Understanding the insurance claim process is the first step to getting a fair settlement. Here's exactly what to expect — and how Claim The Max maximizes your outcome at every stage.
From the moment damage occurs through final settlement — here's every stage of the process and what you need to know at each one.
The moment damage occurs, your claim begins. Before touching, cleaning, or moving anything, photograph and video every inch of the damage. The quality and completeness of your initial documentation can make or break your settlement. Capture wide shots for context and close-ups for detail. Do not throw away any damaged items until your adjuster has inspected them.
Make only emergency temporary repairs to prevent further damage — tarping, boarding up — and save every receipt. These are reimbursable under most policies.
⏱️ Timeline: Day 1Report your claim to your insurance company promptly. Under Florida law, your insurer must acknowledge your claim within 14 days. Get your claim number in writing and document the name of every person you speak with, along with the date and what was discussed. Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company without consulting a public adjuster first — recorded statements are often used to limit claim payouts.
⏱️ Timeline: Day 1–3This is the most important step most homeowners skip. The insurance company will send their own adjuster — whose job is to minimize your payout. By hiring Claim The Max before that inspection, we can be present to ensure all damage is properly documented, point out areas the insurer's adjuster may overlook, and establish a strong claim record from day one. Getting us involved early consistently leads to higher settlements.
Our fee is a contingency — we only get paid when you get a higher settlement. No upfront cost.
⏱️ Timeline: As Early as PossibleOur licensed public adjusters conduct a thorough, independent inspection of your property — documenting every item of damage with professional photography, written reports, and damage estimates prepared using current Florida market rates. We inspect areas the insurer's adjuster frequently misses: attic spaces, HVAC systems, hidden moisture, structural elements, and more. Our estimates are built to withstand insurer scrutiny.
⏱️ Timeline: 1–7 Days After EngagementWe handle all communication and negotiation with your insurance company directly. This includes submitting your documented claim, responding to the insurer's requests, challenging any attempt to reduce your scope of damage, and pushing back against low estimates. You do not have to deal with the insurance company — we handle it all. Under Florida law, your insurer must make a coverage decision within 90 days of receiving your proof of loss.
⏱️ Timeline: Ongoing — Typically 30–90 DaysInsurance companies almost never offer their best number first. We negotiate aggressively using our damage documentation, policy analysis, and knowledge of Florida insurance law to push for the maximum settlement. If the insurer's offer is still inadequate, we can invoke the appraisal process under your policy — a formal dispute resolution mechanism that often results in a higher payout without litigation.
⏱️ Timeline: 1–8 Weeks of NegotiationOnce we reach an agreement that properly compensates you under your policy, you receive your settlement payment. We review every settlement offer with you before acceptance to make sure it is fair and complete. If additional damage is discovered during restoration, we can file a supplemental claim. Our goal is not just to close your claim — it's to make sure you receive every dollar you're entitled to.
✓ The average policyholder with a public adjuster receives 747% more than without one (OPPAGA Analysis).
⏱️ Timeline: Final ResolutionEvery claim is different, but here are the Florida law requirements and typical real-world timelines.
Important: Large-scale disasters like hurricanes can extend timelines significantly as insurers deal with high claim volumes. Having a public adjuster ensures your claim stays active and doesn't fall through the cracks. We monitor deadlines and keep the insurer accountable throughout the process.
Florida law provides strong consumer protections for property insurance policyholders. Know them — and use them.
Your insurer must acknowledge your claim within 14 days and begin a prompt investigation. Unreasonable delays are a violation of Florida insurance law and may constitute bad faith.
If your claim is denied, your insurer must provide a written explanation citing the specific policy provision relied upon. Vague or unsupported denials can be challenged.
If you disagree with the insurer's valuation, you have the right to invoke the appraisal process under your policy — a formal dispute mechanism that often results in a higher payout without litigation.
Florida law explicitly protects your right to hire a licensed public adjuster to represent your interests. Your insurer cannot prevent you from having professional representation.
The Florida Department of Financial Services offers a mediation program for disputed residential property claims. This free program provides a neutral mediator to help reach a fair resolution.
If your insurer acts in bad faith — unreasonably denying, delaying, or underpaying your claim — Florida law provides remedies including potential additional damages. Our team can help you understand your options.
A complete, step-by-step checklist prepared by licensed Florida public adjusters. Use it from the moment damage occurs through final settlement.
6 phases of the claim process · Documentation guide · Your rights as a policyholder · Insurer communication tips · What NOT to do · Prepared by a Licensed Florida Public Adjuster
📥 Download Free PDF ChecklistFree download · No email required · Instant PDF
Florida law requires insurers to acknowledge a claim within 14 days and make a coverage decision within 90 days. However, complex claims and post-disaster environments can extend this. With a public adjuster managing your claim, we keep the insurer accountable to these deadlines and push for the fastest possible resolution.
Florida policyholders have the right to a prompt investigation, a written explanation of any denial citing specific policy language, the ability to invoke the appraisal process, the right to hire a licensed public adjuster, access to mediation through the Florida DFS, and bad faith remedies if the insurer acts unreasonably.
Ideally, before the insurance company's adjuster inspects your property. The earlier we get involved, the stronger your documentation will be from the start. However, we can also help after a low offer, a denial, or even after a claim has been settled if additional damage is discovered.
In many cases, yes — especially if additional damage was discovered or the settlement did not cover the full cost of repairs. Florida law sets specific time limits for supplemental claims, so contact us as soon as possible to review your situation.
No. The insurer's estimate is their opening position — not the final word. You have the right to dispute their valuation through the appraisal process, and Claim The Max regularly negotiates settlements significantly higher than the insurer's initial offer.
Free property inspection. No upfront fees. A licensed Florida public adjuster fighting for you every step of the way.
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