Hurricane Insurance Claims in Florida: Protecting Your Rights
Hurricane season in Florida can be a stressful and uncertain time for homeowners. These natural disasters can cause severe damage to properties, leaving families and businesses struggling to recover. That's why many residents invest in insurance to ensure that they can cover the cost of repairs and severe damage. However, even those who pay their premiums every month could find themselves in a difficult situation if their insurer refuses to pay a claim due to bad faith or a minor technicality. In these circumstances, it is crucial to seek the help of an experienced Florida hurricane insurance claims lawyer to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover?
Typically, Florida homeowner’s insurance policies cover wind damage, but not flooding. There is also a deductible for damage caused by hurricanes, which must be met before the insurer will start paying for any damage. It is essential for homeowners to understand exactly what their policy covers when they file a claim.
Insurers may argue that damage resulting from a hurricane was caused not by wind, but by flooding, which is not covered by homeowner's insurance. This can make it challenging for homeowners to receive compensation for all the damage done to their homes.
Common Types of Hurricane Damage
Hurricane season in Florida is accompanied by heavy rains and strong winds that can leave roofs damaged, trees uprooted, and power lines torn down. The extent of the damage sustained by a home will largely depend on the strength of the hurricane’s wind speed, which is calculated using the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale. Hurricanes are given a category number ranging from one to five, with Category 5 storms being the most severe and causing roof failure, wall collapse, and widespread damage to trees and power lines. Aside from dangerously strong winds, hurricanes are also known for causing water damage through heavy rains that can crack building foundations.
What to do After a Hurricane
If you have experienced damage to your home during a hurricane, it is important to take the following steps:
Cover up damaged property with a tarp to prevent further water intrusion;
Photographing all damage, including damage to the roof, walls, yard, and interior of the building, as well as personal items;
Making an inventory of all damaged property to accompany the photographs; and
Filing an insurance claim as quickly as possible.
Failing to take these steps can result in your insurer denying your claim or delaying a decision.
Insurer Tactics to Avoid Paying Claims
Unfortunately, some insurance companies may use various tactics to avoid paying claims, such as making false statements about coverage, offering undervalued estimates, requiring a release of supplemental claims as a condition of payment or settlement, and more. Homeowners who encounter any of these issues when dealing with their insurer should consider speaking with an insurance claims lawyer who can help protect their interests.
The Importance of Hiring a Dedicated Hurricane Insurance Claims Lawyer
The process of filing a hurricane insurance claim can be complex, and insurance companies may use various tactics to avoid paying claims. That's why it is crucial to seek the help of a dedicated and experienced Florida hurricane insurance claims lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve. An insurance claims lawyer can help you understand your policy, gather evidence, and negotiate with your insurer to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
Contact The Sacks Law Group, PLLC Today
In conclusion, the aftermath of a Florida hurricane can be a difficult and stressful time for homeowners and business owners. The last thing you need during this time is to fight with your insurance company over a denied or undervalued claim. That's why it's crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced Florida hurricane insurance claims lawyer by your side. The Sacks Law Group, PLLC has a team of dedicated attorneys who specialize in representing clients in disputes with their insurance companies. We understand the ins and outs of the insurance claims process and will fight tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Don't let your insurance company take advantage of you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you get back on your feet.