When a hurricane strikes, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Not only do you have to deal with the emotional and physical toll of the disaster, but you also face the challenging task of repairing your home and recovering from the damage. As attorneys who have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of hurricanes, we at Strickland & Kendall understand the critical importance of ensuring your insurance claim is robust from the very beginning. Filing a claim can be complex and often frustrating, but taking the right steps can significantly protect your rights and maximize your recovery. Here’s a comprehensive guide to strengthening your claim, with expert legal support from Strickland & Kendall to back you up every step of the way.
1. Put Safety First
Before diving into the details of your insurance claim, the safety of you and your loved ones should be your top priority. After the storm has passed, carefully assess your surroundings for any hazards such as downed power lines, flooding, or unstable structures. It is crucial to only return to your property when it is safe to do so and you have been cleared by the appropriate authorities. Your immediate safety and the safety of those around you are paramount.
Tips for Ensuring Safety:
- Listen to Local Authorities: Follow updates from local emergency services and authorities about the safety of your area.
- Avoid Contact with Water: Floodwaters can be contaminated, so avoid walking or wading through them.
- Check for Gas Leaks: If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply and leave the premises immediately.
2. Document the Damage Thoroughly
Once it’s safe to return to your property, the next critical step is to document all the damage. A thorough record will be invaluable in supporting your insurance claim and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how to comprehensively document the damage:
Take Photos and Videos:
- Detailed Images: Capture close-up shots of the damage, including affected structures, appliances, and personal belongings.
- Wide-Angle Views: Take wide-angle shots to show the extent of the damage to your property and surroundings.
- Interior and Exterior: Document both the interior and exterior of your home, including any damage to vehicles and other affected areas.
Create an Inventory:
- Detailed List: Prepare a detailed list of all damaged or destroyed items. Include descriptions, estimated values, and repair or replacement costs.
- Receipts and Proof of Purchase: Gather any receipts or proof of purchase for higher-value items. This will support your claim and validate your losses.
Save Your Receipts:
- Temporary Repairs: Keep receipts for any materials or labor used in temporary repairs. This will demonstrate your efforts to mitigate further damage and support your claim.
3. Prevent Further Damage
Insurance policies typically require you to take reasonable steps to protect your property from additional damage. Failure to do so may result in a reduction or denial of your claim.
Temporary Repairs:
- Mitigate Damage: After documenting the damage, make temporary repairs to prevent further issues. For instance, cover a leaky roof with a tarp or board up broken windows.
- Avoid Permanent Repairs: Refrain from making permanent repairs until your insurance adjuster has assessed the damage. This will ensure that all damage is properly documented.
Keep Records of Repairs:
- Photos of Repairs: Take photos of the temporary repairs and document the condition of your property before and after repairs.
- Receipts for Work: Save receipts for any work done or materials purchased during the repair process. These will be crucial for your claim.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Prompt notification to your insurance company is essential to initiate your claim process. Most policies have a deadline for filing claims, so it’s crucial not to miss this timeframe.
File Your Claim:
- Contact Information: When you contact your insurance company, provide them with your policy number, a detailed description of the damage, and any supporting documentation. Ensure you receive written confirmation of your claim.
Get a Copy of Your Policy:
- Review Terms: If you do not have a copy of your policy, request one from your insurer. Review the terms carefully to understand what is covered and any exclusions that might apply to hurricane damage.
5. Prepare for the Adjuster’s Visit
The insurance adjuster’s assessment is a critical stage in determining the compensation you’ll receive. Here’s how to ensure the inspection is thorough and accurate:
Be Present:
- Point Out Damage: If possible, be present during the adjuster’s visit. This allows you to point out areas of concern and provide your documentation, including photos, videos, and repair estimates.
Verify Their Credentials:
- Avoid Scams: With the chaos following a hurricane, scammers sometimes pose as insurance adjusters. Always verify that the person inspecting your property is an authorized representative of your insurance company.
Get Your Own Estimates:
- Independent Quotes: Obtain repair estimates from contractors before the adjuster arrives. Having your own estimates helps ensure the insurance adjuster’s valuation is accurate and fair.
6. Don’t Accept the First Offer
Insurance companies often make low initial settlement offers. While it might be tempting to accept this offer, especially when you’re dealing with the aftermath of a disaster, it’s important to review the offer carefully.
Negotiate:
- Review Offers: If you believe the initial offer is insufficient to cover your losses, you have the right to negotiate. Use your documentation and repair estimates to justify a higher settlement.
Seek Legal Support:
- Professional Assistance: If negotiations are challenging or if your claim is denied, reach out to us at Strickland & Kendall. We have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies and can fight for the full compensation you deserve.
7. When to Get Legal Help
Dealing with an insurance claim after a hurricane can be exhausting, especially if the insurance company is pushing back on paying what you’re owed. That’s where we come in. At Strickland & Kendall, we’ve dedicated our careers to helping individuals and businesses recover from natural disasters. Whether you’re just beginning the claims process or have already received an offer, we can ensure you are treated fairly.
Even After Settlement:
- Potential Underpayment: Even if you’ve already accepted a settlement, there may still be an opportunity to secure additional compensation. Insurance companies sometimes underpay claims, hoping policyholders won’t challenge their decisions. We are here to challenge those decisions and help you recover every dollar you’re entitled to.
About Us: Meet Michael Strickland and Ed Kendall
Michael Strickland: Protecting the Law Since 1994
With a legal career spanning since 1994, Michael Strickland has represented clients across nearly every state in various personal injury, product liability, prescription drug, and insurance cases. Known for securing hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts, Michael is licensed in multiple states and federal courts. His affiliations include the American Association for Justice and the Alabama Association for Justice, where he has served as Past President. Beyond the courtroom, Michael is passionate about environmental conservation and enjoys outdoor activities with his family.
Ed Kendall: Over Two Decades of Legal Excellence
Since graduating from Auburn University and Jones School of Law, Ed Kendall has devoted his career to helping individuals and families recover from personal injury and wrongful death cases. With over two decades of experience, Ed has served as Lead Counsel in significant cases, including a $15 million verdict in Foremost Insurance Company v. Parham. His reputation for fighting diligently for clients in both state and federal courts underscores his commitment to ensuring fair compensation for disaster victims.
Contact Us
If you’re navigating the complexities of hurricane damage and insurance claims, Strickland & Kendall is here to assist. Whether you’re initiating the claims process or dealing with a settlement offer, our team is ready to advocate on your behalf. For a free consultation, call us at 800–874–3528 or contact us here. Let us ensure your insurance company takes your claim seriously and fulfills its obligations.