Hurricane insurance claim
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By Brandon Tomlinson
Managing Shareholder

Filing your hurricane insurance claim on time ensures you receive the compensation you deserve. In Florida, where hurricanes are common, taking quick action after a storm can make all the difference in protecting your home and property. Insurance policies often have strict deadlines; missing them could mean losing out on vital funds to repair damage. By filing promptly, you can help prevent delays, document your losses accurately, and speed up the process of getting back on your feet.

Legal Deadlines for Hurricane Insurance Claims in Florida

Florida has specific legal deadlines for filing hurricane insurance claims that homeowners must be aware of to protect their right to compensation. Under Florida law, homeowners typically have up to one year from the date of the hurricane made landfall to file an insurance claim. Failing to file within this deadline can result in your claim being denied, leaving you responsible for covering repair costs out of pocket. Additionally, submitting your claim promptly ensures that damage is documented while it’s still fresh, preventing disputes with the insurance company over the extent of the loss. 

Consequences of Filing Late

Filing a hurricane insurance claim late can have serious consequences. If you miss the deadline set by Florida law or your insurance policy, your claim may be denied outright, leaving you without the funds needed to repair your home or property. Even if your claim is accepted, delays can lead to disputes over the extent of damage, as insurers may argue that further deterioration occurred after the storm. This can result in reduced payouts or lengthy investigations. Filing late also increases the risk of financial strain as repairs and recovery efforts are delayed without the necessary funds.

Benefits of Filing Your Claim Promptly

Filing your hurricane insurance claim promptly offers numerous benefits that can make the recovery process smoother and more efficient. Acting quickly after a storm helps protect your rights and ensures you receive the compensation you deserve. Key benefits include:

  • Faster Claims Processing: Submitting your claim promptly often leads to quicker processing by the insurance company, allowing you to receive payment sooner and begin repairs without unnecessary delays.
  • Accurate Damage Documentation: Filing right after the storm helps ensure the damage is properly documented. The more time that passes, the harder it may become to prove that all damage was caused by the hurricane.
  • Minimized Risk of Denial: Adhering to your insurance policy’s deadline reduces the risk of your claim being denied for late submission.
  • Smoother Negotiations with Insurers: Filing early can create a more cooperative relationship with the insurance company, as they may see that you are organized and proactive in addressing the damage.

Help with Your Hurricane Insurance Claim in Florida

At Tomlinson Law Group, we understand the urgency of filing your hurricane insurance claim within the required deadlines. We assist by reviewing your insurance policy, ensuring you are aware of all time limits, and helping you gather the necessary documentation for a complete and timely claim. Our team will handle any challenges that arise with your insurer. Contact us today to get started and protect your rights.

About the Author
Brandon Tomlinson has a decade of expertise in Insurance Claim Law and Litigation, specializing in drafting and reviewing legal documents. He began his career defending insurance carriers in various areas, gaining a comprehensive understanding of both insurers' and plaintiffs' positions. His experience as an Investigator for the Public Defender and working in construction further broadened his skill set. Before founding Tomlinson Law Group in 2016, he worked at an international law firm and served as Managing Shareholder at another firm, where he managed employees and the litigation department. Now, as Managing Shareholder at Tomlinson Law Group, he handles property damage claims for restoration companies, homeowners, and businesses.