Statutory and regulatory framework
- Fla. Stat. 626.854 (licensing and fees)
- Florida Administrative Code 69O-220 (conduct rules)
- Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (FAPIA) code of ethics
Key ethical requirements
Exclusive representation
- Must represent policyholder only
- Cannot serve carrier simultaneously
- Cannot represent contractor in policyholder matter
Competence
- Claim-type specialization when complex
- Ongoing CE
- Refer when outside expertise
Honesty
- Truthful representation of qualifications
- Accurate scope and claim documentation
- No inflated estimates
Confidentiality
- Client information protected
- Claim details confidential
- Prior clients protected in new matters
Fee structure compliance
- Written contract required
- Cap-compliance mandatory
- No side deals
Conflict avoidance
- Disclosure of potential conflicts
- Consent required before engagement
- Prior carrier employment disclosed
Complaint mechanisms
DFS complaint
- Regulatory body oversees PAs
- Investigation and sanctions available
- Public record of actions
FAPIA ethics complaint
- Professional association
- Complementary to DFS
- Peer review
Civil remedies
- Malpractice suits
- Breach of contract
- Consumer protection claims
What to look for when engaging a PA
- Active Florida license (verify at MyFloridaCFO)
- Written contract with fees disclosed
- Good standing (no significant DFS actions)
- FAPIA membership is a positive signal
- Clear specialty alignment with your claim type