Your Water Damage Claim Was Denied : Now What?
Receiving a denial letter from your insurance company is frustrating, but it’s not the end. Florida law provides multiple avenues to challenge a denial. Here are your options, in order of escalation.
1. Request Reconsideration with Additional Documentation
Many denials result from insufficient documentation, not actual policy exclusions. Request a detailed explanation of the denial reason and provide additional evidence: moisture reports, thermal imaging, plumber reports, or contractor assessments.
2. File a Complaint with the Florida DFS
The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) investigates insurance complaints. Filing a complaint creates a regulatory record and often prompts the carrier to re-examine your claim. File at MyFloridaCFO.com.
3. Hire a Public Adjuster
Public adjusters work for you (not the insurance company) to document, negotiate, and settle claims. They typically charge 10-20% of the settlement amount.
4. Invoke the Appraisal Clause
Most Florida policies include an appraisal clause for disputes over the amount of loss (not coverage itself). Each side hires an appraiser, and if they disagree, an umpire breaks the tie.
5. Consult a Property Insurance Attorney
For significant losses where coverage is disputed, a property insurance attorney can evaluate your policy and denial letter. Many offer free consultations.
WrightWay provides the detailed documentation : Xactimate estimates, moisture mapping, thermal imaging, and photo reports : that supports your claim from the start. If you’re facing a denial, our documentation may be the additional evidence your carrier needs to reconsider. Call (941) 379-8669.
WrightWay handles every restoration job from emergency response through licensed reconstruction.
One IICRC-certified team, one project manager, one phone call. Available 24/7 across Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties.
