Five of the most common property damage claims for Florida homeowners are wind and hurricanes, fire and smoke, water and mold, roof damage, and vandalism or robbery. If your insurance policy covers these events, you should be able to get compensation when you file a complete and valid claim.
If your insurance company does not respond to your claim, does not conduct a timely investigation, or denies your claim altogether, a Boca Raton property damage lawyer can help you seek the compensation you need. A lawyer may review your case at no cost or obligation. They may also accept your case on contingency, meaning you can get legal service and support at no upfront cost to you.
Know What Types of Property Damage Your Policy Considers a Covered Loss
Not every homeowner’s policy covers the same types of damage. When you choose to have an insurance claims lawyer handle your case, one of the first things they will do is examine your policy. They will look for:
- The declarations page
- Your name and policy number
- The underwriter’s name
- A description of the insured property
- The policy’s starting and ending dates
- A description of covered losses
- The amount of your deductible
- The insuring agreement
- Any named exclusions
An insurance policy is a very detailed contract full of legal and insurance language and jargon. A lawyer can help you cut through any confusion and clarify exactly what your rights are according to your policy’s specific details.
While every policy is unique, some of the common types of property damage an insurance policy may cover include:
1. Wind and Hurricane Damage
High-speed winds can cause catastrophic damage to your Florida property, including roof damage, upending trees and landscaping, and knocking down outbuildings. It can also cause shattered or broken windows.
When winds reach hurricane levels, the damage can be even more severe. It can result in damage from high-speed debris and other projectiles, vehicle damage or destruction, and irreparable damage to your home’s structure or foundation.
2. Fire and Smoke Damage
A fire can cause damage to your home, outbuildings, and personal possessions. It can also cause total property loss. You must board and secure your home and resolve any resulting smoke and water damage. A fire can also force you to find temporary housing for yourself and your family.
3. Water and Mold Damage
When your property experiences flood damage, you may have to rely on flood insurance for compensation. Your homeowner’s policy could cover water damage resulting from other types of sudden or accidental damage, such as a burst pipe or appliance overflow. It may also cover mold resulting from incidents of these types.
If you are a condo owner, a lawyer can clarify who is responsible for water damage, whether it’s a member of your maintenance crew or management company, plumber, construction crew, or another party.
4. Roof Damage
According to the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (NOOA), hurricane season in Florida generally lasts from June to November. Homeowners are encouraged to take protective measures to secure their property during the storm season.
Insurance usually covers roof damage caused by a weather-related disaster, such as high winds, severe rainstorms, thunderstorms, hurricanes, or tornados. Coverage should also include damage from falling trees.
5. Vandalism and Robbery
Few things can be as frightful and stressful as having your home maliciously burgled or vandalized. Your homeowner’s insurance will typically compensate you for covered losses, including stolen property, graffiti or spray paint, and other property damage.
Commonly Reported Commercial Property Damage Claims
Insurance claims attorneys also represent business property owners. Maintaining and securing a business property can be costly. When you need the protection your policy offers, you should be able to rely on it to restore your business and get back to work.
Some of the most common commercial property damage claims include:
- Burglary and theft claims, which can be difficult to prove on your own
- Storm damage, which can make it difficult or impossible to open your doors
- Fire damage, which can ruin your building and its contents and inventory
- Window damage, which can pose a hazard to employees and customers
- Roof damage, which can be difficult to assess due to ordinary wear and tear
A lawyer can assess the value of your claim, consult business and property damage experts, and take on the insurance company and its adjuster on your behalf to fight for fair compensation.
A Property Damage Lawyer Will Advocate for You With the Insurance Company
Whether your residential or commercial property was damaged, your lawyer will deal with the legal and insurance aftermath. While you focus on protecting your property from further damage and relocating your family or business, your lawyer can get to work fighting for financial compensation.
They will:
- Document your covered losses
- Handle all communication with the insurance adjuster
- Complete and submit insurance claim forms
Your legal team will help you understand the time you have to file your claim, according to according to Florida Statutes § 95.11. They will also clarify the importance of starting immediately and the costly consequences of an expired deadline.
A Lawyer Can Help You Appeal a Lowball Offer or Denial of Your Initial Claim
You are entitled to compensation from your insurance company for losses covered in your policy. If you are struggling to obtain the compensation you deserve, a property insurance claim lawyer can take on the insurance company for you.
They will review the insurance company’s offer or rejection letter. Your lawyer will represent you during arbitration and throughout the settlement negotiation process. If you must file an appeal, they will clarify the process and fight for your rights from start to finish.
Get Compensation for Common Property Damage Claims in Florida
If a fire, natural disaster, theft, or other unforeseen event damaged your property, your insurance policy should protect you. Our law firm can help you file your claim or fight a denied claim by filing an effective appeal.
Your financial recovery is our priority. Contact our consultation team at Ged Lawyers to learn more about getting the compensation your policy entitles you to recover.
