Church is out, and we’ve howdied and shook our way through Dallas—officially wrapping up the 2025 Annual Windstorm Insurance Conference in true Texas fashion! They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and this year’s conference proved it. With 740 attendees, 60 exhibitors, non-profits, and key stakeholders gathering in the Lone Star State, WIND 2025 once again solidified its status as a must-attend event for professionals dedicated to advancing the windstorm and property insurance claims industry. From insightful discussions to thought-provoking workshops, the conference fostered a balanced exchange of perspectives—uniting all members with a common goal: driving meaningful improvements that benefit both industry professionals and the consumers we serve. 
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In Florida, this lack of awareness is especially apparent in the ongoing debate over FEMA’s 50% Rule — a crucial regulation for post-disaster rebuilding that has recently taken center stage in the media. Despite its long-standing significance in guiding recovery after major flood disasters, public awareness remains surprisingly low. What’s even more troubling is the persistent spread of misinformation, often repeated by community leaders, so-called experts, and local building officials. These inaccuracies, amplified by media coverage, lead to widespread misunderstanding, with many mistakenly assuming the rule applies uniformly across all communities. This confusion creates significant challenges for agencies and experts striving to provide clear guidance during critical times.
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Harsher policy terms mean damages might not be covered Honored to have been asked to contribute to this article.

Jean Eaglesham is a topnotch reporter and very knowledgeable at all levels of the insurance industry. I suggest you follow her on the WSJ.

https://www.wsj.com/finance/homeowners-hit-by-helene-are-in-for-an-insurance-claim-shock-60ae5519?st=fpHroy&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink

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As a follow-up to our insurance claim tips blog post yesterday, some of the calls and reports we are receiving in the aftermath of Hurricane Debby are quite alarming. Residents of the Lakewood Ranch community are reporting extensive flood damage to homes and cars, along with critical care needs due to heart attacks, electrocutions, and other emergencies that have tragically resulted in loss of life. Property owners are stuck in their homes, waiting for the waters to recede, and many are concerned about their coverage since these inland communities, which haven't experienced flooding in over 30 years, are not near the coast. While automobiles will likely be covered, expensive damages to homes may result in numerous liability claims against developers and possibly municipalities. This is an ongoing critical situation, and we are working to assist those calling in need of help.

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Last year, we saw one of the most destructive storms in the history of the state with Hurricane Ian. This year, we are witnessing just how severe the lack of oversight is, in regard to regulating property insurance carriers’ financial integrity as well as making them accountable for their claims handling schemes. If the regulators pursued carrier misbehavior with as much vigor as they do policing attorneys, public adjusters and contractors, we might see a better environment for Florida policyholders
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As numerous clients are in various stages of repairs their Hurricane Ian damaged properties, we would like to share one success story that underscores the invaluable role experienced public adjusters can play contributing to the stability of Florida's challenging insurance market. First, let’s look at an example of what has brought policyholders, claim professionals, state officials, and insurance executives to this point of frustration.

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Insurers slashed Hurricane Ian payouts far below damage estimates, documents and insiders reveal - The Washington Post

We all acknowledge there are good and bad actors in every industry. Unfortunately, we see these deplorable activities firsthand when policyholders call us frustrated after trying to settle their claim. I hope the Florida Legislature acts alongside the Department of Insurance and regulators to put oversight in place that will place severe consequences on individuals or companies preventing policyholders from getting a fair claims settlement. This is the type of oversight needed that can only help to stem the litigation crisis. Fortunately, most of those I interact with in the insurance claims industry are trying to do right by the policyholder. Let’s give the policyholders the freedom to pick and choose what resources they require to get a fair settlement.

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With yet another Special Session beginning this week and a new legislative session beginning in March, Florida Legislators will soon be faced with some unexpected consequences, from new changes to the state’s insurance laws, that were passed by the Florida Legislature in May and December along with other pro-insurance reforms. There’s also, more work that needs to be done.

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Insurance Reform Special Session Updates
Public adjuster talks property insurance special session (baynews9.com)
Lawmakers to tackle Florida's property insurance crisis (baynews9.com)

As legislators attempt to reform and bailout the Florida property insurance market, ask yourself this:
Is the policyholder, property owner being put first?

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Let’s hope the FL legislators take a hard look at the sloppy claims practices and delay tactics that are hindering Hurricane Ian recovery during the special session on insurance reform next week. Insurance carriers and their claims departments should be put under the same scrutiny as Public Adjusters and Attorneys. Maybe if the carriers start getting fined they will treat their policyholders more fairly rather than trying to save a buck. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case based on our experience. https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/state/hurricane-ian-victims-struggling-with-insurance-claim-payouts-seek-help-from-public-adjusters

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