The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) published a notice to P&C insurers reminding them they should be prepared for a hurricane or another catastrophe and the ensuing claims process. They should be ready and be able to handle claims efficiently while complying with the Florida Insurance Code.

Insurers should have claims-handling manuals that meet the requirements of the Florida Insurance Code and should be able to implement them during a catastrophe. Insurers should communicate with policyholders before a catastrophe event. All staff should know of any updates or revisions to the claims-handling manual. Insurers must be able to attest that it has adequate resources to handle claims at all times, including during a catastrophic event. OIR will be monitoring companies for compliance. 

Insurers must acknowledge receipt of a claim within 7 calendar days and must make a claim determination within 60 days. Failure to comply with any requirement can result in fines or other penalties, including suspension of a certificate of authority or monetary fines.