Recovering from the devastation of significant hurricanes can be an overwhelming process. Whether you are struggling with the effects of Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton, or you faced the wrath of Hurricane Ian, Michael, Dorian, Irma, or even Matthew, you can end up with not just physical damages but also emotional and financial strains.
Unfortunately, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, insurance companies’ primary goal is to protect their profits and may not always have your best interest at heart during these turbulent times. In these challenging moments, the expertise of an experienced Fort Lauderdale hurricane damage lawyer becomes invaluable.
At Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, our team specializes in hurricane property damage claims and is deeply familiar with the intricate dynamics of such cases.
Our commitment is to ensure you get treated with the fairness and respect you deserve and obtain the proper compensation for your losses. As many people are seeing property damage as a result of Hurricane Helene in Florida, it’s more important than ever to have dedicated professionals like us by your side. Our experienced hurricane damage attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, are here to guide and support you through any storm that may come your way.
Hurricanes are monstrous forces of nature that bring various destructive elements with them. The damage these storm systems can inflict on homes and infrastructure can be extensive and multifaceted. Here’s a breakdown of some of the common types of hurricane damage:
As a hurricane approaches, it brings incredibly powerful and sustained winds. These winds can easily uproot trees, rip roofs off houses, shatter windows, and cause other structures to fail.
Heavy rainfall during a hurricane can result in significant flooding, especially in areas below sea level or with poor drainage systems.
A storm surge is a rapid rise in sea level caused by a hurricane’s winds pushing ocean water toward the shore. It can be several feet high and can flood vast areas in a very short amount of time.
Hurricanes can also spawn tornadoes. While these tornadoes are generally weaker than those formed in supercell thunderstorms, they can still cause significant damage.
As any Florida resident knows, hurricanes can cause extensive property damage in Fort Lauderdale. High winds and storm surges can uproot trees, collapse buildings, and wash away whole neighborhoods. In the aftermath of a hurricane, it can be challenging to assess the extent of the damage. However, there are some steps that homeowners and businesses can take to assess the damage and begin the process of rebuilding.
First, it is vital to stay safe. Avoid downed power lines and broken glass and be aware of your surroundings. If possible, photograph or videotape the damage for insurance purposes.
Once you have assessed the immediate dangers, you can begin to assess the damage to your property. Start by making a list of all the damage. Include items damaged beyond repair and those that need to be repaired.
If you wait too long, much of the evidence supporting your allegation will be lost. You must start snapping pictures and recording films immediately before the weather, or other factors change. It could take the insurance company months to resolve your claim, so having evidence of the damage while it’s still fresh is essential.
Never lose track of your receipts for money spent out of pocket. Suppose you cannot stay in your home due to damage. In that case, your insurance may cover some of the costs associated with finding alternative lodging, obtaining alternate meals, and getting to and from your temporary location. Collect all documentation (including credit card statements) in a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag.
Save duplicates of all property evaluations for repairs, appraisals, and inspections. For example, if the storm destroyed your clothing, furniture, or other belongings and you had to replace them, you should save receipts as proof that you paid for the replacements. The key line is that you should prepare as though you have to prove all these losses in front of a judge in a year.
Once you have compiled a list, you can begin to contact your insurance company and start the process of filing a claim. In addition, you will need to contact contractors to get estimates for repairs.
When you live in a hurricane-prone area like Florida, ensuring you have the right insurance coverage is necessary. However, navigating the maze of homeowners’ insurance in Fort Lauderdale, especially concerning hurricanes, can be daunting. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand what hurricane insurance typically covers and what it doesn’t.
Hurricane insurance protects homeowners from damages caused by hurricanes, tropical storms, and other named storms. Key points include:
While hurricane insurance sounds comprehensive, it’s essential to understand its limitations. Several damages that you might assume have coverage under your policy may not. Key exclusions include:
Hurricanes are distressing, and the aftermath can be a challenging period filled with confusion and emotional stress. If you’ve suffered damage from a hurricane like Ian, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you go through the process of filing an insurance claim in Fort Lauderdale:
Step 1. Contact a Fort Lauderdale Hurricane Damage Attorney
Step 2. Promptly Notify Your Insurance Company
Step 3. Document Thoroughly
Step 4. Catalog Your Losses
Step 5. Gather Receipts
Step 6. Document Your Communication with the Insurance Company
Step 7. Undertake Temporary Emergency Repairs
Step 8. Question the Insurer’s Estimate
Step 9. Look Over Your Insurance Policy
Hurricanes are a looming threat that can cause significant property damage. Filing a hurricane insurance claim might seem the logical next step after a storm wreaks havoc. But many face the bitter reality of having their claims denied. Here are some common reasons why your hurricane claim might face rejection:
Businesses, much like homes, can face severe damage during hurricanes. These damages, however, go beyond physical destruction, reaching the critical aspect of lost income. Filing a business hurricane insurance claim requires expertise and patience. Critical considerations for business owners include:
Found along the southeastern coast of Florida, Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its sprawling beaches, boating canals, and vibrant arts scene. However, its tropical rainforest climate also means the city is no stranger to the annual hurricane season. With temperatures consistently warm year-round and a pronounced rainy season from May through October, residents must be well-prepared for hurricanes’ potential challenges. In light of this, several resources are available for Fort Lauderdale residents to ensure they have adequate preparation for hurricane season:
Florida’s insurance landscape has been marred by various challenges in recent times. From allegations of corruption and negligence to outright fraud, the state’s insurance industry has seen its reputation tarnished. It’s not just about insurance companies; the situation has made it increasingly difficult for homeowners, who often find themselves battling against these massive entities, trying to ensure that they receive the fair treatment and compensation they deserve.
This is where the attorneys at Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers come into play. Familiar with the intricacies of the Florida insurance landscape, we are well-versed in the tactics employed by these insurance companies. More importantly, we understand property damage claims, homeowners’ insurance claims, and the nuances of Florida laws. With our expertise and dedication, Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring homeowners don’t have to go through the process alone. When you have us by your side, you can be confident that someone is fighting relentlessly for your rights and ensuring you get the justice you deserve.
In addition to Fort Lauderdale, our legal team also serves Pompano Beach, Miami, Weston, Plantation, Hialeah, Sunrise, Davie, Fort Myers, and more. Contact us at 954.712.8877 to learn more about how we can help with your hurricane insurance claim.
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Fort Lauderdale Office
1700 NW 64th St Suite 460
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
(954) 712-8877
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2300 W 84th St Ste 213
Hialeah, FL 33016
(954) 712-8877