If you have experienced damage to your home in Fort Lauderdale due to unforeseen events like hurricanes, severe storms, electrical issues, or leaks, you deserve compensation without reaching into your pocket. Homeowners’ insurance is there for this very reason: to cover repair costs, replace belongings, or even help you get a new home.

Our Fort Lauderdale homeowners’ insurance lawyers understand that oftentimes insurance companies prioritize their profit margins over the genuine needs of homeowners. This can be especially true during extensive events like Florida’s hurricanes or tropical storms, where many claims get filed simultaneously. Such situations can lead to delays, reduced settlements, or even claim denials.

At Schilling & Silvers PLLC, our dedicated team of seasoned homeowners’ insurance attorneys in Fort Lauderdale are here for you if you’re facing setbacks with your claim, you’re not sure how to handle it, or even if it has been denied. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation to learn more about your rights as a Broward County homeowner.

What Does Florida Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Florida homeowners insurance policies often provide several vital protections. Here’s a summary of what’s generally covered:

Coverage A (Dwelling) – This covers damages to your home from events like fires, wind, lightning, or hail.
Coverage B (Other Structures) – This protects detached structures on your property, such as fences or sheds.
Coverage C (Personal Property) – Should your personal belongings get stolen or damaged, this coverage helps with their repair or replacement.
Courage D (Loss of Use or Additional Living Expense) – If a covered event makes your home unlivable, this will assist with the costs of finding a temporary place to stay.
Coverage E (Personal Liability) – If you unintentionally damage someone else’s property or cause injury due to negligence, this coverage has your back.

Florida home insurance typically protects you from the following:

Explosions
Falling objects
Fires
Hail events
Lightning strikes
Vandalism and theft
Weight of snow or ice
Wind incidents

However, it’s crucial to understand that standard policies in Florida do not cover flood damage. Homeowners often turn to special insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for flood coverage.

Additionally, the Florida statute section 627.715 describes the rules and requirements for homeowners insurance in the state. This statute defines the optional coverage available for sinkhole-related damages, as well as the conditions under which insurance companies must provide such coverage. As experienced homeowners’ insurance lawyers in Fort Lauderdale, we always recommend homeowners get familiar with this statute in order to better understand the specifics of their policies and their rights as policyholders.

If you have been denied a homeowners' insurance claim, it is crucial to seek legal help.

Common Types of Insurance Claims for Homeowners in Fort Lauderdale

Homeowners in Fort Lauderdale often face a variety of challenges when it comes to maintaining the safety and integrity of their homes. Over the years, various incidents have led homeowners to file multiple insurance claims. Here are some of the most common types of property damage claims our homeowners’ insurance attorneys in Fort Lauderdale see:

Cast iron pipe claims – Fort Lauderdale’s older homes often feature cast iron plumbing. Over time, these pipes can deteriorate, leading to potential home damage. Homeowners with these older pipes should be vigilant and consider necessary upgrades.
Fire damage claims – Fires can arise from various causes, from electrical issues to natural disasters. Immediate reporting and documentation can expedite the claims process and aid in recovery.
Flood damage claims – Flooding poses a significant threat, especially when considering recent incidents like the historic floods caused by Hurricane Ian. The devastation led many residents of Fort Lauderdale to suffer immense losses. Homeowners are urged to consider adding flood coverage if they haven’t already.
Hail damage claims – While not as common as hurricanes, hailstorms can inflict significant damage, especially to roofs, vehicles, and outdoor structures. Quick assessments post-hail events can aid in a smoother claims process.
Hurricane damage claims – Fort Lauderdale’s coastal location makes it susceptible to the wrath of hurricanes. As a recent update, NOAA forecasters are predicting an “above normal” likelihood of heightened hurricane activity in the approaching months. Homeowners are advised to review their policies and ensure they are adequately covered for such events.
Mold damage claims – Mold growth, often a consequence of unchecked water damage, can undermine the structure of a home and pose health risks. Immediate remediation is crucial to minimize the mold’s impact.
Roof damage and roof leak claims – A compromised roof can lead to a range of issues, from water damage to mold. Regular roof inspections can preempt significant problems.
Water damage claims – This is one of the most frequent claims. Factors like leaking pipes, appliance malfunctions, or rainwater seepage can lead to extensive water damage, emphasizing the importance of periodic home maintenance.

