If your home has been damaged during a hurricane, storm, or flood, you may need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. But many Florida homeowners ask the same question: Can I perform temporary repairs and get reimbursed for those expenses by my insurance company?
The short answer is “yes and maybe”. You need to follow certain conditions to get reimbursed for temporary repairs.
It’s critical to know that acting quickly to protect your property is not only allowed, but it’s also often required by your insurance policy. However, you must follow specific steps to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
Your Obligation to Prevent Further Damage
Almost all homeowner insurance policies in Florida include a “duty to mitigate” clause. This means that after a covered loss, you’re required to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. Examples include:
- Covering broken windows or holes in the roof with tarps or plywood
- Shutting off water to stop a plumbing leak
- Removing wet carpeting or drywall to prevent mold
- Boarding up doors or openings to prevent trespass or theft
By not taking these steps, you risk the insurer denying a portion or all of your claim.
Will My Insurance Company Reimburse Me For Temporary Repairs?
Insurance companies generally do reimburse reasonable and necessary costs for temporary repairs, as long as they’re properly documented and the damage itself is covered by your policy. However, there are important rules to follow:
- Do not make permanent repairs before an adjuster inspects the damage.
- Keep all receipts from materials or emergency services (like water removal).
- Take before-and-after photos showing both the damage and your temporary repair work.
- Notify your insurance company immediately after the loss and let them know what steps you’ve taken.
- Speak with a property damage lawyer as soon as possible to follow an action plan to help increase your chances of getting a high payout from your insurance company.
What Not to Do
- Don’t discard damaged items too quickly. Keep them for the adjuster to inspect.
- Don’t begin full renovations. Permanent repairs may give insurers a reason to deny coverage or argue they can’t properly assess the damage.
- Don’t hire a contractor without understanding your policy. Some insurers have restrictions or preferred vendor lists.
If you’re unsure whether a repair is considered temporary or permanent, it’s best to consult with a property damage attorney before moving forward.
FAQs: Temporary Repairs and Insurance Claims
1. What qualifies as a temporary repair?
Temporary repairs are short-term fixes made to protect your property from further damage. Examples include placing tarps over a leaking roof or boarding up broken windows.
2. Can I be denied reimbursement for temporary repairs?
Yes, if the repairs are not well-documented, exceed what’s considered “reasonable,” or are deemed permanent, your insurance company may deny reimbursement.
3. Should I wait for the insurance adjuster before making any repairs?
You should not wait if delaying repairs could cause further damage. However, limit your work to temporary measures only and thoroughly document everything.
4. What proof should I keep to support my reimbursement request?
Save all receipts, take detailed photos before and after repairs, and keep a detailed record of your actions and expenses. These records will be crucial during your claim.
5. Can I hire a contractor for temporary repairs?
Yes, but make sure they understand the scope should remain temporary and that you receive itemized invoices. Hiring a licensed contractor can add credibility to your reimbursement request. Remember to check your policy for restrictions or consult with a property damage lawyer.
Need Legal Help With Your Property Damage Claim?
If you’re unsure whether your insurance company will reimburse your temporary repair costs, or they’ve already denied your claim, JT Law Firm can help.
We provide legal support to homeowners across Florida to hold insurance companies accountable for their obligations to their policyholders.
Call (855) 585-2997 or send us a message!
Free claim reviews. No fees unless we win. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
