Settling an insurance claim after a hurricane can be a turbulent journey to navigate, but with the right information, you'll be off to a great start.
This guide highlights all you need to know about settling a hurricane insurance claim, from the first step to when the adjuster arrives.
There's a specific time frame to file your claim
The deadline for filing an insurance claim after a hurricane is 180 days. After this time, your claim may be void. It's in your best interest to file your hurricane insurance claim as early as possible, increasing your chances of obtaining your reimbursement and repairs on time.
However, you need to confirm the time limit to file your claim with your insurer, as their policy may spell out a slightly different deadline.
Verify how long the process will take
Settling insurance claims takes time as there's a lot of documentation, assessment, and proving to do. Photos of damages will be documented, an adjuster will visit your home to take inventory of damaged items, and you'll fill out a proof of loss statement. Insurance companies have 30 days to offer a settlement amount from the day they receive your documentation.
Know what your insurance policy covers
This is where things get confusing. You see, standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover all hurricane damages; for instance, damage by flooding and storm surge are not covered. So when your home gets flooded during a hurricane, you may not be compensated for whatever damage it causes unless you have flood insurance. In such a case, you would need to file a hurricane insurance claim and a flood insurance claim separately. Hurricane insurance will typically cover other damages such as destroyed roofs and windows.
However, not all policies are the same, so it's best to ascertain what yours covers before taking any steps.
Estimate your claim
It's in your interest not to leave an insurance company to estimate your claim for you. If you allow that, expect an under-estimation. Estimate your claim by assessing the damage sustained and the repair cost for everything. You may need to call in local experts such as carpenters, window replacement experts, and other relevant contractors to evaluate the cost. Keep a record of all these estimates as you'll present them with your claim.
Now, it's expected that you spend a deductible on repairs before your insurer reimburses you and handles the rest. Your claim will typically exceed this deductible, so determine the percentage on your policy and estimate the corresponding amount.
Make minor, temporary repairs
You're expected to protect your property from further damage by executing some temporary repairs. For example, if a broken window exposes your home to further damage, you need to find a way to block it, even though that means spending out-of-pocket. Your insurance company will reimburse you for such temporary repairs. Do not make costly permanent repairs until the adjuster has assessed the damage. That's because you may end up repairing what the settlement amount doesn't cover.
Welcome the adjuster with as much documentation as possible
Since you've probably made some repairs before the adjuster arrives, they'll likely want to see the original state of your home immediately after the hurricane. So ensure you have enough photos of the wreck. Having an inventory of all affected belongings is a plus.
You'll be given a proof of loss form to fill out. Describe the damaged property as accurately as possible, including the replacement or repair cost, as the insurance company will use that to process your claim and present an offer.
FAQs
How much hurricane settlement am I entitled to?
Insurance companies use different criteria to estimate your settlement amount. However, keep in mind that insurance companies are out for their own interest, so they typically present low settlement offers after big disasters like hurricanes. You're not mandated to accept an offer you feel is not ideal, so it's worth seeking help from a law firm for hurricane insurance claims. Hurricane insurance claim lawyers can help you negotiate and prove the extent of your claim.
What should I do when my insurer delays payment or underpays?
If you suspect your insurance company unnecessarily delaying your settlement or providing an inconsiderate offer, do not hesitate to contact a hurricane insurance claim attorney.
Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?
A standard homeowners policy covers damage by wind and water from the roof, windows, doors, and holes in the walls; it does not cover flooding and storm surges.
Final thoughts
Proper documentation immediately after a hurricane is one of your greatest tools to ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Having legal backing is also in your best interest, as this will help you navigate things when your insurance company attempts to act in bad faith.
