Don't Be A Victim! Prevent Contractor Fraud Abuse
Florida’s Insurance Consumer Advocate (ICA) Tasha Carter and the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) are working together to empower Floridians with the knowledge and resources to help prevent them from falling victim to contractor fraud and abuse, especially after a disaster.
While contractors play an
integral role in the building and repair process and most are legitimate, there
are others who are looking to take advantage of homeowners in vulnerable
situations after a disaster. Homeowners need to watch for red flags, such as
someone going door-to-door using high pressure sales tactics and demanding payment
up front.
$308.6 billion is lost annually to insurance fraud
According to the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud, approximately $308.6 billion is lost annually to insurance fraud. Insurance fraud tactics and schemes result in insurance companies paying higher negotiated settlements or paying additional costs to litigate these claims, which further burdens
consumers in the form of increased
insurance rates, lack of availability, and reduced coverage.
Don't Be A Victim! Prevent Contractor Fraud and Abuse Guide
“The best way to fight fraud is to be informed and prepared, so I encourage all Florida homeowners to utilize this guide before and after a storm to help prevent them from falling victim to contractor fraud.”
– Logan McFaddin with the American Property Casualty Insurance Association
The consumer tips and red flag warning signs outlined in this guide can help reduce your chance of being victimized by a contractor looking to commit insurance fraud or scam you out of your money.
"I encourage homeowners to print the guide and keep it in a secure location with their insurance and other important documents so they have it for easy reference after a storm. Prepare as much as possible beforehand to make the disaster recovery process smoother."
- Florida's Insurance Consumer Advocate Tasha Carter
Since the launch in March 2021, ICA Tasha Carter's Demolish Contractor Fraud: Steps to Avoid Falling Victim program has educated thousands of Florida consumers on how to spot contractor fraud and protect themselves from falling victim.
The program includes:
- An overview of contractor fraud and its impact
- A consumer education resource collection
- Consumer experiences section detailing stories of contractor fraud committed against Florida consumers
- Additional resources to assist with insurance fraud
The more knowledgeable you are as an insurance consumer, the less likely you are to fall victim to insurance fraud. As an educated and informed consumer, you can serve as your best advocate.
Contact Your ICA
Florida's Insurance Consumer Advocate
Office of the Insurance Consumer Advocate
200 East Gaines Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: (850) 413-5923
Email: YourFLVoice@MyFloridaCFO.com
