Attendees Gain Tips for Smarter Claims Handling
ORLANDO, Fla. — DDA Forensics was proud to contribute to the 2025 Florida Insurance Fraud Education Committee’s (FIFEC) Annual Conference, held July 23–25 at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld. The event featured two impactful sessions presented by Managing Partner Jonathon Diego and Director of Engineering Dr. Ziad Azzi. The conference brought together fraud investigators, insurance professionals, and forensic experts for three days of education and networking.
Presentation: “Recognizing Wind Damage”
Azzi presented “Recognizing Wind Damage: Where and What to Look For,” guiding participants through the complexities of assessing wind-related losses, including damage to shingle and tile roof systems. The session included real-world examples, photo documentation, and an in-depth analysis of how to distinguish wind-related damage from other causes such as installation defects or wear and tear.
“It was an immense pleasure meeting attorneys, adjusters, business developers, and claims professionals at the FIFEC conference. It was an honor to present and share insights on wind science, wind engineering principles, and field observations. I briefly introduced the hot topic: wind vs. storm surge damage assessment. Stay tuned for a journal paper on this to be published by the end of the year! At DDA Forensics, our engineers are highly skilled in civil, forensic, structural, and wind engineering concepts, with decades of field, theoretical, and practical experience. We provide clear, concise, conclusive findings,” said Azzi.
Azzi also emphasized the adjuster’s role in accurate documentation and the importance of engineering clarity in supporting defensible claims.
“All the attendees were engaged, even on the last day of the conference. Many came up to me and said this was the best class they have participated in, in addition to Jonathon’s of course. Both were fantastic presentations!” said Brian Peterson, Managing Partner at DDA Forensics.
Presentation: “Consideration of Xactimate Application and Ethical Issues”
Diego co-presented “Consideration of Xactimate Application and Ethical Issues” alongside Jose Pagan, Vice President of Claims at Certus Claims Administration. The course delivered a comprehensive overview of the responsibilities of professionals authorized to represent insured parties in property insurance claims, emphasizing both legal and technical frameworks. A key focus of the session was on the use of Xactimate, cost databases, and pricing models, highlighting how ethical practices and transparency are essential to avoid pricing manipulation and ensure accurate claims resolution.
“This course provides attendees with real-world insights that bridge the gap between estimation technology and legal best practices, empowering them to handle claims more effectively and compliantly. We’re dedicated to equipping the industry with the tools and training needed to navigate complex claims with confidence and integrity,” said Diego.
DDA Forensics recently launched a Continuing Education program and now offers classes, presentations, and webinars for adjusters and attorneys throughout the nation. The program is designed to elevate industry knowledge, support licensure requirements, and foster ethical, effective claims handling. Stay tuned for more upcoming events, CE/CLE opportunities, and educational content from the DDA team.
About DDA Forensics
DDA Forensics provides forensic engineering, building consulting and expert witness services for attorneys and insurance carriers throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas. We specialize in evaluating and determining the cause of property damage and failures for residential and commercial structures. With over 20 years of experience, the most advanced education, certifications and technologies, we provide objective and accurate forensic investigations that yield clear, concise, conclusive results. Learn more at www.DDAForensics.com.
About the Florida Insurance Fraud Education Committee (FIFEC)
FIFEC is a joint effort between the Florida Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) and the Special Investigation Units of the Insurance Industry to facilitate communication and education. FIFEC offers continuous training seminars for DIFS and SIU investigators, law enforcement, prosecutors, insurance adjusters and management, and insurance defense in the ongoing fight to combat insurance fraud. Learn more at https://www.fifec.org/.
Media Inquiries:
Angela Delmedico
Elev8 Consulting Group
Ph: 386-243-5388
Em: info@elev8cg.com
Web: www.elev8cg.com
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