Water damage claims dominate the Florida public adjusting Water damage claims dominate Florida's public adjusting landscape. The state's tropical climate and frequent storms lead to burst pipes, roof leaks, and water intrusion through windows and doors. Public adjusters routinely discover complex damage patterns where water travels through walls and under fl oors, causing hidden structural damage and mold growth that insurance companies might initially miss in their assessments. Hurricane damage represents a signi fi cant portion of claims in Florida. Public adjusters assess widespread damage from high winds, fl ying debris, and water intrusion. They commonly fi nd damage to roo fi ng systems, including lifted shingles, compromised underlayment, and damage to roof decking. Wind-driven rain often penetrates homes through compromised roof systems, leading to extensive interior damage that requires thorough documentation. Roof claims, even outside hurricane season, form a major part of public adjusters' work. Florida's intense sun, frequent thunderstorms, and high humidity create unique wear patterns that can lead to premature roof failure. Public adjusters often identify damage from wind events that insurance companies might attribute to normal wear and tear, requiring detailed documentation and engineering reports. Mold damage claims arise frequently in Florida's humid climate, typically as secondary damage from water intrusion events. Public adjusters must document the source of water damage, extent of mold growth, and necessary remediation steps. They regularly discover mold hidden behind walls, under fl ooring, or in attic spaces that initial insurance inspections missed. Sinkholes and foundation issues present unique challenges due to Florida's limestone bedrock. Public adjusters investigate crack patterns, door frame misalignment, and other signs of potential sinkhole activity. These claims require extensive documentation and often involve geotechnical engineering reports to prove damage causation. Lightning strike claims emerge regularly during Florida's frequent thunderstorms. Public adjusters investigate both direct damage from strikes and secondary damage from power surges. They often identify damaged electrical systems, appliances, and electronic devices that may not show immediate signs of damage but fail prematurely due to surge exposure. Cast iron pipe failures constitute a signi fi cant category of claims in older Florida homes. Public adjusters investigate water damage, backed-up plumbing, and foundation issues related to deteriorating cast iron pipes. These claims often involve extensive documentation of both the pipe failure and resulting property damage. Pool damage claims occur frequently, particularly after storms. Public adjusters assess damage to pool structures, equipment, and surrounding decking. They often discover hidden damage to underground plumbing and electrical systems that require specialized detection methods. Screen enclosure damage, particularly to Florida's ubiquitous pool cages and lanais, forms another common claim category. Public adjusters assess both obvious storm damage and subtle structural issues that may compromise entire enclosure systems. Service line claims, involving damage to underground utilities, require public adjusters to document both line failures and resulting property damage. These claims often involve complex coverage questions and require careful review of policy provisions. For all these claim types, Florida public adjusters must navigate complex insurance policies, strict documentation requirements, and varying interpretations of coverage. They employ advanced documentation techniques, including thermal imaging, moisture mapping, and drone photography to support their fi ndings. Their expertise in identifying and documenting damage patterns speci fi c to Florida's climate and construction methods often leads to more comprehensive claim settlements. The timing of claims also plays a crucial role in Florida. Public adjusters help property owners understand statutory deadlines for fi ling claims and supplemental claims. They often identify additional damage that becomes apparent months after the initial incident, particularly with water and storm damage claims where problems may take time to manifest fully. Their work requires staying current with Florida's evolving insurance regulations, building codes, and construction standards. This knowledge helps them advocate effectively for property owners and ensure claims meet all technical requirements for approval.