Hurricanes and Homeowners Insurance: What You Need to Know

June 1 marks the start of the notorious stretch of the year known as hurricane season, and to Floridians, it’s difficult to know what to expect. One year, you could skate by without a major storm, but the next, you could sustain damage from a Category Five hurricane. This is why many Florida residents invest in insurance in the event they’re faced with damage or destruction.

But unfortunately, insurance companies sometimes delay or deny legitimate claims. This can leave homeowners and their families feeling lost, frustrated, uncertain, and financially insecure. When this occurs, it’s important to seek the help of an experienced attorney who has knowledge and background in insurance claims. 

Flood insurance vs. homeowners insurance

Despite the fact that there isn’t insurance specifically for hurricanes, most homeowners insurance covers wind damage. However, it’s necessary to note that this insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is separate from home insurance, so if you live in Florida, it’s a good idea to invest in flood insurance in addition to standard homeowners coverage. 

Before hurricane season begins, it’s absolutely essential that you thoroughly review your insurance policy and know exactly what you’re covered for in the event of a storm. 

Filing a claim with your insurance company

Typically, homeowners will file a claim with their insurance company immediately after sustaining damage. If you do not file the claim immediately, some insurance policies allow for claims to be filed up to three years after the incident occurred. After reporting the claim, an insurance adjuster will inspect the damage that is cited in the claim. Homeowners are also strongly encouraged to create a list of any items that were damaged or destroyed due to the storm, wind, or rain, as well as document everything with photos. 

Delayed, partial or denied claims

Even when homeowners act fast, document everything, and follow all the proper steps in filing a claim, sometimes insurance companies delay or deny them. Some common ways that companies do this are citing obscure lines in policy, insisting your specific policy doesn’t cover the damage, or only providing partial payments. Insurance companies may also delay or slow the processing or payment of your claim.

Pursue action with an experienced insurance attorney

Going up against an insurance company is daunting and can take up a tremendous amount of your time and energy. Add this on top of the stress of experiencing damage to your home, and it can be unbearable. You deserve full and fair compensation for your home, yourself, and your family, but you shouldn’t pursue action alone. That’s why it’s critical to hire an attorney who has expertise and knowledge in the world of insurance claims. 

Contact Brooke Boltz today

Your home is the center of your life, and seeing it sustain damage is incredibly troubling, sad, and devastating. This is only made worse when your insurance company fails to cover the damage, and you’re left facing financial woes. Contact Brooke Boltz today if you’re facing a delayed or denied claim. Brooke will fight passionately for you to ensure you receive your compensation.