The Calm Before The Storm

Hurricane Dorian is approaching off the east coast of Florida while many Florida homeowners are still dealing with battles with their insurance company to make repairs to their home from the aftermath from Hurricane Irma in September of 2017. Many insureds across Florida have filed lawsuits to enforce the rights under their policy, while the insurance companies put up a vigorous defense to protect their bottom-line.

The claim reporting process is one of the most important parts of your claim. Giving a detailed report of your claim can streamline the process and limit delays in the ultimate resolution of
your claim.  What you do before and after the storm is vital to ensure your policy rights are protected.

Here are some things you should know before and after the storm regarding your claim.

 

Before:

1. Take Pictures of your personal items, and if possible, locate the receipt.
2. Make sure you have paid your premium, and your policy is effective.
3. Locate your policy and be aware of your Hurricane Deductible. Your deductible is different in the event of a hurricane and is typically higher than your regular deductible.
4. Review your policy.

After:

1. Before you call your insurance company. Take pictures of the damage you observe and write it down. Take detailed notes. I have prepared a list of areas in your home that the insurance
   companies will look at in evaluating your claim. Feel free to use this list to help document damages you observe.
2. Call your insurance company ASAP. If there is a delay in reporting your claim, the insurance company will try to use that against you and may ultimately deny your claim.
3. Note that you have a duty to protect your home from further damage at and after the loss. This would include putting tarp on the roof to prevent from further water intrusion. This would also
   include getting water remediation services to dry out wet spots to prevent mold. Review your policy regarding emergency remediation services and know your rights under the policy.
4. Review the section of your policy that is title “Conditions” and make sure you are following all the relevant conditions regarding your claim.
5. When the insurance company comes to assess the damage, make sure you walk with the field adjuster and point to all the damaged areas caused by the storm.
6. Follow up with the status of your claim. Get the email for your assigned desk adjuster. Communicate with your desk adjuster via email. Follow up all phone conversations with emails.