How the Insurance Companies Take Advantage of Florida Policyholders

In the beautiful landscapes of Fort Lauderdale, homeowners expect their insurance companies to be there for them when things go wrong. Regrettably, some insurance companies use deceptive tactics that can harm policyholders. Here’s a rundown of the most common approaches our Fort Lauderdale homeowners’ insurance lawyers see and how homeowners can respond:

Delays in Processing or Paying Claims

When it comes to repairing a damaged home, time is of the essence, but some insurers purposefully delay the claim process. This delay can cause undue stress and financial strain on the policyholder.

Combatting the Delays with a Lawyer’s Assistance

Fort Lauderdale homeowners don’t have to face these delays alone. Engaging a homeowners’ insurance attorney in Fort Lauderdale can be instrumental in expediting the process. These attorneys are familiar with the insurance environment and can effectively communicate with the insurer to speed up the claim’s progression. The legal framework in Florida, combined with the terms in many insurance contracts, ensures that homeowners get treated fairly and that their claims get resolved in a timely manner.

Low Settlement Offers

Receiving a settlement offer that falls short of the true extent of the damage can be discouraging. Some insurance companies may make these “lowball” offers in the hope that uninformed homeowners will accept them.

Leveraging a Lawyer to Navigate Low Offers

Before accepting any settlement, homeowners should consider consulting with a knowledgeable homeowners’ insurance attorney in Fort Lauderdale. These experts can provide an unbiased assessment of the damage in relation to the suggested settlement. If the offer isn’t satisfactory, the attorney can communicate with the insurance company directly, advocating for a fair payout that accurately reflects the incurred damages.

When Do I Hire a Lawyer For a Homeowners' Insurance Claim?

Many Fort Lauderdale, FL, residents are unsure when to hire a lawyer for a homeowners’ insurance claim. If you are in the process of making a claim or have already made a claim and it has been denied, you may wonder if you need legal representation. Denial of coverage is one of the most common reasons why people seek out the help of a lawyer. If your insurance company has denied your claim,

Schilling & Silvers PLLC can review your policy and help you understand your coverage. We can also negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company if you have already suffered a loss, such as damage to your home or personal belongings.

Understanding the intricate rules of a homeowners’ insurance claim can be difficult. While some claims are straightforward, others may require the assistance of a Fort Lauderdale homeowners’ insurance lawyer. So, aside from when it has been denied, when should you consult a lawyer about your claim?

Complex or high-value claims – A lawyer can be extremely helpful if you are facing a significant or complex lawsuit. They can assist in ensuring that all damages get accounted for and negotiate the best possible settlement. Their experience frequently leads to larger payments than homeowners could achieve on their own.
Delays in claim payouts – Continuous delays in getting your claim can be aggravating as well as legally questionable. Each state has its own set of rules that insurance companies must follow when processing claims. A lawyer can address this breach if your claim lasts beyond the legally permitted time limit.
Initial consultation and policy review – Before making any decisions, speak with a lawyer about your claim. Many offer free or low-cost initial consultations to review your policy, break down complex terminology, and provide guidance. This initial conversation can provide you with the information you need to decide whether you’ll continue negotiations on your own or with the help of a Fort Lauderdale homeowners’ insurance lawyer.
Unclear fault or unfair settlement offers – Homeowners may face difficulties when figuring out responsibility or when the insurance company’s payment seems low. An attorney will provide clarity, strengthen your position, and help you get a fair settlement.

Remember, involving a lawyer doesn’t necessarily mean you’re heading to court. Often, their role is to simplify the process, ensure you protect your rights, and help you get the settlement you deserve.

