Helping Floridians With Hurricane Damage Insurance Claims
Florida and hurricanes seem to be synonymous at times. Whether it’s your first or 50th hurricane, figuring out what the next step is can be a lot of stress. Whether the damage is to your home, business, or both, the to-do list can seem never-ending. We understand the toll hurricanes take on you and your family.
Tomlinson Law Group can help. Our team of experienced attorneys is passionate about representing Floridians from Coral Springs to Orlando and all the way up to the panhandle. We can take the challenges and stress of fighting for your claim off your shoulders so you can focus on what’s really important to you.
Challenges With Insurance Claims
After a hurricane, insurance companies are flooded with claims, which can lead to delayed processing, underpayment, or even denial of coverage altogether. In fact, these issues with insurance companies are so common that the Florida legislature created a “Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights” explaining your rights and certain remedies available to you. These rights are important to keep in mind when dealing with insurance. Some of these rights include:
- Receiving confirmation from your insurance within seven days that your claim has been submitted
- Receiving your undisputed settlement within 60 days
- You may also be eligible to participate in mediation to resolve a disputed claim
Along with your rights against insurance companies, there are some common issues homeowners find when filing a claim. Some of the common challenges most homeowners have faced if they’ve dealt with a hurricane claim are as follows:
- Underpayment of claims: It’s common for insurers to lowball settlement offers, which can leave you with significant costs that you will have to pay out of your own pocket.
- Delayed claims processing: Delays that can be avoided on your end will significantly lengthen the time it takes to repair your property and receive insurance money.
- Denial of claims: Insurers may try to deny your claim altogether, claiming not enough documentation or policy exclusions.
Steps To Take After A Hurricane
Taking these steps could save you time and help ensure you receive the maximum compensation available for you after you’ve sustained damage. After the storm has passed, here’s what you should do:
- Check for damage. Walk around your home and look for structural damage, loose power lines, or gas leaks.
- Next, take as many photos and videos of the damage as possible. The more documentation you gather, the better.
- You can make some temporary repairs if possible. However, if you choose to do this, remember to document the process and save all receipts, as your insurance may cover the cost.
- Contact your insurance to make a claim. Do this as soon as possible. Hurricane damage claims must be brought within one year of the damage in Florida. This year is calculated from the day the hurricane made landfall. However, just because you have a year doesn’t mean you should wait a year.
Taking these first few steps is the best way to be efficient and prepare for your insurance claim. If you’re prepared, you won’t have to shuffle things or prolong the process unnecessarily.
Representing Florida Property Owners in Hurricane Damage Claims
Navigating hurricane damage can be worse than the hurricane itself. The fine print and caveats in insurance policies can be incredibly frustrating. That’s where the Tomlinson Law Group comes in.
We will provide you with personalized support and representation throughout the process, no matter how long it takes. Our team is committed to advocating fiercely for you and your family. Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can serve you.