Contractor Talk with Richie Kidwell

Building Blocks: Protecting Your Home From the Inside Out

In this episode of Contractor Talk, Richie Kidwell and co-host Property Damage Attorney Hans Kennon discuss storm season preparedness across Central Florida, including recent hail activity, generator and fuel safety, and the importance of staying ready for severe weather events. They also cover a reported earthquake near Cuba that was felt across parts of Florida and what homeowners should keep in mind as hurricane season approaches. Joining the show is James Groves, founder of Hole in the Wall Drywall Repair. James shares how his Orlando-based company has grown into a nationwide franchise by focusing on expert drywall repairs, texture matching, popcorn ceiling restoration, fast estimates, and strong relationships with restoration contractors and homeowners alike. The conversation explores franchise growth, employee training through the School of Rock Drywall Academy, marketing strategies, Xactimate estimating, quality control systems, and the role drywall professionals play in restoration projects.

Defending Your Property: Insights on Navigating Insurance Challenges

In this episode of Contractor Talk, Richie Kidwell and co-host property damage attorney Hans Kennon break down Florida’s property insurance landscape and what homeowners should know right now. They cover why homeowners should be wary of calling insurers just to “ask questions” about claims, as well as common carrier tactics such as restrictive check language and direct repair programs that steer work toward insurer-approved contractors while limiting accountability. The discussion also touches on recent legislative changes that have reduced consumer protections, as well as broader market shifts, including insurer exits, Citizens depopulation, FIGA costs, and the impact of new carriers entering the state. Special guest Tony Busby of Great Florida Insurance shares practical advice on shopping for policies through an agent, reviewing renewals closely, and identifying red flags such as capped water-damage coverage and actual-cash-value policies. He also explains how simple inquiries can sometimes be logged as claims. The episode wraps with insights on hurricane season expectations, FEMA concerns, and proposed property tax changes affecting local services.

The Restoration Industry's Battle with Big Insurance in Florida

How prepared are Florida homeowners for this year’s storm season? In this episode of Contractor Talk, Richie Kidwell and co-host property damage attorney Hans Kennon discuss the realities of navigating insurance claims before and after major storms. Joined by special guest John Richardson of Kennon Law, the conversation explores how El Niño and La Niña weather patterns may impact hurricane activity, why documenting damage early is critical, and the strict deadlines Florida homeowners face when filing or supplementing claims. The episode also takes a deeper look at how insurance companies evaluate claims, including the use of engineers, ladder-assist vendors, satellite imagery, and wear-and-tear arguments that can lead to denials. Richie, Hans, and John break down common policy pitfalls such as right-to-repair clauses, roof payment schedules, and takeout policies, and discuss reports of increased denials following Hurricane Milton. If you’re a Florida homeowner, contractor, or property owner trying to better understand storm damage claims and insurance coverage, this episode offers valuable insight into the current landscape.

Understanding Roofing Repairs: Ensuring Peace of Mind for Homeowners

Richie Kidwell and co-host, property damage attorney Hans Kennon, return with Contractor Talk to discuss Florida’s changing property insurance landscape and why the correct “date of loss” can make or break a roofing claim, especially when damage is discovered months later. They break down shrinking coverage, rising premiums, claim handling tactics, and ongoing legal battles impacting homeowners across Florida. Special guests Jenson Pedraza and Pedro from Midas Roofing share how their company is raising the standard for roofing craftsmanship through free inspections, detailed photo reports, instant roof estimate tools, and financing options that help homeowners move forward with repairs during insurance disputes. If you are dealing with roof damage, insurance claims, or preparing your home for storm season, this episode offers valuable insights for Florida homeowners and contractors alike.

Navigating Legal Challenges in Florida’s Insurance Industry

In this episode of Contractor Talk with Richie Kidwell, Richie sits down with Bobby Vickery of Boltz Legal to discuss the current state of Florida’s insurance landscape and what recent legislative changes mean for homeowners, contractors, and public adjusters. They break down how changes in attorney fee laws are affecting access to legal representation and why many homeowners may now face greater challenges when pursuing property damage claims. The conversation also explores insurance company tactics, including the use of subsidiaries, rate increases, and evolving policy structures that can limit coverage. Bobby shares firsthand insight from his experience during Hurricane Ian, including dealing with insurer insolvency, delays due to FIGA, and the financial strain many policyholders faced. They also highlight the importance of pre-storm documentation, policy reviews, and understanding coverage before disaster strikes. Throughout the episode, Richie and Bobby discuss the broader implications of regulatory decisions, the role of advocacy groups such as the Restoration Association of Florida, and steps homeowners can take to better protect themselves in an increasingly complex insurance environment.