Document Prep Checklist: Filing a Claim with Florida’s Construction Recovery Fund
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This checklist ensures homeowners gather all required documentation before submitting a claim to the Florida Homeowners’ Construction Recovery Fund.
1. Eligibility Confirmation
[ ] Final judgment, arbitration award, or CILB restitution order based on contractor misconduct under Fla. Stat. §489.129(1)(g), (j), or (k).
[ ] Contractor held a valid license at the time of the violation.
[ ] Claim filed within 1 year of the final order or judgment.
[ ] Claimant is a homeowner as defined by Fla. Stat. §489.1402(1)(f).
2. Required Claim Documents
[ ] Claim Form (DBPR Recovery Fund Claim Form)[6].
[ ] Proof of Loss Affidavit – detailing amount, cause, dates, and mitigation efforts[4].
[ ] Copy of Judgment or Restitution Order – must show basis for claim.
[ ] Copy of Construction Contract – signed by both parties.
[ ] Invoices, Receipts, and Payment Records – to show financial loss.
[ ] Photos or Reports – documenting incomplete or defective work.
[ ] Correspondence with Contractor – emails, letters, texts showing dispute.
3. Asset Search Documentation
[ ] Affidavit of Diligent Asset Search:
Short form (claims ≤ $15,000)
Long form (claims ≥ $15,001)
[ ] Search Results:
| Bonds or letters of creditReal property records (tax assessor, clerk of court) | DMV vehicle ownershipBankruptcy schedules (if applicable) |
[ ] Supporting Documents:
Printouts, deeds, lien records, mortgage statements
Notarized affidavit with attachments
4. Submission Package
[ ] Cover Letter or Transmittal Note – summarizing contents.
[ ] Document Quality Checklist – verify legibility and completeness[4].
[ ] Client Accuracy Attestation – signed confirmation of facts.
[ ] Binder or Folder – keep copies of all submitted materials.
5. Submission Method
[ ] Mail or hand-deliver to:
- Florida Homeowners’ Construction Recovery Fund
- 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-2215
[ ] No online portal available – physical submission required.
6. Post-Submission Tracking
[ ] Contact DBPR to Track Submission
[ ] Issue Escalation Template – for delays or missing responses.
[ ] Hearing Prep Materials (if applicable):
- Attendance confirmation
- Hearing outline
- Appearance memo
Preparing a complete and well-organized claim package is essential to improving your chances of recovery through Florida’s Construction Recovery Fund. By verifying eligibility, gathering the required documentation, conducting a diligent asset search, and following DBPR submission procedures, homeowners can avoid delays and strengthen the credibility of their claim. Staying proactive—both before and after submission—helps ensure the process moves forward smoothly.
If you need help preparing your claim, evaluating eligibility, or responding to DBPR inquiries, the construction law attorneys at Jimerson Birr can guide you through every step of the process and help protect your rights.