In recent years, a growing number of independent adjusters in Florida have come forward with allegations that insurance companies are doctoring damage estimates to minimize pay-outs to policyholders. These adjusters, who insurers hire to assess the damage caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, claim that insurance companies are manipulating estimates by underreporting the extent of damage, using inferior building materials, and pressuring adjusters to falsify reports.
The accusations have led to several high-profile lawsuits, with adjusters alleging that insurance companies have engaged in a pattern of fraudulent behaviour to boost their profits at the expense of policyholders. In some cases, adjusters have claimed they were fired or demoted for refusing to go along with the alleged fraud.
The problem is particularly acute in Florida, one of the country's most disaster-prone states. Hurricanes and other natural disasters are frequent occurrences in the state, and many policyholders have been left with significant damage to their homes and businesses. However, the adjusters contend that insurance companies are using these disasters as an opportunity to cut corners and underpay policyholders.
The allegations have led to calls for greater Florida insurance industry oversight. Some have called for the state to establish an independent body to investigate claims of fraud and misconduct by insurers. Others have called for stricter regulations and penalties for companies that engage in fraudulent behaviour.
Despite the growing controversy, insurance companies continue to deny any wrongdoing. They argue that they are committed to providing fair and accurate assessments of damage and that the allegations of fraud are without merit.
However, the increasing number of cases and adjusters coming out with charges imply that there may be a big problem with how insurance companies handle damage estimates in Florida. Policyholders in the state have a right to expect their insurance carrier to offer a fair and honest evaluation of the harm they have experienced. The industry must be held accountable for any fraud or wrongdoing.
Lastly, independent adjusters in Florida have accused insurance firms of doctoring damage assessments to reduce consumer compensation. The issue is severe in Florida, one of the most disaster-prone states in the country. The claims have prompted calls for increased monitoring of the insurance business in Florida, as well as stronger laws and punishments for corporations that commit fraud. Policyholders in the state have a right to expect their insurance carrier to offer a fair and honest evaluation of the harm they have experienced. The industry must be held accountable for any fraud or wrongdoing.
What can Santos Public Adjusters do for you when your insurance has underpaid your claim?
When an insurance company has underpaid your claim you can call Santos Public Adjusters to review your claim and negotiate the amount of your coverage benefits.
There are three things our experienced public adjusters will do:
Meet with you in person to discuss what happened and assess the damages
Review your policy and contract with the insurance company
Review all supporting documentation such as photos, estimates, and invoices
Once all of the information is collected, our team will begin negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf. Depending on what happened during the process, we may be able to get them to increase their offer or even add additional coverage benefits if appropriate.