Did a Storm Damage Your Home? What To Do Next

Tennessee is no stranger to severe weather events. From powerful thunderstorms and hail to tornadoes and even the occasional hurricane remnants, storms can wreak havoc on homes throughout the state. If your home suffered storm damage, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. The good news is, that you do not need to handle this alone.

This article will guide you through the essential actions to take after a storm damages your Tennessee home. We will cover understanding your rights as a homeowner, navigating the insurance claims process, and knowing when to seek legal help from an experienced Tennessee storm damage claims attorney at The Morgan Law Group.

Storms Damaging Homes in Tennessee

Storms in Tennessee can cause a wide range of damage to your home, including:

1. Roof Damage – Missing shingles, leaks caused by wind or hail, and holes from fallen branches.
2. Window Damage – Broken or cracked glass, damaged frames.
3. Structural Damage – Foundation issues, damage to walls or framing caused by extreme winds.
4. Water Damage – Flooding, and leaks can lead to mold, rot, and other issues.
5. Fallen Trees and Debris – Damage to fences, landscaping, and even your home.

Storms are unpredictable, but their potential impact does not have to be. If you have concerns about your home’s vulnerability to storm damage, do not hesitate to take preventative measures.

What to Do After a Storm Damaged Your Home

The aftermath of a storm can be chaotic and stressful. Prioritize these steps to protect yourself and start the process of recovery:

1. Ensure Safety – Your well-being and that of your family come first. Only re-enter your home if it is been deemed safe by authorities or a qualified inspector.
2. Document the Damage – Thorough documentation is key to a successful insurance claim. Take photos and videos of all damage, both inside and outside your home. Write detailed notes including dates, times, and descriptions of how the damage occurred.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company – File your claim as soon as possible. Provide your policy information and a thorough description of the damage. Prepare questions in advance!
4. Mitigate Further Damage – It is your responsibility to minimize additional losses where possible. Make reasonable emergency repairs, such as covering a damaged roof with a tarp. Insurance companies should reimburse you for these expenses.
5. Keep Detailed Records – Organize and save everything! This includes receipts for repairs, additional living expenses, communication with your insurer, and even estimates for future work.

These immediate actions will lay a strong foundation for your insurance claim process.  Remember, the burden of proof lies with you, the homeowner. By taking detailed notes, preserving evidence of damage, and keeping meticulous records, you increase the chances of receiving the full compensation you are entitled to under your insurance policy.

Understanding Your Rights as a Tennessee Homeowner

As a homeowner in Tennessee, you have certain rights when it comes to storm damage insurance claims. Here is what you need to know:

1. Your Insurance Policy Is a Contract – Read your policy carefully to understand what types of storm damage are covered and any exclusions that might apply. Take the time to document all your losses promptly and thoroughly.
2. You Have a Right to Fair Treatment – Insurance companies must act in good faith, meaning they cannot unreasonably deny, delay, or undervalue your storm damage insurance claim. Tennessee law protects homeowners from unfair practices by insurance providers.
3. You Can Dispute a Claim Decision – If you disagree with the insurance company’s assessment of the damage or the settlement offer, you have options. Consider getting an independent estimate, and filing a formal complaint with the help of Tennessee storm damage insurance attorneys.

By understanding your insurance policy, documenting your losses well, and knowing that you have legal recourse if needed, you empower yourself. Insurance companies work for you, and they are obligated to fulfill the terms of your contract.

When to Consider Seeking an Insurance Claims Lawyer in Nashville, TN

While you can navigate the storm damage claims process alone, there are several situations where seeking legal counsel is highly advisable. Consider contacting a Tennessee storm damage insurance attorney if you experience:

1. Disputes Over What Your Policy Covers – Insurance policies are complex. If you and the insurer disagree on the interpretation of your coverage or exclusions, a Tennessee storm damage claims attorney can provide much-needed clarity.
2. Significant Delays in Processing Your Claim – Insurance companies have deadlines to abide by, and unreasonable delays could be a sign of bad faith practices. An attorney knows how to hold insurers accountable.
3. Unsatisfactory Settlement Offers – Do not accept a lowball offer without understanding your options. An attorney can assess the full value of your claim and fight for fair compensation.
4. Suspected Bad Faith Practices by Your Insurer – If you feel your claim is being mishandled, denied, or delayed without good reason, an attorney can advocate on your behalf and investigate potential bad faith tactics by the insurance company.

An experienced insurance claims lawyer in Nashville, TN can help you:

1. Evaluate Your Claim – Get an objective assessment of your damages and the coverage your policy provides.
2. Protect Your Rights – An attorney will ensure the insurance company adheres to its legal obligations and does not try to take advantage.
3. Negotiate With the Insurance Company – Attorneys are skilled negotiators who can push for a settlement that truly reflects your losses.
4. Fight for the Full Compensation

If negotiations fail, your lawyer can be ready to take the case to court to defend your interests.

Do not underestimate the complex challenges presented by insurance claim disputes. An experienced Tennessee storm damage claims attorney acts as your powerful ally, helping level the playing field against large insurance companies.

Contact The Morgan Law Group for Legal Help

Do not let an insurance company take advantage in the aftermath of a storm.  Call The Morgan Law Group for a free consultation. Our skilled Tennessee storm damage claims attorney is here to help you get the compensation you need to rebuild and move forward.