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 attend the mediation, and specifies that the insurer must bear the costs of mediation, with certain exceptions. Additionally, the bill revises the definition of a claim and outlines the responsibilities of policyholders, including the requirement to provide necessary documentation to the insurer within ten days of invoking mediation.

Furthermore, the bill empowers the Department of Financial Services to adopt rules for the mediation program and allows for emergency rules in response to natural disasters. It also includes provisions for the binding nature of settlements reached during mediation, with specific conditions under which a policyholder can rescind a settlement. The bill appropriates $1 million from the Insurance Regulatory Trust Fund for the administration of these changes and sets effective dates for the new provisions.

Statutes affected:
S 108 Filed: 627.7015, 627.7074