TLDR
A Florida homeowner had their hurricane insurance claim denied because they unknowingly had the wrong type of insurance policy. They had an HO policy meant for primary residences, while the home was being rented out. This blog post explains the difference between HO and DP policies, why public adjusters are essential, and how to protect yourself from insurance claim denials.
Mendy from My Insurance Claim Expert, brought to you by Panther Public Adjusting, shares a powerful true story every Florida homeowner should hear. One of our clients suffered severe hurricane damage. The roof was destroyed, windows cracked, siding torn off, and debris covered the property. Naturally, they filed an insurance claim. But it was completely denied.
Not because the damage wasn’t real. Not because of a paperwork error. But because the wrong insurance policy had been in place. And unfortunately, the insurance company was technically correct.
This post explains exactly what went wrong and how you can avoid the same devastating mistake. If you own a rental property, a vacation home, or use Airbnb, this could save you thousands.
The Real Story: When a Hurricane Isn’t the Worst Part
This homeowner thought they did everything right. They bought insurance. They paid their premiums. When the storm hit, they called Panther Public Adjusting right away.
We conducted a full property inspection. Our team documented storm-related damage including roof failure, broken windows, and structural concerns. We filed the claim with confidence, believing the damage was clearly covered under the homeowner’s policy.
During the insurance company’s recorded statement, the homeowner casually mentioned that they didn’t live at the house. They had friends staying there. Those friends paid them rent.
That one statement changed everything. The insurance company responded with a letter: While they acknowledged the damage, they stated the property was insured as a primary residence, not a rental property. The claim was denied.
And by the terms of the policy, they were right. The homeowner had unknowingly purchased an insurance product that did not apply to their property’s use.
Understanding the Difference Between HO and DP Policies
To avoid this nightmare, every Florida homeowner needs to understand the key differences between HO and DP insurance policies.
HO Policies (Homeowners Insurance)
These are for properties where the owner lives, either full-time or part-time. They may cover a second home or vacation house, but the key factor is that you reside there. If you’re renting the home to someone else, even short-term, the HO policy does not apply.
DP Policies (Dwelling Property Insurance)
These policies are for rental homes, including long-term tenants, mid-term leases, and in some cases, short-term rentals. The coverage structure is different and designed to protect landlord-owned properties.
Many homeowners think letting a friend stay over or renting to someone casually does not change anything. But in the eyes of insurance companies, the minute rent is collected, the usage becomes rental, and a dwelling policy is required.
What About Airbnb or Vacation Rentals?
Short-term rental properties fall into an even more complicated category. Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com have made it easy to rent out your home by the day or week. But this also introduces a huge insurance risk.
Many standard homeowner or dwelling policies exclude short-term rental activity. If your guests are paying to stay for days or weeks, and your policy does not explicitly cover short-term rentals, you may have zero protection in the event of damage.
Some policies allow for endorsements or add-ons that cover this use. Others do not. Either way, it is your responsibility to ensure the coverage is right.
Our team has seen multiple cases where homeowners lost thousands in denied claims because their short-term rental activity was never disclosed or wasn’t covered.
Why You Must Double Check What Your Agent Submits
Insurance applications often get auto-filled by agents who think they know your situation. But if they check the wrong box or mislabel your property’s use, you are the one who pays the price.
Many homeowners assume their agent knows what to submit. But it is your duty to review that application carefully. Look at every field. Confirm the use of the home is listed accurately. Make sure the agent knows if you rent the home out, how often, and to whom.
Once the policy is signed and accepted, it becomes the official record. Any inconsistencies could void your claim later on.
To learn more about common missteps like this, take a moment to read about the biggest insurance claim mistakes homeowners make.
How a Public Adjuster Can Protect You Before and After a Claim
Public adjusters are not just helpful when your claim gets denied. They are valuable before you file anything.
By bringing in a licensed adjuster like Panther Public Adjusting early in the process, we can:
- Review your current policy for proper coverage
- Identify risky exclusions or usage mismatches
- Help document all storm or property damage thoroughly
- Represent you in communication with the insurance company
- Negotiate a fair and full settlement
Hiring a public adjuster is not a maybe. It is the smartest move you can make as a Florida homeowner.
Whether you live in Palmetto, Miami, or Englewood, we fight for your payout, not the insurer’s profits.
Florida Cities We Serve
Panther Public Adjusting serves homeowners throughout Florida. If you live in areas like:
- Sarasota
- Ruskin
- Venice
- Tampa
- Saint Petersburg
- Miami
We can review your policy and help protect your claim. If you’re in Sarasota or Tampa, our local experts are just a call away.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
If you’re reading this and unsure about your policy, act now.
âś… Contact us through our website for a free consultation
âś… Email your policy for review and get feedback from an expert
âś… Call our team directly at 833 726 8437 for immediate help
Want More Real Stories and Free Advice?
We post weekly videos on our YouTube channel My Insurance Claim Expert where Mendy breaks down real cases, teaches claim strategies, and gives you the tools to fight back against denied payouts.
Also, join the conversation in our Facebook community Anything About Property Insurance Claims 101 where Florida homeowners swap stories, ask questions, and stay informed.
Don’t Let the Insurance Company Win
Insurance carriers are trained to deny, delay, and minimize payouts. They have lawyers, adjusters, and experts on their side. You need someone on yours.
Our team at Panther Public Adjusting exists to level the playing field. We make sure your voice is heard, your loss is documented, and your payout is fair.
âś… Call now at 833 726 8437
âś… Email Claims@PantherPA.com with your policy today
âś… Reach out through our website and let us go to work for you
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the main difference between an HO and a DP policy?
A: HO (Homeowners) policies are for properties you live in, while DP (Dwelling Property) policies are designed for rental properties. Using the wrong one can result in denied claims.
Q2: Can I use an HO policy for my vacation rental or Airbnb?
A: Generally no. Most HO policies do not cover short-term rentals. You need specific coverage that includes vacation or Airbnb-type use.
Q3: When should I contact a public adjuster?
A: Ideally before you file a claim. Public adjusters can review your policy, document damage properly, and fight to maximize your insurance payout from day one.