Hurricane Ian was the most significant storm to hit Florida in 2022. If your home, condominium, or business property has been damaged by a storm, hurricane, tornado, or other wind events. In that case, it is essential to act quickly to protect your property and to preserve your ability to pursue a property insurance or water damage claim to repair this damage. If you do not take immediate action, your property may incur additional damage from exposure to the elements because of the initial storm damage.

The expert insurance claim attorneys at Williams Law, P.A., understand how to file Florida insurance claims successfully and effectively represent our client’s interests when insurers refuse to pay valid claims. We focus almost exclusively on helping clients throughout Florida with insurance claims from the start of a claim through trial, if necessary.

Although you should always consult with an insurance claim professional when placing a significant property damage claim, the following insurance claim tips will help you through the claim process.

Deadline for Filing a Flood Damage Lawsuit

Depending upon the language of your flood policy, in most instances, you have just one year from the date of your insurance company’s settlement offer or denial letter to file a flood damage lawsuit.

Deadline for Filing a Property Damage Lawsuit

Depending upon the language of your homeowners or a commercial insurance policy, in most instances, you have just two years from the date of your insurance company’s settlement offer or denial letter to file a lawsuit.

Contact Your Property Insurance Company as Soon as Possible

Most property insurance policies mandate that you notify the insurance carrier “immediately” after the damage occurs. Suppose you wait too long to contact the insurance company. In that case, the carrier may claim that it was “prejudiced” by your “delay” in notifying the carrier of your claim and may attempt to avoid covering it.

Always Get Everything in Writing

It is essential always to document all communications to avoid any conflicts or misunderstandings down the road.

Take Pictures

These pictures will be essential to show the condition of your property after the storm and to document the damage. It is also crucial to document any damage to personal property (furniture, clothing, electronics) so that you can seek adequate reimbursement for the loss of such items.

Choose Your Repair Company Carefully

Always hire the best and most qualified repair contractor, not necessarily the cheapest. Remember that you have the right to pick your repair contractor, even though many insurance companies will try to steer you toward their preferred vendors to minimize costs. You may want to get estimates from several vendors to compare and ensure your property is repaired correctly.

Always Request a Copy of the Repair Estimate Prepared by the Insurance Company

Make sure to review the estimate for any missed repair items. You may need to retain the assistance of a Florida hurricane damage attorney, public adjuster, or another insurance claim professional to evaluate the scope and pricing of the insurance company’s estimate.

Review Proof of Loss and Other Documents Carefully

The insurance adjuster will often request that you sign a Proof of Loss or similar document before paying you for your claim. You must review this document carefully because, through the execution of this Proof of Loss, you agree to the scope, pricing, and method of repair outlined in the Proof of Loss. If you haven’t already done so, it may be crucial to speak with a Florida insurance claim professional who can explain your rights and duties relating to the Sworn Proof of Loss and the effect that signing the Proof of Loss could have upon your claim.

Make Sure the Insurance Company approves Vendor Contracts.

Before signing any vendor contract – whether for cleanup, repair, restoration, or otherwise – ensure the insurance company has approved the contract. Although you would always have recourse against your insurance company for its refusal to pay for your repairs, it would be better to know the insurance company’s position before you incur the cost of the repairs.

Know What Your Policy Covers

Be aware that your insurance policy provides coverage beyond just the repair of the damage to your home. For instance, if the damage or repair causes you to be out of your home or business for some time, your policy most likely provides coverage for Alternative Living Expenses or ALE. This Alternative Living Expense coverage will reimburse the costs incurred to live elsewhere while the damage to your property is being repaired.

Has Your Home Insurance Company Denied or Undervalued Your Property Damage Claim in Florida?

If your insurance company is dragging its 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 at 800.451.6786 to schedule your free consultation. We help Florida residents like you fight the big insurance companies who fail to abide by their policies. Remember, we work on a contingent basis, meaning you don't pay us anything until we win your case. 

K.C. Williams III
Managing Partner who has spent his entire career representing Florida insurance and personal injury claims.
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