Filing a water damage insurance claim in Florida can feel like navigating a maze. Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company — not you. Their job is to pay out claims, but also to keep costs as low as defensible. Here's how to protect yourself and maximize your settlement.
Understand Who Your Adjuster Works For
When you file a claim, your insurance company sends one of two types of adjusters:
- Staff adjuster: An employee of your insurance company. Their salary and bonuses are paid by the insurer — they have an inherent interest in keeping settlements lower.
- Independent adjuster: A contractor hired by the insurance company when they're overwhelmed (common after hurricanes). Still working on the insurer's behalf.
Neither type of adjuster represents your interests. That's why having a restoration company that understands the claims process on your side is so important.
Do NOT Clean Up Before the Adjuster Visits
The single biggest mistake homeowners make is cleaning up water damage before the insurance adjuster sees it. Your adjuster needs to see the full, original scope of damage to write an accurate estimate. Document everything with video and photos — then call us, and we'll be present when the adjuster arrives.
Get a Restoration Company to Review Their Estimate
Initial insurance estimates are almost always incomplete. Common items that get underestimated or omitted:
- Drying equipment charges (adjusters often use lower equipment counts)
- Secondary damage not immediately visible (behind walls, under floors)
- Contents that need cleaning or replacement
- Code upgrade costs (current building code may require upgrades during reconstruction)
- Temporary housing / additional living expenses
- Debris removal and haul-away
We write Xactimate estimates using the same software and price database as your adjuster. When we find discrepancies, we submit a supplemental estimate with documentation — and adjusters accept our supplements in the vast majority of cases.
Know Your Rights as a Florida Policyholder
- You have the right to a second opinion: You can hire a public adjuster or have your restoration contractor review and dispute the initial estimate
- You have the right to an appraisal: Most Florida policies include an appraisal clause that allows both sides to hire an appraiser if they disagree on the settlement amount
- You have the right to a copy of your full policy: Request it in writing if you don't have it — you can't negotiate what you don't understand
- You have time: Florida law gives you up to 2 years from the date of loss to file a civil action related to an insurance claim
What to Do When the Adjuster Arrives
- Be present — never allow an adjuster to inspect alone
- Walk them through every area of damage, including areas they might miss
- Have your documentation (photos, video, receipts) ready
- Ask for a copy of their written report
- Do not sign any "proof of loss" documents without reviewing them carefully
- Ask if a restoration specialist can be present (we do this regularly for our clients)
Have a claim in progress? Call at 321-420-7274. We've helped hundreds of Orlando homeowners get fair settlements and we'll advocate for you throughout the process.