This bill amends Florida Statutes to establish a mandatory procedure for resolving disputed property insurance claims, replacing the previous alternative procedure. It requires insurers to inform policyholders about this new mandatory process at the time of policy issuance and renewal, and mandates the Department of Financial Services to create a consumer information pamphlet. Policyholders will be able to file a petition with the Division of Administrative Hearings to resolve claims, with specific requirements outlined for both the petition and the insurer's response. The role of the administrative law judge in reviewing these petitions and making determinations regarding coverage and claims is also defined.

Additionally, the bill repeals several existing statutes related to appraisal clauses and alternative dispute resolution methods in property insurance contracts, specifically Sections 627.70153 and 627.70154. It introduces a new section, 627.70156, which establishes that if a claim is made under a homeowners insurance policy and the insured has a separate windstorm or flood insurance policy, the homeowners insurer will be considered the primary insurer responsible for paying the loss. The bill also modifies provisions regarding the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, allowing it to adopt policy forms for dispute resolution through the Division of Administrative Hearings, and clarifies that neutral evaluation for sinkhole claims does not invalidate the appraisal clause of the insurance policy. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1508 Filed: 627.7015, 627.351, 627.70131, 627.7074