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Article Courtesy of News4Jax
By Tarik Minor
Published September 5, 2024
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JACKSONVILLE – Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis is issuing a
warning to homeowners about ongoing roofing scams that are costing property
owners thousands of dollars each year.
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While the state has
made progress in tackling fraudulent property insurance
litigation, widespread roofing fraud remains a significant
issue.
For years, Florida has led the nation in property insurance
litigation, contributing to what experts have dubbed a
property insurance crisis. Unfortunately, the state has also
gained a reputation as a hotspot for roofing scams. Although
recent legislation has helped reduce fraudulent lawsuits and
stabilize insurance premiums, roofing fraud continues to be
a widespread problem.
Central Florida resident Robert Feeney was approached three
times by the same roofing company offering a “free” roof
inspection and a low-cost replacement. Feeney wisely
declined the offer, which is exactly what CFO Jimmy Patronis
advises other Floridians to do.
“They said they could come and give me a free roof
inspection to replace my roof, and it would cost me anywhere
from $5 to $1,500 depending on the deductible,” Feeney said.
Patronis stresses the importance of not signing any
documents related to potential damage or insurance without
careful consideration. |
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Family members work together to repair a home after a
tree branch fell, damaging the roof, in Fort Myers
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“And this is why we just preach to people: do not sign anything,” Patronis
said. “Anytime you sign a document related to damage or insurance, you could
be giving your claim to a stranger at your doorstep who then has the power
to bill the insurance company whatever amount they want, ultimately
consuming all of the cash benefits that the policyholder is entitled to.”
Patronis also noted that his office is receiving reports of similar scams in
the solar panel industry. He warns that crooked contractors often research
your home before making contact, knowing details like the age of your roof.
“They follow the weather, and they’ll also pull the permit activity on your
house,” Patronis explained. “If they see that your roof is around 10 years
old, they may target your household, knowing that it’s nearing the end of
its life. They prey on families with older roofs.”
While Patronis is unsure whether new legislation can effectively stop these
types of fraud, he emphasizes that public awareness is the best defense
against such scams.
Homeowners are urged to be cautious and informed, ensuring they don’t fall
victim to fraudulent roofing offers. Public vigilance is key in protecting
yourself from these persistent scams.
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