Pro-consumer legislation sponsored by Senator Annette Taddeo (D-Miami) that will ensure that no homeowner is duped into believing that flood insurance is included under their hurricane policy was signed into law yesterday by the governor.
“When Hurricane Andrew hit, my parent’s neighborhood was flooded and I saw the immense difference between those who had flood insurance and those who didn’t,” said Senator Taddeo. “Twenty-five years later when Hurricane Irma made landfall, this discrepancy had not changed. I met many constituents who had no idea that their hurricane coverage did not include protections when their homes flooded. This is especially problematic in South Florida as we face sea level rise and stronger storm surges from climate change.”
Sponsored in the House by Democratic Leader Janet Cruz (D-Tampa), SB 1282/HB 1011 An Act Related To Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Disclosures, requires that policyholders are notified in writing and made to initial a statement informing them that purchasing hurricane insurance does not provide them with flood coverage and does not enroll them in the National Flood Insurance Program. This is to encourage policyholders to discuss the full range of options with their insurance agents.
The bill will take effect July of 2019.
