Tropical Storm Damage Claims

Tropical Storm Damage Claims

Tampa, FL is a beautiful place to live, offering great beaches, food, and more. Much of the year provides great weather, too. However, Tampa is also one of the most vulnerable cities to some severe tropical storms that can tear apart life as you know it. Our team at The Morgan Law Group understands tropical storm damage and the devastation it creates. And we are dedicated to helping our community get proper compensation when tropical storm damage occurs. Below, we’ll discuss tips to ensure a more successful claim process and the importance of working with a Tampa insurance claim lawyer.

Steps to Prepare for Tropical Weather in Tampa

1. Understand Your Insurance Coverage for Tropical Storm Damage: Home insurance can make getting back to life easier, but only if you have the proper coverage for tropical storm damage. Regularly review your policy to ensure everything is up-to-date. Take a good look at what is covered and what is not in the event of a tropical storm. As coverage can sometimes be confusing, and you don’t want anything to fall through the cracks, having an insurance claim lawyer review your policy can be a wise idea. If there are any gaps, consider purchasing additional coverage.
2. Prepare Your Family: Tropical storms can create anxiety that impairs decision-making. However, having a family emergency plan in place that everyone is familiar with takes the decision-making out of the equation. Determine a meeting point and a way to communicate. Also, create an emergency kit with enough non-perishables, first aid supplies, water, and other necessities for at least a few days.
3. Prepare Your Property: Keep any trees and branches trimmed and remove anything from the outdoors that could be blown away or into your home. Keep your gutters clear. These steps should be ongoing during storm seasons to minimize last-minute preparation. When a storm is on its way, be sure to board up windows and doors for extra protection.
4. Document Your Property: It’s much easier to file property insurance claims for tropical storm damage when you already have an inventory of your property. Keep a detailed list of all valuables. It’s also wise to take photos or videos of property and valuables before a tropical storm for proof of damage or losses.

Filing a Home Insurance Claim for Tropical Storm Damage

If your home is damaged or property is lost due to a tropical storm, it’s important to file your home insurance claim as soon as possible. After ensuring that everyone in your family is safe, begin the following steps.

1. Document Your Property Again: Once you can safely enter your property, take photos or videos of all the damage that the tropical storm created. Document everything both inside and outside. Taking detailed notes at this point can also be helpful for your claim.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company: The faster you contact your insurance provider, the better. Share as many details as possible with your provider for the best results. Be sure to keep copies and notes of all communication, including the names of those you speak to, when you speak to them, and any information they provide during those conversations.
3. Prevent Additional Damage: After documenting everything, it might be necessary to take some steps to mitigate additional damage. For example, you might need to cover damage to the roof or broken windows while waiting for the insurance company to process your claim. If not, additional damage might impact your claim. Be sure to keep records of any steps you take and the work you complete.
4. Consult With Professionals:It is often wise to work with appraisers and third-party adjusters to ensure you get a proper assessment of the damage and repair estimates before filing your claim. Working with an insurance claims lawyer is also a good idea. Having professionals by your side can not only make the claims process easier but also ensure you get a fair settlement.
5. Officially File Your Claim: Once you have gathered all your documentation, estimates, appraisals, and legal advice, it’s time to file your claim with the insurance provider. Provide copies of everything you have gathered so far. If you’ve consulted a home insurance lawyer, they can help you through this process.
6. Review Your Settlement: Your insurance company will provide an offer for covered damage, which might not provide fair compensation. It’s important to carefully review the offer with an attorney’s help. If the offer is too low, your attorney can help dispute it and negotiate on your behalf for a better settlement.

Work With a Tampa Home Insurance Attorney

Tropical storm damage can wreak havoc on your life, but you can reduce its impact with the steps above. Working with our experienced home insurance attorneys from the moment you purchase insurance can ensure you have the proper coverage and peace of mind that your family will receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our team at The Morgan Law Group to learn more about how we can help you begin your journey toward restoration.