FL S1140

Allows insurers offering residential coverage to contract with building contractors skilled in hurricane damage mitigation and offer policyholders the option to use these contractors for repairs.

Requires insurers that restrict policyholders' contractor choice to: use only contractors with active status certificates under chapter 489; prohibit contractors from placing liens on the property; ensure all necessary permits are obtained; and guarantee work quality for 3 years after completion or certificate of occupancy issuance.

Imposes $10,000 per occurrence fines on insurers violating contractor restriction requirements, with additional fines and penalties if violations involve use of unregistered contractors or failure to obtain permits.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.