Clearwater Largo, FL family that caused significant fire, water, and smoke damage to the building and personal property. After being hired, the homeowner told us of a situation that is sadly becoming a recurring theme when fires occur. What…
But first some background. Steve Scott is a Gainesville, Florida attorney I have known for a number of years, which goes back to our first meeting when he called me to help him with a fire loss in his home. Following the successful adjustment and settlement of his claim, Steve and I became friends and that…
Year after year, statistics indicate that fires peak between Thanksgiving and Christmas. As the chart below shows tree fires are a big contributor. As public adjusters, we see firsthand how a house fire and the ensuing insurance claim can ruin a holiday well past the New Year! We urge everyone to pay extra attention in…
The end of November brings two significant events. The first is a full court press for the start of the holiday season, and the second is the end of the official Atlantic hurricane season. Regarding the former, let’s hope it is a good one. Things are looking good as the U. S. stock market continues…
A rising problem that we in the public adjusting profession have been dealing with for years seems to finally have caught the attention of Florida officials. That is, the practice of insurance adjusting without a license by roofers and restoration contractors who sometimes are also unlicensed. A recent article, Illegal for roofers to act as insurance…
I’m sad to report that an insurance industry veteran Tom O’Connor passed away. Tom was President of the OConnor Company an independent claims adjusting firm. Tom was an experienced and highly respected I/A. Tom and I were friends and I always enjoyed working with him. A great guy, always fair, very knowledgeable and we had…
Let me explain with an example of a claim that came across my desk that should be instructive laying out the steps policyholders should take when the dreaded denial letter comes in the mail from your insurance company. First, don’t panic. You may be able to turn things around provided you have requested all the…
I want to thank Florida Public Adjuster Michael Platts for penning this excellent commentary. By Michael W. Platts We are rapidly approaching the end of the hurricane season. It has been an unprecedented nine years since a hurricane has struck the State of Florida. Nonetheless, many citizens are not seeing much if any reduction in their property…
I want to thank Florida Public Adjuster Michael Platts for penning this excellent commentary. By Michael W. Platts So, the hotly contested election in Florida is over. What’s next? How will the results impact the policyholders in our State? This is a key issue for a number of reasons; including the importance of affordable insurance costs, the…
The end of an election cycle always presents a new opportunity for positive change. I pray that all the elected candidates remember who they are working for and try to work together to help both the property insurance policyholders and great State of Florida. The words of a great President come to mind: Let us not…