It Starts With a Simple Promise…
You file a claim after a storm. Your roof’s leaking. The ceiling is bubbling. A few days later, the insurer responds: “We are executing our right to repair and will handle the work.”
It sounds like a relief. But in reality, it might be the start of a costly, frustrating experience you didn’t agree to.
Florida insurers are increasingly invoking something called the Right to Repair (RTR) — a clause buried in many policies that lets them take control of the repair process instead of paying you the money owed. They choose the contractor. They define the scope. And too often, they cut corners, delay the work, or leave damage unaddressed.
Did you know? Since 2020, complaints involving Right to Repair in Florida have more than doubled, according to data from consumer advocacy groups and legal filings.
If you’re facing this situation — or just want to understand how to be prepared — this article walks you through a four-part strategy to hold insurers accountable and ensure your home is repaired properly, legally, and completely.
This is part of the Tiger System, the strategic framework we use at Tighe P.A. to help policyholders take control, fight back, and win.
Step 1: Did Your Insurer Follow the Rules? Possibly Not.
Before an insurer can invoke Right to Repair, they must do it by the book. It’s not automatic — it has to be written clearly into your policy and invoked properly under Florida law.
Here’s What to Check:
- Is there an explicit RTR clause in your policy? Vague references to “repair” don’t count.
- Did the insurer notify you in writing, on time, and with specifics?
- Did they choose a licensed contractor with a scope of work that addresses all damages?
If they missed any step, their right to repair may be void or waived. And that gives you a critical opening to demand a payout or challenge the process.
Tiger Tip: “If it’s not written, it didn’t happen.” Insurers are required to follow their own rules — and if they don’t, you hold the power.
Next step: Even if their election is valid, they’re still bound by strict laws. That’s where you strike next.
Step 2: The Law’s On Your Side — Use It
Right to Repair isn’t a free-for-all. Florida law sets clear standards for how insurers must communicate, coordinate, and complete repairs.
Key Legal Protections for Homeowners:
- Fla. Stat. § 627.7011(5)(e): Repairs must be completed promptly, with permits, and by licensed professionals.
- Fla. Stat. § 627.70131: Insurers must conduct inspections within 45 days and provide written estimates within 7 days of the inspection.
- Fla. Stat. § 627.7142: The “Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights” must be delivered within 14 days, outlining your options.
When insurers delay, send vague updates, or fail to pull permits, they violate the law. And that’s when we use Civil Remedy Notices (CRNs) — a formal way to document violations and set the stage for legal recourse.
Tiger Tip: CRNs aren’t just paperwork. They’re pressure — legal signals that the clock is ticking and consequences are coming.
Still, rules alone don’t guarantee results. The real power comes from watching what they do — not just what they say.
Step 3: Let Them Repair — But Watch Like a Hawk
Instead of blocking repairs, there’s a smarter strategy: let them proceed — under your terms.
We regularly bring in construction counsel to monitor the repair process. Think of this as putting an expert in the room who speaks both law and building code.
What Oversight Does:
- Ensures permits are pulled and closed
- Forces the contractor to follow code and manufacturer standards
- Prevents scope manipulation or skipped repairs
- Creates a real-time paper trail of every step (or misstep)
Insurers often rely on policyholders not knowing what to look for. But when you bring in oversight, the economics change — their cheap fix suddenly costs more than doing it right the first time.
Tiger Tip: Oversight isn’t obstruction — it’s protection. The more light you shine on the process, the fewer corners they can cut.
But don’t stop once the repairs are “done.” That’s when you get proof.
Step 4: They Fixed It? Prove It.
Once the insurer finishes the work, your job isn’t over. You need to inspect it — independently and thoroughly.
Bring in a licensed, unbiased contractor to assess the work. If there are cut corners, missed damage, or code violations, their report becomes your leverage.
What Inspections Often Uncover:
- Interior damage that was never addressed
- Repairs made with substandard or improper materials
- Shoddy workmanship or dangerous shortcuts
- Scope that didn’t match the original loss
This inspection becomes the foundation for:
- Filing a supplemental claim
- Demanding repairs under warranty
- Taking legal action for breach of contract
Tiger Tip: RTR doesn’t end the story — it opens a new chapter. Inspection = evidence. Evidence = power.
What It All Adds Up To
Right to Repair isn’t about helping homeowners — it’s about protecting insurers’ bottom lines.
But when you understand your rights, enforce the rules, and bring the right team to the table, you can flip the script. You get control back. You get your home repaired the right way. And you make sure they’re held accountable every step of the way.
Not Sure What Your Insurer is Planning? Let’s Talk.
If your insurer has invoked Right to Repair — or you think they might — this is your moment to act.
At Tighe P.A., we’ve helped thousands of homeowners challenge unfair repair tactics and recover the compensation they actually deserve. Our Tiger System blends legal firepower, construction expertise, and smart documentation — all built to protect policyholders like you.
Call us at 1-855-LOSS-PRO (567-7776)
Or book a free consultation today at tighepa.com
We’ll review your policy, answer your questions, and help you build a plan to take back control.
Storm season doesn’t wait — and neither should you.
Relevant Resources and Citations
- Florida Statute § 627.7011(5)(e) – Repair Requirements
- Florida Statute § 627.70131 – Timely Communication
- Florida Statute § 627.7142 – Claims Bill of Rights
- Civil Remedy Notice Portal – Florida Department of Financial Services
- Case Commentary: People’s Trust v. Chen
- Florida Building Code
