Claim filing can be quite a nerve-wracking task, especially when one is living in a city like St. Petersburg, Florida, where weather events, such as hurricanes, flooding, or windstorms, cause greater property damage.
A Systematic Approach for a Better Claim and Minimal Stress
1. Know Your Policy
Familiarize yourself with the details of your homeowner’s insurance policy before a disaster strikes. Know what is covered and excluded, including specifics about hurricane deductibles, flood insurance, and additional living expenses. In Florida, standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood damage, so consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy if you live in a flood-prone area like St. Petersburg.
2. Document the Damage
After an incident, safety is the priority, and all people should be moved out of harm’s way. Once it is safe to return to your property, document the damage thoroughly. Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, including structural damage, water intrusion, and damaged personal belongings. This visual evidence will be crucial when proving your claim.
3. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurers have a 24/7 claims hotline or an online portal for initiating claims. Be prepared to provide details about the incident, including the date, time, cause of the damage, and the extent of the losses.
4. Work with the Adjuster
An insurance adjuster will come and inspect the damage to assess your claim. Be there to point out all areas of concern. You should give the adjuster your documentation and any repair estimates you’ve obtained.
5. Keep Detailed Records
Keep a file of all claim-related communications: emails, phone calls, and letters. Document the names of representatives you speak with and details of each conversation.
Bottom Line!
If your claim is complicated or if you believe that the claim was not handled fairly, consider hiring a public adjuster or insurance claims attorney who can help represent your interests to be fairly compensated.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is an insurance claim Lawyer. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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