Florida Attorney General Investigates Insurers Over Restrictions on Hiring Public Adjusters

What the investigation means for Florida homeowners and independent claim representation - Florida investigates insurers

By FCS Public Adjusters | October 26, 2026

After property damage, homeowners face decisions about repairs, documentation, and insurance coverage. Having professional help to understand and present a claim can make that process easier to navigate.

Now, restrictions on that assistance are receiving attention from Florida’s Attorney General.

What Is Being Investigated?

According to News4JAX’s October 20 report, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s office opened an investigation into whether insurance companies coordinated restrictions preventing homeowners from hiring licensed public adjusters.

As part of the inquiry, the office issued a subpoena to Velocity Risk Underwriters LLC, seeking information about trade group participation, communications with other insurers, and agreements concerning public adjusters.

Why These Policy Clauses Matter

The report describes provisions commonly called “anti-public adjuster” clauses. According to the Attorney General’s office, the provisions under investigation could allow an insurer to reject an entire claim because a homeowner hired a public adjuster.

The investigation raises an important question: whether insurers worked together to limit homeowners’ access to independent assistance during the claims process. An investigation does not establish wrongdoing or automatically invalidate a policy provision.

Why Independent Representation Matters

A property insurance claim involves more than identifying visible damage. It requires a clear account of what happened, supporting documentation, a repair estimate, and attention to the policy’s requirements.

At FCS Public Adjusters, our work centers on helping homeowners organize and present their claims. We inspect and document damage, prepare estimates, communicate with the insurance company, and negotiate on our clients’ behalf.

Our position is straightforward: homeowners should be able to seek qualified assistance when making decisions about a damaged property and an insurance claim.

Review Your Policy Before Making Decisions

This news is also a reminder to understand your coverage before a loss occurs. A declarations page provides a summary; the complete policy and endorsements contain additional terms that may affect a claim.

Questions worth asking include:

• What deductibles and coverage limits apply?

• Are there endorsements that restrict particular losses or services?

• What documentation and duties does the policy require after damage?

• Does the policy contain language addressing public adjuster involvement?

If an insurer says hiring a public adjuster could affect coverage, request its position in writing, including the specific policy provision. Questions about a clause’s legality or enforceability should be reviewed by a qualified Florida attorney.

Talk With FCS Public Adjusters

Whether you are evaluating property damage or trying to understand an insurance estimate, a careful review can help you make informed decisions.

Contact FCS Public Adjusters to discuss your property damage and request a policy and claim review.

Based on reporting by News4JAX, published October 20, 2026.