While the Cape Coral Fire Department attempts to ensure all residents are prepared for each storm that approaches, hurricanes happen and damage can be catastrophic. If your home or property was damaged or destroyed during a catastrophic hurricane, and your insurance company is denying your claim, or offering you insufficient compensation, it may be time to hire a hurricane property claim lawyer in Cape Coral.
While the federal government, through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), may offer some assistance to homeowners after presidentially-declared disasters such as Hurricane Michael or Hurricane Irma, the benefits are limited.
Most homeowners look to their property insurance or windstorm policies to protect them in the event of a hurricane. But the sad reality is, homeowners are often unaware of what their insurance truly covers, or discover their insurance company may attempt to underpay the full value of the claim.
The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine can help you understand the specifics of your insurance contract, and may be able to increase the financial compensation you receive. Call us for a free case evaluation.
The Types of Damage a Hurricane Can Cause
Most people tend to think of high winds as the most significant cause of damage from a hurricane, but storm surge, flooding, and water are also significant hazards.
Nonetheless, hurricanes are capable of causing catastrophic home or property damage, such as:
- Ripping off roofs, tiles, or chimneys.
- Staining, mold, or flooding of walls and floor coverings.
- Loss or destruction of personal property including clothing, household items or personal electronics.
- Destroying landscaping, fences, or outdoor pools.
It is only through careful review of your insurance policy that you can determine precisely what your insurance will cover after a hurricane. But even then, some insurance companies will attempt to delay or deny the processing of your claim. A personal injury attorney in Cape Coral may be able to assist you in getting the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Hurricane Hits
No doubt you will have many things on your mind in the aftermath of a hurricane. First and foremost will be the safety of your family, loved ones, and pets. But as soon as you can, you should take certain steps that can help with the claims process.
Document Your Losses
Smartphone technology makes it easy to make a record of damage and destruction. After the storm, take pictures or short videos of your home and damaged property before you start cleaning up. It also helps to make a list of everything you have lost.
Contact Your Insurance Company
While you do not always need to file a claim immediately, you can let your insurance company know you will be filing so they can anticipate a claim. In the aftermath of a widespread storm, there may be delays in processing if many people are filing claims at the same time. Giving your insurance company a heads up may help speed your processing.
Secure Your Home
When it is safe to do so, secure your home and property to prevent further damage or theft. Cover the roof with tarps and board up windows or doors.
Collect All Your Receipts
If you have expenditures after the storm such as meals, temporary lodging, or gas, make sure you retain all of the receipts. Your insurance may cover the cost of these expenses if they were a consequence of hurricane damage.
Other Evidence to Support Your Claim
Your insurance company will require complete documentation of your losses and any expenses you incurred after the storm. While evidence you collect is no guarantee your insurance company will grant you adequate compensation, not having it will almost certainly delay your claims processing.
It may be difficult to prove the losses you suffered were a direct result of a hurricane, but, you will help your case if you can provide:
- A complete copy of your insurance policies.
- A detailed list of missing or damaged items, along with photos or video (before and after, if possible).
- Documentation of your expenses following the storm including tarps or building supplies, meals, clothing or temporary housing.
The more information you can collect, the better. Anything that supports your claim will be helpful in maximizing your compensation.
Reasons the Insurance Company May Deny Your Claim
Despite all your best efforts to pay your premiums on time and collect all the information to document your claim, you still may not be able to secure the proper level of compensation for your damages due to a hurricane.
You may want to contact a hurricane property claim attorney if your insurance company appears to be trying any of these tactics:
- Delaying your claim for no apparent reason.
- Trying to allege your coverage has lapsed.
- Denying your claim outright without a reasonable explanation.
- Stating that your existing insurance policy does not cover your specific losses.
- Offering a settlement that is clearly too low for the extent of your damages.
If your insurance company is putting up seemingly insurmountable obstacles, you do not have to stand alone. A property claim lawyer can fight on your behalf to obtain the full compensation you need to rebuild your life and home.
What to Expect from a Hurricane Property Claim Lawyer in Cape Coral
If you are currently in dispute with an insurance company over your claim for losses suffered during a hurricane, you most likely will be feeling stressed and overwhelmed — understandably so.
The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine can help make your claims process easier and more manageable and will work alongside you to maximize your compensation.
We begin with a free case evaluation during which we can help you understand your rights and legal options. We will answer any questions you have and give you guidance regarding your best course of action.
During every step, we can assist with all aspects of your case, including communicating directly with your insurance company (so you do not have to) and even litigation, if that becomes necessary.
If your insurance company is delaying, denying, or refusing your claim for compensation as a result of a hurricane, contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine. Call 1-800-747-3733 for your free case evaluation today and learn how we can help.
We Can Help.
