Hurricane Damage Claims

Hurricane Damage Claims

The reality of experiencing a hurricane is all too common. When a hurricane strikes, it can bring devastating damage to properties, causing significant financial burdens. When this unfortunate situation occurs, filing an Orlando hurricane damage claim becomes an essential step toward recovery. Yet, dealing with insurance companies to ensure a fair settlement can often prove to be a complicated and frustrating process. That’s when The Morgan Law Group steps in – your trusted Orlando hurricane damage claim law firm.

How to Know if You Have a Hurricane Damage Claim in Orlando, FL

After a hurricane, the first step is assessing your property for damage. Signs of hurricane damage can vary widely, from apparent destruction such as a demolished roof or shattered windows to less visible but equally destructive issues like water intrusion or mold growth. If you’ve incurred property damage after a hurricane, you likely have a valid hurricane damage claim.

However, just because you’ve experienced property damage doesn’t mean that your insurance company will automatically grant you a fair settlement. It’s crucial to document every detail of the damage extensively, including photographs, videos, and comprehensive lists of affected personal belongings. You should also keep all receipts related to temporary repairs or relocation expenses.

What is Covered in an Orlando Hurricane Damage Claim?

A hurricane damage claim typically covers losses caused by a hurricane or tropical storm, as specified in your homeowner’s insurance policy. However, it’s important to note that not all types of damage are covered by a standard policy. Here are the typical categories of coverage:

• Wind Damage
  Wind damage is typically covered by a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. This includes damages such as torn-off shingles, broken windows, or any structural damage caused by high winds.
• Water Damage from Rain
  Water damage caused by rain entering through a wind-damaged area (such as a broken window or damaged roof) is usually covered. However, if the home was not maintained properly and the damage occurred due to pre-existing leaks, the claim might be denied.
• Personal Property
  Personal property damaged or destroyed by a hurricane, such as furniture or electronics, is typically covered. It’s important to have an updated inventory of your belongings to support your claim.
• Additional Living Expenses
  If your home becomes uninhabitable due to hurricane damage, your insurance policy may cover additional living expenses (ALE). This could include hotel bills, meals, and other expenses you incur while your home is being repaired.

However, it’s crucial to be aware of what is not typically covered. Damage caused by flooding, including storm surges from a hurricane, is generally not covered under a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. For this type of coverage, homeowners would need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy.

Hurricane Damage Claims Process in Orlando

The process of filing a hurricane damage claim, or anywhere for that matter, can seem daunting, especially when you’re dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:

• Document the Damage
  Start by documenting all the damage to your property. This documentation can include photographs, videos, and a detailed list of all the damaged items. This serves as critical evidence when filing your claim and helps you remember all the details when discussing with your insurance adjuster.
• Report the Damage
  Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. It’s important to note that many insurance policies require timely reporting, so it’s in your best interest to not delay this step.
• Mitigate Further Damage
  If possible, try to mitigate further damage to your property by covering broken windows, holes in the roof, or any other structural damage that could allow water to enter and cause additional damage. However, do not make any permanent repairs until an insurance adjuster has assessed the damage.
• Prepare the Proof of Loss
  Your insurance company will ask you to submit a “proof of loss” form. This form details the extent and value of your loss, supported by the documentation you’ve collected. You may need to include repair estimates from professionals.
• Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
  Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. They’ll compare their assessment with the proof of loss you’ve submitted. Remember, the adjuster works for the insurance company, so they might undervalue the claim to save the company money.
• Settlement
  Once the adjuster submits their report, the insurance company will propose a settlement. You have the right to negotiate this if you believe it does not accurately reflect your loss.

Given the complexities of this process, many homeowners choose to seek professional help. A hurricane damage claim attorney can guide you through each step of the process.

Why You Need an Orlando Hurricane Damage Claim Attorney

Given the complexities involved in dealing with insurance companies, seeking the help of a hurricane damage claim attorney can make a significant difference in your claim’s outcome. At The Morgan Law Group, our experienced team of attorneys specializes in hurricane damage claims. We are deeply familiar with the tactics that insurance companies use to devalue or deny claims and can counteract these with skilled negotiation and, if necessary, litigation.

Having a hurricane damage claim lawyer by your side will ensure your claim is thoroughly prepared and convincingly presented, significantly increasing the chances of a fair settlement. We take the burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the intricate legal and insurance issues.

Choosing to work with The Morgan Law Group for your Orlando hurricane damage claim means choosing a dedicated, professional team that will tirelessly advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you need to rebuild and recover.

Don’t let a hurricane damage claim add to the stress and confusion in the aftermath of a storm. Reach out to The Morgan Law Group, your reliable hurricane damage claim law firm. Together, we’ll weather the storm.