Insurance companies can be quite rigid when they insist that you follow proper procedures, but they often seem to disappear or fail to respond when you need answers. We can help.
To get started, here are some tips to get your losses covered after Hurricane Ian.
Document Your Damage
To get a full recovery, you will need proof of your losses. Documenting damage after a hurricane loss is important for several reasons. First, it can help you establish the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs. Take pictures of all aspects of the damage, including close-up shots and images that give perspective. Mark high water levels. Document not only the damage to your home or business but also any vehicles covered by insurance, including recreational vehicles. Make notes about aspects of the damage that aren’t apparent from photos, such as the smell of mold.
Then, if possible, try to locate photos that show the conditions before the storm. Try to make an inventory of all your losses. This can be a heartbreaking ordeal, but the more thoroughly you can document your losses, the better chance you have of obtaining money to replace what you’ve lost.
Notify the Insurance Companies
If you haven’t already notified your insurance companies, don’t delay any longer. It is not necessary to have a detailed list of property damage or estimates from contractors. Your policy probably requires you to provide prompt notice after a loss, and if you don’t follow their rules, they can use that as justification to deny coverage. They might also allege that your late notification did not allow them to examine the damage while it was “fresh” and claim that your late reporting caused them prejudice in the investigation of your claim.
Don’t forget that if you suffered damage from both wind and flooding, these may be covered under different policies. Be sure to report the damage to both your flood insurance company and homeowner’s insurance company. Our attorneys at EC Law Counsel can report the appropriate claims on your behalf and navigate you through the insurance claim process to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Our experienced lawyers at EC Law Counsel will stand on your side to ensure that you receive the maximum settlement for your Hurricane Ian Claim.
Review Insurance Policy Details
Insurance issues are largely governed by a contract, which is the insurance policy with the company. It is important to read through your policy to determine if there are steps you need to take to have your losses covered. For example, you might be required to separate and discard damaged property to avoid contamination. You might also be required to cover damaged areas with a tarp to prevent additional damage.
Your policy details should also specify what articles or types of damage are excluded under your policy. Often policies will not provide reimbursement for repairs made before an adjuster documents the damage, so check the details before hiring anyone. Our attorneys at EC Law Counsel can review your insurance policy hurricane coverage and help you understand the specific language of your insurance policy, including any exclusions or limitations, and can help you determine what types of damage are covered. We can also guide you in understanding the details of your policy such as the coverage limits, deductibles, and additional endorsements that may affect your claim.
Turn to an Experienced Hurricane Damage Attorney for Help
Insurance companies are always looking for ways to keep costs down, and after a catastrophic storm like Hurricane Ian, they may be particularly hard to deal with.
That’s where we come in. At EC Law Counsel, we’ve worked on all sides of the industry, and we know how to help homeowners and business owners get prompt fair coverage and maximum recovery of their losses. If you are experiencing a delayed, denied, or underpaid claim, call us for a free consultation to learn how we could assist you, contact us now.