Filing a claim for damage to your home should be a straightforward process. In general, you should secure your property, report the damage to your insurance company, and document your covered losses, including real and personal property. Your insurance company will send a claims adjuster to inspect the damage and assess your claim’s value.
However, the process of filing a home insurance claim can be frustrating on your own. Consider getting legal support from a Florida homeowner insurance lawyer who can deal with the insurance company. They can also clarify how to file a home insurance claim and keep you updated as your claim moves forward. You can get a free claim review to learn more about your insurance policy’s details and the claims process.
Know What to Do at Each Step of the Home Insurance Claims Filing Process
The homeowners insurance claim process starts with notifying your insurance company of the damage your property sustained. An attorney can help you go into the claims process understanding its complexities and prepared to fight for the protection your homeowners policy affords you.
You should also be prepared for lots of paperwork and respond to information and evidence requests promptly. If a Florida property damage lawyer represents you, they can handle all claim-related legal and insurance matters for you.
Report the Damage to Your Insurance Company Immediately
Report your property damage and file your claim as soon as possible since a delay could hinder or invalidate it. Your claim will be assigned to a claims adjuster who will clarify the process for you.
Take Reasonable Measures to Prevent Additional Damage
The protective and preventive measures you take will depend on the type of damage your home has. Do whatever you can to secure your property, including making temporary repairs (like tarping your roof and boarding up windows) and relocating your family while your home is unusable.
Complete and Submit Insurance Claim Forms
Your insurer will provide you with the required claim forms. An error can delay your claim, so carefully complete each section. You should also double-check the forms for accuracy and completion before submitting them. Review your homeowners insurance policy for specific filing guidelines and stick to its specific process.
Prepare for the Insurance Adjuster’s Visit to Your Home
Compile relevant paperwork, including a copy of your policy and receipts for necessary repairs to secure your home. Ensure your home is as safe as possible for their inspection. If you have a home insurance lawyer, they will accompany you during the inspection and clarify what to expect when dealing with the insurance adjuster.
An Attorney Can Document Your Covered Losses and Fight to Maximize Your Compensation
Since each insurance policy is different, you must understand what yours considers covered losses. The Insurance Information Institute (III) defines covered losses and those that are not typically covered by most homeowners’ policies, like flooding due to heavy rain or an overflowing body of water, which could require a separate flood insurance policy.
Consult your policy for specific details, but covered losses typically include:
- Structural damage to your primary dwelling
- Landscaping and outbuildings
- Personal belongings
- Attached property (garage, deck, etc.)
- Liability due to homeowner negligence
You can document your covered losses with photos and video footage (before and after), receipts, bills, estimates, and other proof of costs and anticipated costs. Your evidence collection can also include written testimonials from relevant home repair experts (electricians, plumbers, architects, mold abatement specialists, etc.)
You Do not have to Accept the Insurance Company’s First Settlement Offer
Your insurance company operates with its bottom line in mind. If you have a home insurance attorney, they will keep your needs, preferences, and best interests at the forefront. The claims adjuster assigned to your case may make a swift settlement offer, but you do not have to accept it.
Resolving your claim can involve multiple rounds of negotiation. You can negotiate for a larger settlement on your own or with the help of a home claims attorney. Your lawyer will weigh each offer and make counteroffers as necessary. Negotiations will end when both sides agree on a settlement amount.
A Home Insurance Claims Lawyer Can Navigate the Claim Filing Process for You
If a property damage attorney represents you, they will go the extra mile for you, examine your policy in detail, and ensure your claim is not lost in a myriad of claims after a natural disaster. They will also:
- Complete the required Proof of Loss form
- Obtain relevant official forms (police, fire, etc.)
- Protect you from bad faith insurance tactics
- Negotiate for the best possible financial outcome
- Represent you in court, though this is rare
Your lawyer can also file your claim on time, per Florida Statutes § 627.7142. They can also provide ongoing updates, so you are always aware of where you stand. If your initial settlement offer is insufficient, or the insurer denies your claim, your attorney can help you file an appeal.
At GED Lawyers, We Represent Florida Homeowners on a Contingency Fee Basis
The cost of hiring a home insurance claims lawyer does not have to add to the stress and frustration of resolving your claim and repairing or rebuilding your home. Our law firm provides risk-free legal service and support by accepting claims like yours on a contingency fee basis.
We will cover all upfront and ongoing costs associated with preparing your claim and documenting your covered losses. You pay nothing upfront or out of pocket. Our fee is a percentage of your compensation, so if you do not get compensation, you will not owe us any fees.
Get a No-Cost, No-Obligation Review of Your Home Insurance Claim
If a covered disaster recently damaged your home and you need to file a claim with your insurer, our law firm can guide you through the process. We can communicate with the claims adjuster, document your covered losses, and negotiate for a favorable settlement.
Find out how to file a home insurance claim and how hard our Florida home insurance claim attorneys will work to maximize your financial compensation. Contact our team at Ged Lawyers now for a free initial consultation.
