In 2023, Florida’s insurance landscape transformed with reforms like Senate Bill 2A, designed to curb Assignment of Benefits (AOB) abuse, reduce litigation, and streamline claims. Now, in 2025, these changes continue to influence how Public Adjusters, Insurance Carriers, and Insurance Agents manage property restoration claims. Challenges such as tight claim deadlines, evolving case law, and hurricane-driven claims keep compliance and collaboration critical.
At All Claims Restoration, we’ve adapted our processes to deliver faster, compliant outcomes. Here’s what we’ve learned and how you can optimize claims in 2025.
The Lasting Impact of Florida’s 2023 Reforms
The 2023 reforms, particularly SB 2A, introduced stricter AOB rules, a one-year deadline for new claims, and a two-year limit for supplemental claims. A 2024 report from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation noted a 30% reduction in AOB-related lawsuits since 2023. However, litigation over claim denials and scope disputes persists, especially during Florida’s intense hurricane seasons. For Public Adjusters, meticulous documentation is essential. For Carriers, partnering with compliant restoration firms is key. For Agents, educating clients on deadlines is critical to avoiding denials.
Key challenges in 2025 – Despite progress, several pain points remain:
- Claim Deadlines: The one-year window for new claims and two-year limit for supplemental claims create urgency, particularly post-hurricane. A 2024 study estimated 15% of claims are denied due to missed deadlines.
- AOB Compliance: Improper AOB agreements can lead to claim rejections. Restoration firms must provide detailed disclosures to stay compliant.
- Litigation Risks: While AOB lawsuits have declined, disputes over “bad faith” claim handling are rising, with carriers facing increased scrutiny in 2025 court rulings.
Best Practices for Claims Success
- Prioritize Rapid Response: In Florida’s humid climate, time is critical. At All Claims Restoration, our team arrives within 24 hours to conduct thorough physical inspections using advanced tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging, preventing escalation (e.g., mold growth within 48 hours). Adjusters and Carriers benefit from our real-time updates, ensuring compliance with deadlines.
- Leverage Technology for Accuracy: We use tools like Xactimate and moisture sensors during on-site inspections to deliver precise estimates, reducing disputes. For example, a recent commercial claim in Miami was settled 20% faster due to our detailed, technology-assisted assessments.
- Collaborate Early: Regular communication between adjusters, carriers, and restoration firms prevents delays. We provide daily progress reports to keep all parties aligned.
- Educate Clients: Insurance Agents can reduce denials by advising clients to report damage immediately. We offer free resources to help Agents educate policyholders on reform requirements.
CASE STUDY
Hurricane Helene Tampa Florida 2024
Streamlining a Hurricane Claim
In September 2024, a Category 3 hurricane hit Tampa, damaging a multi-family property. The Public Adjuster faced a tight supplemental claim deadline under SB 2A.
All Claims Restoration sent a team for a physical inspection within 24 hours, using Xactimate and moisture meters to document damage.
Our detailed report enabled the adjuster to submit a compliant $150,000 claim, approved without dispute, saving weeks of negotiation. This case highlights the value of rapid, compliant restoration processes.
Looking Ahead: Staying Ahead in 2025
As Florida’s insurance market evolves, new court rulings and legislative tweaks will shape claims. Restoration companies like ours stay proactive by investing in training, technology, and compliance. Whether you’re an Adjuster navigating AOB rules, a Carrier managing litigation risks, or an Agent advising clients, partnering with a reform-savvy restoration firm is key.
Ready to streamline your claims in 2025? Contact us below for a free consultation. Let’s make claims faster, smoother, and cost-effective.
* Photo credit: Cold Jet