No matter what property damage you have suffered, our Fort Lauderdale homeowners insurance lawyers can help you get the compensation you need to repair or replace your property.

Denied or Rejected Claims

Reasons Why Your Insurance Claim May Have Been Rejected

Your insurer could deny you coverage. Frequently, these denials arise because insurers have incorrectly applied policy exclusions. This exclusion is standard unless the damage existed or resulted from neglect or inadequate repair, and the damages were not caused in the absence of the claimant. Therefore, you can review the insurance coverage before claiming the damages you have against the insurer for the type of event covered.

For example, suppose you think your insurer has wrongly denied your claim. In that case, it is best to talk to a lawyer about the denial and the possibility of pursuing a lawsuit against the insurer.

How Much is My Homeowners' Insurance Settlement Worth?

Settlement amounts for homeowners’ insurance claims vary greatly depending on the circumstance, amount of damage, and the insurance a particular homeowner had at the time. Below are some examples of cases the Fort Lauderdale homeowners’ insurance attorneys at Schilling & Silvers PLLC have won and the settlement amounts.

$150,000 settlement for lightning damage to house
$162,500 settlement for roof damage to house
$102,500 settlement for hail damage to house
$145,000 settlement for wind damage to commercial building
$160,000 settlement for tropical storm damage to house
$115,000 settlement for hurricane damage to house
$300,000 settlement for hurricane damage to commercial property

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale, known for its boating canals and beautiful beaches, is a must-see destination on Florida’s southeastern coast. However, its picturesque setting does not protect it from the forces of nature. While the city has a tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures all year, it also faces a number of climatic challenges.

Storms, tornadoes, and, most notably, hurricanes are common in Fort Lauderdale’s climate. These natural disasters pose a real risk to properties, highlighting the importance of residents’ preparedness and resiliency. Fortunately, Fort Lauderdale residents have access to a variety of specialized services to help with home repairs and restorations:

Dry-Pro Restoration Services LLC: Specializing in water and mold restoration, Dry-Pro is known for its swift response and quality service. They pride themselves on ensuring properties are dry, safe, and restored to their original state after water-related incidents.
Handyman Extraordinaire: Chris, the “Handyman Extraordinaire,” is known for his meticulous attention to detail and wide range of services. From plumbing to painting, he brings a personal touch to every project.
Mr. Handyman: An established name in home repair, Mr. Handyman provides a gamut of services tailored to the needs of Fort Lauderdale residents. Their professionalism and punctuality have made them a favorite choice for many.
GLK Construction: Offering a comprehensive suite of remodeling services, GLK Construction tackles everything from roofing to room additions. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction sets them apart.

As Fort Lauderdale grapples with natural challenges, it’s reassuring for its residents to know they have reliable resources at their fingertips to restore their homes and peace of mind.

Experienced Homeowners’ Insurance Lawyers in Fort Lauderdale

Understanding the complicated world of Fort Lauderdale homeowners’ insurance claims requires expertise, dedication, and a thorough understanding of local details. Schilling & Silvers has solidified its position as a market leader in this field. Our distinguished law firm has been unwavering in advocating for homeowners and ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve for years. Our Fort Lauderdale homeowners’ insurance attorneys’ deep commitment can be seen not only in our in-depth understanding of homeowners’ insurance challenges but also in the personalized attention we give to each case.

Schilling & Silvers understand that each claim is unique, and we approach each situation with tailored strategies and fierce determination. Our impressive track record, as well as the testimonials from many satisfied clients, speak to our unrivaled expertise and dedication in the field of homeowners’ insurance claims. Choosing Schilling & Silvers means picking experience, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to your cause.

In addition to Fort Lauderdale, our legal team also serves Pompano Beach, Miami, Weston, Plantation, Hialeah, Sunrise, Davie, Fort Myers, and more.

Fort Lauderdale Homeowners’ Insurance Attorneys