After Hurricane Ian and Nicole struck Florida in 2022, many homeowners were left with more questions than answers. Here are some hurricane insurance claim facts you need to know about what’s covered, what isn’t, and what you can do to help expedite your payout.
Flood damage is usually not covered by most homeowners insurance policies.
This is usually a tough fact to hear, but most standard policies have language inserted to avoid paying you for any flood damage your home or property may experience. Considering a large percentage of coastal homes are damaged due to storm surge from hurricanes, if you live along the coast or live in a city prone to receiving hurricanes, then purchasing flood insurance may be a good idea for you.
Homeowner’s insurance policies generally cover wind damage.
Damage caused by wind is usually covered by your policy, which can include roof damage, damage from wind-driven water that enters your home, broken windows, broken doors, and damage to the exterior of your property.
You may have a separate deductible for hurricane damage.
Hurricane deductibles are usually higher and often a percentage rather than a fixed dollar amount.
Damage from fallen trees is usually covered.
If a tree on your property damages your home due to a hurricane, then generally speaking, your policy should cover the damages and tree removal costs.
If you kept an inventory of your possessions, you may receive compensation for damaged items.
You need to prove you owned what you say was damaged in the hurricane. Take pictures of your home inside and out, log any valuables you keep in your home, keep receipts, and if the hurricane damages your home, make sure to take pictures of the damaged items. Doing this will give you a great foundation when you file your claim.
You may be compensated or reimbursed for living expenses if your home is uninhabitable.
Many homeowners insurance policies offer you some form of compensation if you have no choice but to seek shelter outside of your home due to the damage it sustained. You may be entitled to receive compensation for all your living expenses, including rent and food, for up to a year.
Pictures and videos go a long way. A strong claim is a good claim.
Speak with a Florida Property Damage Claim Attorney
After a hurricane damages your home, the quickest way to get paid is to have skilled property claim attorneys working hard to fight the insurance company on your behalf.
