Florida homeowners are no strangers to the devastating effects of severe weather, including powerful storms that can cause significant damage to homes and properties. Knowing what your insurance policy covers and how to file a storm damage claim is important in the aftermath of a storm. Filing insurance claims for storm damage can be a complicated process. Still, a knowledgeable storm damage lawyer, like one from the Arias & Abbass Your Attorneys team, can help you navigate it and get the compensation you deserve.
How Does Florida Define Storm Damage?
Florida law defines storm damage as any damage to property caused by a powerful storm, such as a hurricane or windstorm.
A hurricane is a storm system that the National Hurricane Center declared a hurricane and named. Windstorm means wind, wind gusts, hail, rain, tornadoes, or cyclones caused by or resulting from a hurricane.
Florida storm damage can include various issues, such as structural damage to your home, roof leaks, and fallen trees or branches.
What Types of Storm Damage Is Covered by Insurance?
Florida law requires all insurance companies to offer hurricane deductibles and provide homeowners insurance policies that cover windstorm damage, except for those that cover homes in certain coastal areas. Most homeowners insurance policies also cover damage caused by storms such as tornadoes and hail.
Here are some examples of storm damage that may be covered by insurance in Florida:
- Roof damage, such as shingles being blown off or the roof collapsing;
- Siding damage, such as holes or tears in the siding;
- Window damage, such as broken glass or windows being blown out;
- Water damage, such as rain entering the home through a damaged roof or window;
- Tree damage, such as trees falling on a home or damaging power lines; and
- Damage to personal property, such as furniture, appliances, and electronics
It is important to note that not all storm damage is covered by insurance. For example, homeowners insurance typically does not cover earthquakes and flooding from storm surges. However, separate policies can be purchased to cover damage from these events.
What About Storm Damage Not Caused by a Named Hurricane?
Storm damage caused by storms that are not hurricanes is typically covered under the “all other perils” or “covered perils” category of homeowners insurance. This means that you may be able to file a claim for storm damage caused by strong winds, hail, or lightning, even if the storm was not named.
There is usually a separate deductible for all other perils claims. This means you must pay a certain amount out of pocket before your insurance company will start paying for your damages.
If you are unsure whether your homeowners insurance policy covers storm damage, you can contact us, and we’ll look over your policy.
What to Do If a Storm Has Damaged Your Property
If a storm in Florida has damaged your property, here are some steps you can take to maximize your compensation and save you time:
- Document the damage. Take photos and videos of the affected areas once it is safe. This will help you prove your case to your insurance company.
- Contact your insurance company right away. Report the damage and start the claims process. Keep track of all conversations with your insurance company.
- Make temporary repairs. It is important to take steps to mitigate your damages. This includes making temporary repairs, like covering holes or boarding up windows to prevent further damage to your property.
- Hire a qualified professional to inspect the damage and estimate the repair cost. This will help you get a fair settlement from your insurance company.
If you are still trying to get your insurance company to pay your claim or are not satisfied with the amount of the settlement offer, now is the time to hire a storm damage lawyer.
Why Hire a Storm Damage Attorney?
Storm damage attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve for your storm damage. They can also help you navigate the complex insurance claims process and fight for your rights. If you are having trouble getting your insurance company to pay your claim or if you are not satisfied with the amount of the settlement offer, a storm damage attorney can help you negotiate with your insurance company and fight for your rights.
Arias & Abbass Your Attorneys – Florida Storm Damage Attorneys
At Arias & Abbass Your Attorneys, our experienced storm damage lawyers can assist you with every step of your claim, from filing to settlement. Our firm has extensive experience helping homeowners and businesses in Florida recover compensation for storm damage. We know insurance companies’ tactics to avoid paying claims and are not afraid to fight for your rights.
We’re also hail damage attorneys and property damage attorneys, so you can rest assured that we have the expertise and experience to help you get the results you need. Contact us today for a free consultation!
