Now that it is officially hurricane season, it’s important to be prepared. Of course, living in Florida the threat of a hurricane is nothing new but is still very serious. What many people don’t realize though is the true scope of hurricane damage.
Even if there is a hurricane nearby, or even a just large storm, your home could be damaged enough to warrant an insurance claim. Before you submit that claim you should know what to do, who to call, and what to expect.
Today's blog goes over what steps you need to tackle a hurricane damage insurance claim with as little extra stress as possible. Whether you suffered major damage or a small repair, it will always come in handy to know what to expect beforehand.
Ready to file an insurance claim? Call Liberty Adjusters first, we can walk you through your claim step by step to ensure you get the largest settlement possible. Contact us today!
Be Hurricane Ready, Preparation is Key
After a hurricane hits, it’s likely the last thing on your mind is your insurance policy language. This is exactly why it is so important to be prepared before any disaster strikes. Give yourself some peace of mind and make sure you are properly covered before a disaster occurs.
Read More > Insurance Claim 101
Review Your Insurance Policy
The first step to having more peace of mind during hurricane season is to double-check your insurance policy and make sure you have proper coverage. It’s easy to go weeks, months, even years not fully understanding the policy you pay for, so let’s change that today!
You should give extra attention to how your policy talks about water and flood damage. In most cases, the floods caused by storms aren’t included in your general hurricane policy but are covered in a separate flood insurance policy. Don’t regret this step, check your policy today!
Most policies have a 30-day waiting period until they become effective. Don’t wait until the hurricane is about to hit before making changes or applying for coverage.
Not sure what you’re looking for? Give us a call at Liberty Adjusters, and we can help walk you through the confusing language of your insurance policy.
Inspect and Document Damage
After you’ve confirmed everyone’s safety, you’ll want to inspect your property for structural damage. Be cautious, but thoroughly look for any damage on your main building, sheds, patio, and any other structures on the property.
Documenting the process is just as important as inspecting everything, if not more so. Take note of any damage and keep a list ready for your insurance adjuster to see. Taking photos and videos of any damage can help build a strong case and make the entire process go smoothly.
Damaged Items
Your insurance company will most likely ask you to fill out a proof of loss statement, which we thoroughly explained in another blog post. In short, a proof of loss statement is requested for the homeowner to declare the current value of loss that is being claimed. This number does not have to be exactly perfect, and you are still able to add to it later, but it should be as accurate as possible.
Whether or not you have received a proof of loss statement, you should be listing and documenting any items that have been damaged. Avoid throwing away any item that you intend to use in your insurance claim, as you’ll want all the proof you can get.
Read More > What is a Proof of Loss Statement?
Take Photos
If you are reading this article, chances are high that you can open your phone's camera up within a few seconds. We always have a phone in our pocket, and those cameras they use keep getting better and better!
Take the extra time and make sure you take detailed photographs and videos of any damage you intend on reporting. As you could imagine, having photographic evidence makes the claim substantially easier. After all, a picture is worth 1000 words
If you must make temporary repairs, make sure to photograph the damage both before and after.
Call Liberty Adjusters Before You File Your Claim
When dealing with insurance companies, you’ll want the job done right the FIRST time. Dealing with damage from a hurricane is already enough of a struggle, you don’t need even more stress from your insurance company. You need someone on your side throughout this process, ready to handle the tough questions from your insurance.
Submit your claim with Liberty Adjusters today! We work hard to get the best insurance settlements deserved by Florida property owners. Whether you need to reopen a denied claim or get a new damage claim started, reach out to our public adjusters today at 813-922-5129. We’re on your side, always!