Managing Shareholder
Hurricane season is a fact of life for Floridians, and when a storm strikes, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between the damage to your property, concerns for safety, and navigating the insurance process, it’s easy to feel lost. However, taking prompt and informed actions is crucial to protect your rights and property. In this guide, Tomlinson Law Group walks you through the steps you need to take after a hurricane to safeguard your interests.
Ensure Safety First
Your safety and the safety of your loved ones should always be your top priority. If the hurricane has severely impacted your area, follow any evacuation orders or stay in a safe location until authorities confirm that it’s safe to return.
- Evacuate or Seek Shelter: Follow evacuation orders or find a safe place to stay until it’s safe to return home.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with local news and emergency alerts to stay aware of any changing conditions.
Check for Immediate Dangers
Before you assess any damage to your property, ensure there are no immediate dangers. Be cautious of downed power lines, gas leaks, and unstable structures. Avoid floodwaters at all costs—they can be contaminated or hide dangerous debris. If you encounter any immediate hazards, contact emergency services right away.
Document Property Damage
Once it’s safe to do so, thoroughly document all the damage to your property. Use your phone or camera to take clear, detailed photos and videos of your home’s exterior and interior. Make sure to include damaged personal belongings like furniture, electronics, and important documents. This visual evidence will be crucial when you file your insurance claim.
- Capture Exterior and Interior Damage: Document all areas of damage, both inside and outside your home.
- Include Personal Belongings: Take photos of damaged personal items to support your claim.
- Ensure Clarity and Detail: Your photos and videos should be clear and detailed to provide strong evidence for your insurance claim.
Create a Written Inventory
In addition to visual documentation, create a detailed written inventory of all the damaged items. Include descriptions, estimated values, and any receipts or proof of purchase if you have them. It’s also important to note any pre-existing damage to help differentiate it from the damage caused by the hurricane. This comprehensive record will be invaluable when working with your insurance company.
- List Damaged Items: Write down a detailed list of all damaged items, including descriptions and estimated values.
- Include Pre-existing Damage: Note any damage that existed before the hurricane to avoid confusion.
- Keep Receipts: Gather receipts or proof of purchase for damaged items to provide to your insurer.
Contact Your Insurance Company
After documenting the damage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. The sooner you notify them, the quicker the assessment and settlement process can begin. Be sure to keep records of all communications with your insurer, including phone calls, emails, and in-person meetings. Regularly follow up to check on your claim’s progress and ensure that all necessary information has been provided.
- File a Claim Promptly: Contact your insurance company right away to start your claim.
- Keep Records of Communication: Document every interaction with your insurer.
- Follow Up Regularly: Stay in touch with your insurance company to monitor the progress of your claim.
Understand Your Policy Coverage
It is essential to review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what isn’t. Familiarize yourself with the details of your coverage, including deductibles, limits, and exclusions. Don’t hesitate to ask your insurance adjuster questions about your coverage, the claims process, or the timeline for assessments and repairs. Always request written confirmation of any critical information or assurances to avoid misunderstandings later.
- Review Your Insurance Policy: Understand your coverage, including deductibles and exclusions.
- Ask Questions: Get clarity on your coverage and the claims process.
- Get Clarifications in Writing: Request written confirmation of essential details from your insurer.
Mitigate Further Damage
To prevent further damage to your property, take immediate steps to secure your home, such as tarping a damaged roof, boarding up broken windows, or covering exposed areas with plastic sheeting. Before making any temporary repairs, take photos of the damage and save receipts for any materials or services used, as these costs may be reimbursable under your insurance policy. However, avoid making permanent repairs until your insurance adjuster has inspected the damage, as unauthorized repairs could complicate your claim.
- Prevent Additional Damage: Take steps to secure your property and prevent further harm.
- Document the Repairs: Photograph the damage before making temporary repairs and save receipts.
- Avoid Permanent Repairs: Hold off on permanent repairs until after the insurance inspection.
Hire Licensed Contractors
When making permanent repairs, hire licensed and insured contractors to ensure the work is done correctly and complies with local building codes. It’s a good idea to get estimates from several contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Your insurance company may require multiple quotes before approving the repair costs. Before hiring a contractor, check their references and read online reviews to ensure they have a good reputation for quality work and reliability.
Secure Your Recovery: Act Fast and Protect Your Rights After a Hurricane
After a hurricane, every moment counts. Taking swift and decisive action protects your property and ensures you’re fully compensated for your losses. By prioritizing safety, thoroughly documenting damage, and working closely with your insurance company, you lay the groundwork for a successful claim. Should you encounter any obstacles, our experienced Coral Springs legal team is here to advocate for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and start rebuilding with confidence.