By Eli Goins · FL DFS #P159790 · Reviewed: · 1 min read
Short answer: FAPIA research and the 2010 Florida OPPAGA study have historically shown policyholders with public adjuster representation receive materially higher settlements, particularly after hurricanes (individual results vary). A request-for-information cycle is a delay tactic: the carrier asks for documents, reviews slowly, then asks for more, adding two to four weeks each round. Short-circuit it by submitting comprehensive documentation upfront and responding completely, and note that Fla. Stat. 627.70131 deadlines run regardless of the request pattern.
How RFI cycles unfold
- Carrier requests specific documents/information
- Policyholder gathers and submits
- Carrier reviews (taking days or weeks)
- Carrier requests additional information
- Cycle repeats
Each cycle can add 2-4 weeks to claim resolution.
Common RFI categories
- Proof of ownership for contents
- Maintenance records
- Prior claim history
- Repair receipts
- Permits and inspections
- Financial documents (commercial)
- Sworn statement / proof of loss
How to short-circuit
Provide comprehensive initial documentation
- Anticipate likely requests
- Submit thorough file upfront
- Pre-empt common RFI categories
Respond quickly and completely
- Don't drip-respond (triggers more cycles)
- Submit everything requested at once
- Acknowledge receipt expectation in writing
Push back on inappropriate RFIs
- Requests not supported by policy language
- Requests outside claim scope
- Requests for documents the carrier already has
Cite statutory deadlines
- 627.70131 deadlines run regardless of RFI pattern
- Document pause requests and timeline