The expenses surrounding property damage can be overwhelming. When you have insurance coverage, you should be able to file a claim and access the compensation you need to cover your costs.
However, insurance companies often take advantage of claimants at their greatest time of need. A Massachusetts property damage lawyer at GED Lawyers can help you hold the insurer accountable. Schedule your free consultation today to learn more about your next steps.
Common Types of Property Damage Claims in Massachusetts
Property damage liability claims in Massachusetts can take many forms. However, some of the more common types of losses you could experience due to property damages include the following:
Wind Damage
When a severe storm, tornado, or hurricane sweeps through the area, it can cause significant wind damage. This could damage your roof, landscaping, outdoor equipment, home structure, siding, and other damages. Therefore, it is important to review your insurance policy to determine whether there are any coverage exclusions, as damage exclusions or limitations are often common in Massachusetts.
Many renters’ and homeowners’ insurance policies will not initially cover windstorm or wind coverage. For this reason, it is essential to purchase this coverage separately, so you are protected. However, if you are unsure whether your existing policy has wind damage coverage, you will need to go over your policy line by line with your attorney to find out.
Just because the insurance company says you do not have coverage does not mean you do not. Insurance companies use many tactics to take advantage of property damage victims like yourself. Your attorney can let you know whether wind damage coverage applies in your case.
Flood Damage
You may be shocked to learn that your renters’ or homeowners’ insurance policy does not cover flood damage. It is typical for homeowners’ insurance policies to exclude flood damage. For this reason, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other private insurance companies offer separate flood insurance policies.
Roof Damage
If the roof to your home or business is damaged, you must get that repaired or replaced as soon as possible to get back into your property and maintain its structure. The cost of repairing or replacing a roof will be expensive, so be sure to keep any receipts from the materials you purchase to make these repairs.
It should be noted that roof damage claims are some of the most commonly disputed types of property damage insurance claims. This is because insurance adjusters will often argue with you regarding what caused the damage to your roof. A continuously updated inventory of your property and assets will ensure the insurance company can see that the roof damage in your claim was caused by the event as described.
Damage from Storms and Hurricanes
Hurricanes and severe storms are becoming increasingly common in Massachusetts. These types of storms can cause significant damage that can destroy property. Some of the more common types of damage caused by hurricanes include:
- Structural damage
- Broken windows
- Destroyed appliances and furniture
- Interior damage
- Damage to outdoor fixtures or equipment
- Damage to your property landscaping
- Roof damage and siding damage
- Mold and water damage
- Flooring damage
- Damage caused by fires or explosions
- Damage caused by projectiles
- Damage to your boat, car, or other motor vehicles
Fire Damage
Some of the most common types of items that are destroyed by fire damage include:
- Valuable artwork and paintings
- Trucks and other vehicles
- Expensive furniture and appliances
- Boats and watercrafts
- Musical instruments
- Jewelry
- Electronic equipment
Some of the more common reasons for fire damage in residential and commercial properties include:
- Electrical issues
- Barbecues left unattended
- Unattended cooking equipment
- Heating malfunctions through portable heaters or fireplaces
- Fireworks
- Fires that were set intentionally
- Smoking
- Candles
- Christmas trees
- Inadequate lighting
Water Damage
When there are plumbing issues in your home or a pipe burst, it causes significant water damage. You can expect the insurance company to examine how the damage occurred, whether it could be caused by normal wear and tear, and what it will cost to get your water damage repaired or restored before paying out on your claim.
Preparing to File a Claim for Property Damage
Filing a property damage liability claim in Massachusetts may be far more challenging than you previously thought. Since the insurance company is likely to push back on your claim, it is important that you come prepared. Be sure to take a detailed inventory of your assets and property.
You should keep this list up-to-date as you make repairs and add to your assets. By keeping a thorough account of your property and assets, you will be prepared when the insurance company attempts to argue their worth or make claims the damage was caused in a way other than what was listed in your claim.
What Are an Insurance Company’s Obligations for Property Damage?
Insurance companies are required to handle policy claims fairly. However, that does not stop them from pushing the boundaries and attempting to take advantage of victims wherever possible. Insurance companies have specific responsibilities they must adhere to under Massachusetts law, including:
- Processing claims in a timely manner
- Investigating claims
- Representing policy information factually
- Promptly requesting additional documentation and providing claimants with reasoning
- Payout on claims within 90 days
The insurance company that does not follow their obligations could be found acting in bad faith. If you have an insurance bad faith claim on your hands, your attorney will be prepared to help you bring your case to court.
Generally, the threat of bringing the insurance company to court is enough to get them to settle your claim fairly. However, if the insurance company insists on denying you the compensation and benefits that are rightfully yours, your attorney will be prepared to bring them before a judge and jury.
Contact a Property Damage Attorney in Massachusetts for Help Today
If you are not careful, property damages could destroy you financially. A Massachusetts property damage lawyer at GED Lawyers could help you hold the insurance company accountable.
Access the benefits and compensation that are rightfully yours by scheduling a no-cost, risk-free consultation. You can get started on your case as soon as today by completing our convenient contact form or calling our office.
