Kim Zetta claims she received only $52,000 for her insurance claim, despite a public adjuster estimating the damages to exceed $300,000.

The struggle to return home after Hurricanes Helene and Milton continues for many in the Tampa Bay area, including a St. Petersburg resident who feels her insurance company has underpaid her claim. She contacted 10 Tampa Bay for answers.

“I was walking through a waterfall of rain in my house. It was just devastating,” Zetta recounted to WTSP News.

Recalling the night Hurricane Milton ravaged Pinellas County remains difficult for Zetta. Her home of over 30 years in St. Pete was severely damaged, with the roof scattered throughout the neighborhood.

“Five-by-ten-foot chunks were in the driveway, across the street, on my friend’s car,” she described.

Although she escaped injury, Zetta hired a public adjuster to assess the damage, which included a torn-off roof and water pouring into the house.

“Everything got wet from the top down, with water pooling between the walls,” she explained.

Zetta filed a claim with Citizens Property Insurance, the state-backed insurer. Including contents and living expenses, the claim amounted to over $300,000. Zetta’s policy covered total loss up to $269,000.

“My policy was for $269,000, which should be sufficient for repairs,” she said.

However, Zetta says Citizens initially issued a partial payment of about $52,000, which turned out to be the only payment. Despite appealing, she recently received a letter stating that the insurer’s “previous position has not changed.”

“What am I supposed to do with that? It barely covers gutting the house and putting the drywall back up,” Zetta said. “It’s frustrating knowing the insurance I’ve paid for, in case of need, isn’t coming through.”

WTSP reached out to Citizens to understand the discrepancy between the public adjuster’s estimate and the payout. A spokesperson indicated the case would be reviewed by their appraisal team for reassessment.

For the past several months, with her home in disrepair, Zetta has been living in an RV parked on her lawn.

“This is home sweet home. I’m very blessed to have it,” she said.

While trying to stay positive, Zetta was informed that Citizens plans to issue an advanced check to cover her living expenses.

For those with concerns about their own insurance claims, the state offers an advocate to assist. Reports can be filed at www.MyFloridaCFO.com.

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(Image credit: WTSP)