Insurance discounts available

Few of us in Northwest Florida are satisfied that property insurance is sufficiently available or affordable. But there are some positive steps that have been taken and that you may possibly find helpful.

As you may know, I supported legislation to require insurance companies to provide discounts when owners take steps to make their properties safer and stronger. Some insurance companies have followed the law and their policyholders have at least received some discounts. Unfortunately, other insurance companies have lagged behind and for reasons I find unconvincing have not let policyholders know that some savings are at least possible.

Along with other legislators, I have urged the Office of Insurance Regulation to take immediate action to ensure that all companies comply with the law. As a result, OIR has sent [a] directive to all property and casualty insurance companies in the state. I thought you might appreciate knowing what your insurance company is being told.

Those of us who live and work in what's called "Hurricane Alley" are praying for another quiet year. But, meanwhile, I want to make certain that any Floridian who qualifies is able to take advantage of whatever premium discounts are available.

To see what discounts your insurer offers, go to www.dca.state.fl.us/fdem/mitdb and scroll down to "START." Insurers do require that the work you've done to mitigate risk to your property be documented. You can accomplish that either by a licensed inspector or through Florida's free property inspection program. Florida residents can request free inspections at www.MySafeFloridaHome.com or by calling toll-free 866-513- 6734.

If your insurer refuses to accept inspection results and give you a discount, you should immediately contact the Department of Financial Services at 800-342-2762.

You may also be eligible for state funding to assist in making your property safer and more hurricane-resistant. There are criteria for state funding including having a state inspection, living in a single family sitebuilt home constructed before March, 2002 and located in a wind-borne debris region. The structure must be worth less than $300,000.

If you have any questions about the attachment, please feel free to directly contact the Office of Insurance Regulation using the contact information given.

Thank you for continuing to stay in touch. It means a great deal when you take the time to share your views. You can email me at gaetz.don.web@flsenate.gov , call our office toll-free at 866- 450-4DON or write me at PO Box 1234, Niceville, Florida 32588.

Your suggestions, criticisms, and guidance help me be a better senator for you.