Florida’s property insurance world has changed dramatically. For public adjusters, attorneys, and expert consultants, the shift isn’t just legal—it’s cultural. And the numbers tell the story.
Then: Litigation Was the Playbook
Just a few years ago, Florida made up nearly 79% of all property insurance lawsuits in the U.S., despite accounting for only 9% of claims. Public adjusters often built the file; attorneys took it to court.
Why? One-way attorney fee laws and fee multipliers made litigation financially rewarding and low-risk.
Now: Litigation Down, Denials Up
A wave of reforms—AOB restrictions, fee caps, and mandatory pre-suit processes—has flipped the script:
- Litigation is down: Florida’s share of lawsuits dropped from 79% to 70%, and defense spend as a % of premium fell from 8.4% to 3.1%.
- Complaints are up: DFS complaints doubled from 10,200 in 2020 to 23,400 in 2024, and are projected to exceed 31,000 in 2025.
- Denials are rising: Some major insurers are denying nearly 50% of all homeowner claims, including Citizens at 50.4% in 2023. Trends are clearly escalating.
The result? More policyholders stuck in limbo. Fewer formal lawsuits. More pressure on front-end resolution.
What It Means for Public Adjusters and Attorneys
Public Adjusters
- Need to guide homeowners through DFS complaints and mediation, not just file claims.
- Must produce stronger documentation to defend against early denial.
- Spend more time per file—same cap, more work.
Attorneys
- Less courtroom work, more pre-suit strategy and coverage challenges.
- Smaller fees per case.
- Higher value placed on neutral experts who can bolster credibility early.
Where We Fit In
At All Claims Consulting, our licensed general contractors bring 40+ years of construction and restoration experience to every appraisal, expert report, or legal assignment.
- Over 15,000 appraisals completed
- 10,000+ legal support assignments
- Neutral, unbiased umpire services when you need resolution—not gridlock
We’re not here to escalate. We’re here to clarify, support, and resolve.
The Bottom Line
The litigation-heavy era is over, for now. Particularly given this year’s session in Tallahassee ended with little fanfare despite considerable posturing in advance. Until that changes, today’s environment rewards collaboration, clear documentation, and credible experts. For attorneys and public adjusters alike, having the right partner can make all the difference.
Let’s help your next case move forward—with clarity.
Tony Allogia
President, All Claims Consulting