FL H0177

Prohibits public adjusters from initiating contact with insureds or claimants until at least 48 hours after an insurable event occurs, unless the insured or claimant initiates contact first.

Licensed contractors and subcontractors performing emergency remediation or restoration services are prohibited from adjusting claims or interpreting insurance coverage unless licensed as public adjusters.

Requires contractors and subcontractors to provide insureds with detailed service estimates before execution of any agreement and a 5-day rescission period that begins when the insurer receives a copy of the fully executed agreement.

Creates new section 626.8699 prohibiting any person or entity from offering referral fees, commissions, bonuses, kickbacks, rebates, or split-fee arrangements for repair, mitigation, or restoration services exceeding $25 that are covered under an insurance policy.

Establishes penalties of up to $10,000 per violation and department recommendation for disciplinary action; violations a third or subsequent time constitute a third-degree felony.

Effective date: July 1, 2016.