Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis issued a consumer alert about potential fraudsters looking to scam victims from Hurricane Debby that hit the state last week.
“I issued a consumer alert warning Floridians of contracts designed to avoid Florida’s ban on Assignment of Benefits (AOBs),” Patronis said. “If you are currently recovering from Hurricane Debby, you should beware of unscrupulous characters who offer any kind of Direct Payment Contract.”
The CFO’S office said Direct Pay Contracts hold you responsible to the contractor for more than what your insurance will pay for your loss without you knowing from the start what you project will cost. “Don’t sign anything!” Patronis warned. He tells consumers to avoid any contract that doesn’t include the total cost of the project and steer clear of high-pressure sales tactics and vague contract terms.
State officials tell Floridians to report any suspicious of fraudulent activity taking place in your area regarding unlicensed public adjusters, roofers, or contractors, please report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com.
New Emergency Order
Now the CFO has issued an Emergency Order to protect insurance policyholders following the impacts of Hurricane Debby.
This emergency order will allow consumers more time to get out of bad contracts, will require claims representatives to be more responsive to policyholders, and requires claims reps to identify themselves and who they work for. This order will keep consumers in the driver’s seat when handling your claim and stop the door-to-door scam artist from using your claim as their meal ticket.
“Following any disaster, fly by night contractors and so-called claims representatives will swoop into a storm-impacted area and try to come in between you and your insurance policy,” said Patronis.
