What "prompt" means
- Immediate for major events (fire, storm, pipe burst)
- Within days for discovered damage
- Never more than a few weeks without written explanation
Fla. Stat. 627.70132 caps
- 1 year from date of loss for initial claim
- 18 months for supplemental or reopened
Why delay hurts even within statutory window
- Evidence degrades (mold, corrosion, subsequent weather)
- Witnesses' memories fade
- Carrier argues prejudice
What to do
Report immediately. Clarify scope later. Never delay notice to avoid a rate impact.