Florida homeowners sometimes suffer hail damage to their property due to the significant storms that occur in the state. Hail damage can be difficult to spot, and if people do not immediately identify it, they may later lose their ability to file a claim for it. If hail damage is suspected, it is thus important for homeowners to act quickly to get an inspection completed by a contractor.
According to the National Storm Damage Center, the most common residential structure damaged by hail is the roof. When shingles are damaged, water may later seep in, causing further significant damage to other parts of the home. Damage to asphalt shingles appear as dark spots where the granules have been struck away by the hail. There may also be holes in asphalt shingles, torn ones or ones that are simply missing.
Other shingle types, including tile, wood, slate and metal, may also be damaged by hail. Generally, if any cracks or missing shingles are spotted, a claim should be filed. In addition to roof damage, people should inspect their siding for signs of wind-driven hail damage. Damages may include dented or cracked siding or holes in the siding. Windows that are damaged by hail are often easily apparent. People should also check exterior appliances, such as their heating and air conditioning units, for denting and other problems.
Insurance companies have strict deadlines for reporting hail and other damage from catastrophic storms. Following a major storm, it is in a homeowner’s best interest to carefully inspect their property for signs of damages. If damage is suspected, they should then seek a contractor to inspect the property and to provide an estimate prior to filing a claim with their homeowner’s insurance. People may want to get the help of an attorney if the insurance company denies their claim or if they believe the offered settlement is too low.
Has Your Home Insurance Company Denied Or Undervalued Your Property Damage Claim In Florida?
If your insurance company is dragging their feet regarding your property damage claim you should speak with an experienced insurance claim lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Florida law office directly at 800.451.6786 to schedule your free consultation. We help Florida residents just like you fight the big insurance companies who fail to abide by their own policies. Remember, we work on a contingent basis, meaning you don't pay us anything until we win your case.
