The One-Two Punch of Hurricanes Helene and Milton Are policyholders on the ropes — or finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel?

The One-Two Punch of Hurricanes Helene and Milton Are policyholders on the ropes — or finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel?

As I’ve often said, surviving the storm is rarely the hardest part. The real fight begins in the aftermath — navigating the complex, red-tape-filled insurance claim process that too often leaves policyholders dazed in their most vulnerable moments of need. For those seeking practical insights and guidance after Hurricane Helene or Milton, I encourage you…

FEMA 50% Rule: Rising Above Challenges and Learning from the Past—What’s the Real Story?

FEMA 50% Rule: Rising Above Challenges and Learning from the Past—What’s the Real Story?

The 2024 Florida hurricane season year has been exceptionally busy and deeply impactful. Especially for those of us in the Tampa Bay region. For many, the effects are devastatingly real; for others, recovery has just begun. Tragically, some communities face complete replacement, leaving scars that may never heal. Writing this, I feel compelled to acknowledge…

Public Adjuster Rick Tutwiler Talks With CFO and Chief of Insurance Assistance Division of Consumer Services Following Hurricane Helene

Public Adjuster Rick Tutwiler Talks With CFO and Chief of Insurance Assistance Division of Consumer Services Following Hurricane Helene

It was a humbling experience meeting with Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis today at the ‘Insurance Village’ in Clearwater, established for Bay Area residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. As Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Patronis was on-site offering much-needed reassurance to homeowners who lost everything, providing guidance, and outlining steps for relief. During our conversation, we addressed…

More Hurricane Helene Flood Claim Strategies from a Public Adjuster’s View

More Hurricane Helene Flood Claim Strategies from a Public Adjuster’s View

Since Hurricane Helene impacted Florida’s Gulf Coast, our public adjusters have been besieged with questions about flood claims. Therefore, I thought it would be helpful and hopefully educational to explain the distinction between a flood event and a water loss since these terms are often misused by policyholders filing a claim. In addition, for those…

Hurricane Helene Recovery from a Public Adjuster’s Perspective

Hurricane Helene Recovery from a Public Adjuster’s Perspective

Hurricane Helene has dealt a devastating blow up and down Florida’s Gulf Coast. Businesses and homeowners need to stay patient and protect their claim. While you wait for the insurance company to send out an adjuster, insurance companies will be requesting the following documentation from owners or their representatives: Receipts or invoices for any recent…

Be Safe After Hurricane Helene: Insurance Claim Advice and Tips for Navigating Property Damage Losses

Be Safe After Hurricane Helene: Insurance Claim Advice and Tips for Navigating Property Damage Losses

As recovery efforts begin after Hurricane Helene, many Floridians are facing the challenge of navigating property damage claims. This is a critical moment, especially given the lessons learned from Hurricane Ian just two years ago. While the focus is understandably on the present, 60 Minutes will be airing a segment tonight titled After the Hurricane, reflecting on Ian’s…

Does your insurance policy cover losses from a power outage due to Hurricane Helene?

Does your insurance policy cover losses from a power outage due to Hurricane Helene?

Power outages will be an unavoidable reality for policyholders who are impacted by Hurricane Helene. While some outages last only a few minutes, others can stretch on for days, causing considerable inconvenience and financial loss. From spoiled food in the refrigerator to potential business losses, the aftermath can be burdensome. This brings up an essential question:…