Florida’s Department of Financial Services opened an Insurance Assistance Hub in Destin on Sunday, less than two days after Hurricane Isaias made landfall in the Panhandle. Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia’s office says it is the fastest the state has ever stood up an in-person claims center after a hurricane.
Where and When
The hub is at the Morgan Sports Complex, 4200 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin, FL 32541. It is open Monday, October 12 through Friday, October 16, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Central. Twelve insurance companies had representatives on site on the first day, with more expected during the week. Policyholders who cannot attend can call the Department of Financial Services at 1-877-693-5236.
What the Hub Can Do
- Help you file a claim or check the status of one already filed
- Answer questions about what your policy covers
- Connect you with your insurance company’s representatives in person
What the Hub Cannot Do
The hub does not pay claims, guarantee settlements, or process FEMA assistance. The people across the table work for the insurance companies. Their estimate of your damage is the insurance company’s number, not a neutral one.
What to Bring
- Your policy number and declarations page
- Photos and video of the damage, taken before any cleanup
- A list of damaged items and any receipts you have
- Any letters or emails your insurer has already sent
If you go, get names, get everything in writing, and do not sign anything that assigns your claim benefits to another company. When you get home, compare the insurer’s number with an independent inspection of the full damage.
Policyholder Advocacy Group offers a Free 21-Point Storm Inspection for Panhandle property owners. Read our full Hurricane Isaias claim guide before you file. Free claim review: call 800.511.2240.