After natural disasters such as Hurricane Matthew, it is not uncommon for fraudulent schemes to pray on those experiencing a loss. This is why Edison Insurance Company is urging our policyholders to call us first to protect themselves from fraud.
Should you have been affected by Hurricane Matthew, please be weary of contractors going door-to-door to solicit repair and cleanup services. These contractors may be out-of-town "storm chasers" who may not have the proper licenses to make the repairs they promise to deliver. There is a high probability Assignment of Benefit (AOB) forms will be offered to policyholders from these contractors soliciting business or making emergency repairs. When an AOB form is signed by a homeowner, they are assigning their rights under their homeowners insurance policy to the vendor, and allowing all payments to be made directly to the vendor for their repairs. The issue we continue to see throughout the state is AOB fraud, where crooked contractors and lawyers inflate the cost of repairs, charge a fee for handling the claim, and commit insurance fraud. At times, these repairs are not completed, and the homeowner must pay out of pocket to finish the repairs, since the contractor has already collected all the money from the insurance company.
While we understand the temptation to aid in the recovery process by beginning repairs to your home as soon as possible, please do not sign any forms without speaking with Edison Insurance Company or your agent. Our claims representatives are here to assist you. Please report your claim by calling 888-683-7971.
If you suspect fraud, please report it immediately to the Department of Financial Services at 877-693-5236. To report suspected fraud on an Edison Insurance policy, call 888-683-7171 (Option 4) or email REPORTFRAUD@EDISONINSURANCE.COM. For more information on Insurance Fraud in Florida, click here.
Allow Edison Insurance Company to shine our light on you and your family by insuring your home, condominium, and precious belongings. Should the unexpected occur, you will be our main focus while we restore your home. To learn more about Edison Insurance Company, please give us a call for a home insurance quote at 866-568-8922 or visit our website.
