Tropical Storm Damage Claims

Tropical Storm Damage Claims

Tropical storms can cause extensive damage in Naples. In fact, Tropical Storm Fay made landfall in the city in 2008, resulting in widespread flooding and damage. Although these storms might not be as strong as hurricanes, they can still be destructive. If your Naples home is damaged in a tropical storm, filing an insurance claim can help you receive a settlement to offset the cost of repairs and replacements. However, this is a complicated process that requires the right timing. At The Morgan Law Group, our property insurance lawyers can help you with the tropical storm claim process from start to finish.

What to Know About Filing a Tropical Storm Damage Claim in Naples

Knowing what to expect and how to go about filing a damage claim for tropical storms can help you with this process. Keep in mind that under Florida law, you only have a certain window of time to file this claim. Here’s what you should know about tropical storm damage claims in the Naples area.

Document Damage With Photos and Videos

Policyholders have a burden of proof with tropical storm damage claims. In other words, you will be responsible for providing evidence of damage to your home, including how extensive it is and how it was caused. Take videos and photos inside your home and outside it as proof of wind and water damage from a tropical storm. Keep in mind that this includes damaged personal items, along with damage to walls and other structures.

Reach Out to Your Insurance Company

Florida law only gives you a limited amount of time to file a claim following hurricane or tropical storm damage. Otherwise, you might have your claim denied. Get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Let your insurer know what happened and when it occurred, so they can send you forms to fill out.

Gather Important Paperwork

Keep a record of any communications you have with your insurer, including phone calls and emails. Gather invoices and receipts for all costs and expenses related to tropical storm damage. For example, this might include expenses for temporary relocation if your home has severe damage. You might also need invoices and paperwork for any work you have done on your home.

Protect Your Home from Additional Damage

Don’t let water or wind lead to more extensive damage. Take the necessary steps to keep your home safe from additional damage, such as boarding up cracked or broken windows. Keep all paperwork for this work with your other documents, and include it when you file your claim.

Set Up Professional Assessments of Property Damage

Having engineers or other professionals assess tropical storm damage can provide more support for your insurance claim. Get written estimates from these experts, along with detailed information on the extent and severity of property damage.

Benefits of Working With an Insurance Claim Lawyer in Naples

Going through the entire process of filing a property insurance claim after a tropical storm can be stressful and confusing. A local home insurance claim attorney can make this experience much easier, while ensuring that you have the best chance at receiving a fair settlement. These are a few of the top reasons to consider hiring an insurance lawyer if your home has wind or water damage.

In-Depth Knowledge of Insurance Laws

Attorneys who specialize in property insurance know the ins and outs of local and state insurance laws. They can help you get through the claims process while following all relevant laws and regulations. For example, you need to file a claim within a certain amount of time following a tropical storm. An attorney can make sure you do this, so that your claim has a lower risk of denial.

Expert Guidance During the Claims Process

Filing a successful property damage claim for a tropical storm involves following a lot of steps. You need to properly fill out forms, include all required documentation, and review your settlement offer. An insurance attorney can walk you through this and help you navigate the complexities of home insurance claims.

Help with Negotiations or Litigation

Having a claim denied means you have the right to dispute it. In some cases, this might involve litigation. A property insurance lawyer can handle this dispute or negotiate with your insurance company if they are undervaluing your claim.

Knowing whether or not you’re receiving a fair settlement from your homeowners insurance company can be difficult. Making sure you submit all forms and documentation correctly can also be a challenge. The experts at The Morgan Law Group are here to assist you with filing a tropical storm damage claim in Naples. To set up a free consultation with an experienced property insurance lawyer, please contact us.