Property damages can be expensive. As a result, many people rely on their insurance coverage to cover these costs. Unfortunately, filing a claim with the insurance company does not necessarily mean you will be able to obtain the benefits or compensation you need. Even though you purchased insurance coverage, insurance companies are known for taking advantage of claimants.
If you hope to hold the insurance company accountable to their application, you may need the assistance of an Estero Personal Injury lawyer at GED Lawyers. Schedule your free consultation today to discuss your legal options for financial recovery.
What Do Property Damage Insurance Policies Cover?
Understanding what your property damage insurance policy covers will be essential. One of the top ways insurance companies take advantage of property damage victims is by arguing that their policy excludes the particular damage in question.
Some of the more common types of damages covered by casualty, general liability, renters’, and homeowner’s insurance include:
- Smoke damage
- Wind or hail damage
- Damage from downed trees
- Roof damage
- Damage caused by vandalism or theft
- Snow, sleet, or ice damage
- Damage caused by negligent lighting, fire, or explosion
- Motor vehicle or aircraft damage
- Damage caused by riots or a civil commotion
These are just a few of the common types of damages that may be protected through your insurance policy. It is important to keep in mind that every person’s insurance policy will be different and cover different things based on your individual needs and the insurance company in question.
If you are unsure what your insurance policy covers, be sure to contact your property damage attorney to go over your policy details further.
Property Damages That May Not be Covered by Your Insurance Policy
Although insurance policies generally cover certain things, there are some types of property damages that are not covered through standard insurance policies. You may, however, be able to purchase additional coverage through your own insurance company or another type of insurer.
Some of the different types of damages that your standard insurance policy may not cover include:
- Backed-up sewers caused by damaged, cracked, or blocked pipelines or aging sewer systems
- Flood damage which is not usually considered a part of a traditional homeowners or renters insurance policy
- Earthquake damage, despite the fact that Florida is regarded as a moderate earthquake activity state
- Property damage caused by excessive wear and tear, improper maintenance, or negligenc
If you have concerns that the insurance company is going to deny your claim due to property damage exclusion, or if you believe you purchased the coverage you need, but the insurance company says otherwise, get ready to have your property damage lawyer in Florida step in and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
Pursuing a Property Damage Insurance Claim in Estero
One of the most important things you can do if you plan on filing a property damage liability claim in Florida is to provide the insurance company with an inventory of your property and assets. When you purchase your insurance policy, it is a good time to document your property and assets.
Be sure to write down the make, model, and identifying information, so the insurance company understands the value of the items in question. You should also be sure to take photos of the property and assets to document the condition they were in before the event that caused the property damages.
You should immediately notify the insurance company of damage to your home and take steps to protect it from additional damages. This might be in boarding up windows or a part of the roof, so additional rain or pests cannot cause further damage. The insurance company will be responsible for covering the costs of the materials you used to take these protective measures.
Common Reasons Your Florida Property Damage Claim Could Be Denied
Insurance companies deny property damage claims every day. This is partly because the insurance company loses money every time it pays out on a client. However, this should not be your problem. Some of the more common reasons insurance companies give for property damage claim denials include:
- A lapse in coverage
- Policy cancellations
- Policy nonpayment
- Exaggerating the extent of the property damage
- Exaggerating or lying about how the property damage occurred
- Failing to file the claim before the insurance company deadline
- Property damage arising through an excluded event like flooding
- Failing to protect your property or assets from additional damages
These are just a few of the more common reasons for claim denials. Some are valid, while others may be considered in bad faith. Therefore, your attorney will need to carefully examine your claim denial to determine whether the insurance company has just cause to deny your claim. If they do, your attorney may be able to get your denial overturned by providing the insurance company with additional supporting information such as an inventory of your assets and property, photos of the property damage, or other evidence.
If the insurance company is acting in bad faith, your attorney may be able to get them to settle your claim fairly by threatening to bring them to court. Generally, insurance companies are more willing to settle your claim fairly, as going to court will cost them more. You can learn more about what to expect from your insurance claim when you discuss the circumstances of your property damage case with your attorney.
Discuss Your Claim with a Property Damage Lawyer in Estero Today
Do not let the insurance company take advantage of you in your greatest time of need. When you have paid your insurance premiums, the insurance company owes you.
Get help filing your claim and appealing your claim denials when you contact an Estero property damage lawyer at GED Lawyers. Schedule your no-cost, risk-free consultation when you call our office or fill out our online contact form.
