This bill amends Florida Statutes to establish mandatory mediation for disputed property insurance claims, making it a prerequisite before any litigation can commence. The bill requires all parties involved in a property insurance claim dispute to participate in mediation, which can now be conducted via teleconference or other electronic means if mutually agreed upon. It also mandates that all insureds or their representatives must personally attend the mediation. The Department of Financial Services is required to adopt rules for the mediation process and is authorized to implement emergency rules as necessary. Additionally, the bill revises the definition of a claim and outlines the responsibilities of both insurers and policyholders regarding costs and documentation during the mediation process.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that if a settlement is reached during mediation, it is binding unless the policyholder rescinds it within three business days, provided they are not represented by an attorney or public adjuster. The bill also clarifies that participation in mediation does not waive an insurer's right to invoke mediation in response to a notice of claim. An appropriation of $1 million is allocated from the Insurance Regulatory Trust Fund to support the implementation of these changes, with the act set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and the appropriation beginning on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 224 Filed: 627.7015, 627.7074