Florida property claim representation
Understand your options when a claim is disputed.
An incomplete estimate, disputed repair scope or denial may call for different next steps. We help organize the claim evidence so you can evaluate the dispute with the appropriate professionals.
Reviewed November 3, 2026. Coverage and available remedies depend on your policy, loss facts and applicable law.
Appraisal and mediation serve different purposes
Appraisal is a process provided by some insurance policies for determining the amount of loss. The wording can address who may demand it, required duties, appraiser qualifications, an umpire, costs and the effect of an award. Coverage and causation issues can raise legal questions about what belongs in appraisal. Do not assume every denied or underpaid claim is eligible.
Mediation is a settlement discussion assisted by a neutral mediator. Florida DFS administers programs for eligible personal residential and commercial residential disputes. General commercial property coverage is not automatically included in those programs. Eligibility, attendance and preparation requirements should be confirmed with DFS.
Review the policy before demanding appraisal
Collect the complete policy, endorsements, insurer’s position, estimates, reports and correspondence. Identify the exact disagreement and any outstanding policy duties. Ask how the policy allocates appraiser and umpire costs, whether the proposed appraiser meets its qualifications, and what issues the award would resolve. Legal questions about enforcing appraisal or preserving rights belong with a Florida insurance attorney.
In Parrish v. State Farm Florida Insurance Co., No. SC21-172 (Fla. February 9, 2023), the Florida Supreme Court held that the policy’s disinterested-appraiser requirement was not met by an appraiser whose own public-adjusting interest, or interest through the firm, depended on a contingency fee. Do not assume that the adjuster already representing you can serve as the appraiser required by your policy. Have the actual arrangement and clause reviewed.
Understand what a mediation settlement does
Under §627.7015, mediation itself is nonbinding. A written settlement can become binding and release the specific claims presented. The statute provides a three-business-day rescission period, but cashing or depositing a payment for the disputed matters can eliminate that right. Obtain advice before signing or depositing a settlement payment when its effect is unclear.
The statute generally places the mediation-conference cost on the insurer, subject to exceptions such as a policyholder’s failure to attend. That does not mean every expense for an attorney, public adjuster or other professional is paid by the insurer. Review your separate agreements. See DFS’s current program information for eligibility, required participants and request procedures.
Check separately for an arbitration endorsement
Arbitration is not the same process as appraisal or DFS mediation. A policyholder should review the actual endorsement and signed election with legal counsel before deciding how to respond. Our Florida property-insurance arbitration guide explains the statutory conditions and documents to gather.
Prepare the evidence, not just a requested total
- Identify each disputed area, item or construction operation.
- Provide measured quantities, material descriptions and itemized costs.
- Connect photographs, professional reports and invoices to those items.
- Explain the differences between the insurer’s estimate and the proposed scope.
- For association claims, identify common property, unit property and relevant governing documents.
Luxury properties may need specifications for specialty roofing, custom cabinetry, stone, glazing or other finishes. An expert report should explain its conclusions and limitations. A higher estimate without supporting detail may not resolve the disagreement.
How we can help
Experienced Public Adjusters assists with damage documentation, estimating, claim presentation and communication with the insurer. We can help organize the facts for a supplement, reinspection or appropriate dispute process. We do not provide legal advice or guarantee a settlement. An attorney should address disputed legal rights, releases, litigation deadlines and questions about compelling appraisal.
Related guidance: Attorney fees after Florida’s reforms · Before depositing a claim check · Insurance-law changes since 2022.
Concerned about a claim payment?
Experienced Public Adjusters helps Florida property owners document damage and present supported claims, with a focus on luxury homes, complex residential losses, condominium and HOA master policies, and commercial property.
Call (888) 881-8416 Request a claim review
Serving Naples, Tampa, Orlando, Daytona Beach and surrounding communities. Find our offices and service areas.
David Dwyer, designated primary adjuster: Florida license W391016. Experienced Public Adjusters: firm license W807213. Representation is subject to a written agreement; no settlement outcome is guaranteed.