Despite three hurricanes hitting Florida this year, insurers are starting to give homeowners breaks.
Citizens Property Insurance CEO Tim Cerio says dozens of private companies are not asking for premium increases this year, and 15 are actually offering decreases.
He adds, "Existing companies are expanding their writings in Florida, and there have been several national companies that have affirmed their commitment to Florida following the reform - the legislative reforms - USAA, Progressive and State Farm, to name a few."
He adds, nine new companies are ready to enter the market.
He expects by the end of the month, the insurer of last resort will be down to about 900,000 policies.
Cerio is also firing back at reports that it has denied a majority of claims.
He admits of the more than 73,000 claims filed after Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton, nearly 32,000 have been closed without payment. Of those about 40-percent didn't meet the deductible. Other damage was caused by floods, which is not covered by Citizens.
But to ensure public trust, "I have asked Joe Martins, our Chief of Internal Audit, to conduct an independent audit of our claims, denials and closures for Debby, Helene and Milton. I think that's important. I'd like him to do this audit and to make any recommendations he feels are appropriate."