It is clear that we are in the midst of an active hurricane season with Gustav and Hanna approaching the continental U.S. and much of Florida still absorbing Fay’s deluge. Yesterday, the St. Petersburg Times reported that insurance claims from Tropical Storm Fay were approaching 17,000. Our thoughts are with all those who may be in the path of Gustav, as this storm seems to be particularly well-organized. Residents along the gulf coast should take advantage of the long weekend to take precautions.
For those public adjusters in Florida, please be aware that the Governor’s declaration of a State of Emergency triggers FAC Rule 69B-220.201(5) which caps the fee a Public Adjuster can charge to 10% of the claim amount paid and also prohibits a Public Adjuster from collecting any fees, retainers, deposits or anything of value prior to the insured or claimant receiving a claim payment. This applies to any Tropical Storm Fay insurance claims that you may handle.
Regards,
Lee D. Gunn IV
Gunn Law Group, P.A.
Tampa, Florida