Blog
Natural disasters are becoming more intense and frequent, leading to higher claim amounts and more significant losses for homeowners. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average cost per claim has risen substantially over the years.
Unfortunately, filing a homeowner insurance claim in Louisiana can sometimes be complicated and frustrating, especially if your insurance provider is hesitant to pay out what you’re owed. The following are some of the most common homeowners insurance claims that our Louisiana home insurance claim attorneys at The Morgan Law Group can assist you in getting the compensation you deserve.
1. Theft
A break-in can be emotionally distressing, as well as financially devastating if your valuable belongings are stolen or damaged. Homeowners insurance policies typically cover stolen items and damage caused during a break-in, but challenges often arise when insurance companies undervalue the property lost or contest the coverage limits.
2. Hail Damage
Hail is another frequent cause of damage for Louisiana homeowners. Hailstorms can happen unexpectedly, leading to significant damage to roofs, windows, and other parts of your property.
Unfortunately, not all hail damage is immediately visible, and minor damage left unchecked can worsen over time. Immediate inspections by roofing professionals and documentation through photos and reports are key to proving the full extent of the damage and maximizing your compensation.
3. Water Damage
Not all types of water damage are covered by standard homeowners insurance. Damage caused by a burst pipe, leaking appliance, or sudden water discharge is often covered, whereas flooding from external sources may require separate flood insurance.
Insurance companies can sometimes try to attribute water damage to long-term issues like poor maintenance to avoid payouts. To protect your insurance claim, you need to be specific about the cause of the water damage and keep records of any necessary maintenance you performed.
4. Lightning Damage
Lightning is a powerful force that can damage your home in multiple ways, including electrical systems, appliances, and even causing fires. In Louisiana, lightning strikes are not uncommon, and they often lead to high-value claims.
When filing a lightning damage claim, the key is to document all damages thoroughly. Some electrical damages may not be immediately evident, which means it’s critical to hire a professional to inspect wiring and appliances to avoid missed claim opportunities.
5. Fire Damage
The combination of dry conditions and lightning during certain seasons makes fire claims a common occurrence in Louisiana. Insurance policies generally cover fire damage, including damage from smoke and subsequent water damage from firefighting efforts. However, navigating the process of itemizing losses and dealing with partial damages can be overwhelming, which is why legal guidance can help maximize the recovery for property and personal belongings.
6. Hurricane Damage
Hurricane damage in Louisiana can be extensive, involving wind damage, flooding, and destruction of your property’s structural integrity. While homeowners insurance may cover wind damage, flood damage often requires separate policies.
Insurance companies might try to minimize payouts by categorizing damage under exclusions or blaming pre-existing conditions. For hurricane damage claims, an experienced hurricane insurance attorney can help prove the true scope of your losses, ensuring you receive fair compensation.
7. Flood Damage
Flooding is a significant risk for Louisiana homeowners, particularly in low-lying areas. Flood damage requires a separate flood insurance policy because standard homeowners insurance policies often exclude it.
Flood insurance claims can be complicated because of the pre-existing conditions or the extent of the flood damage. Proper documentation, including photos and detailed accounts of when and how the flooding occurred, is vital for strengthening your claim.
8. Liability Claims
Liability claims occur when someone gets injured on your property, and you are found to be at fault. Homeowners insurance usually provides liability coverage for these incidents, but disputes can arise regarding the extent of your liability or the damages being claimed by the injured party. A strong case, guided by an insurance claim attorney, is crucial to defend against an unreasonable claim or ensure that your insurance provides the coverage promised.
9. Medical Payments
Homeowners insurance policies often include coverage for medical payments when someone gets injured on your property, even if you are not at fault. This type of coverage is designed to handle minor injuries without the need for a lawsuit.
Filing a medical payments claim requires clear documentation of the injury and any medical treatments provided. If your insurance company is reluctant to pay or delays your claim, working with an attorney can help expedite the process.
10. All Other Property Damage
All other types of property damage, such as from falling objects or vandalism, also come under homeowners insurance claims. Each type of homeowner insurance claim may have its nuances and exclusions that the insurance company may attempt to leverage to avoid a payout. It is essential to understand your policy thoroughly and seek legal assistance if you believe your claim is being handled unfairly.
How to Maximize Your Home Insurance Claim Settlement
Maximizing your homeowners insurance claim requires a proactive approach.
- Start by reading and understanding your policy. It’s crucial to know what is covered, any exclusions, and how much coverage you can expect.
- Always document damage thoroughly with photographs, videos, and professional assessments, and keep a detailed record of all correspondence with your insurance company.
- If your insurance company is being uncooperative or undervaluing your claim, consider hiring a Louisiana home insurance attorney. They can assist by negotiating on your behalf and ensuring that your rights are protected.
As one of the most expensive states for home insurance, dealing with homeowners insurance claims in Louisiana can be overwhelming. Legal assistance from an experienced homeowner insurance lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
The Morgan Law Group is here to help you navigate the homeowner insurance claims process, defend against bad faith practices by insurance companies, and ensure that you get the compensation you are entitled to. Call us today at (504) 499-5613 or complete our online form and have your free consultation.
