Hurricanes can destroy buildings, businesses, and personal property. Daytona citizens are faced with the daunting task of reconstructing. If you have been affected by this disaster, then filing an insurance claim is the easiest step out of the disaster that has occurred. This article will help you walk through this process with ease as it breaks down the steps that need to be taken and the resources available for you.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Once it’s safe to return to your home after a hurricane, assess the damage closely. Take clear photographs and videos of the interior and exterior of the house and of damaged possessions. Documentation is key for showing evidence when submitting an insurance claim.
Only do minor repairs, and avoid making significant replacements until your adjuster comes to inspect the damage. It is fine to make temporary repairs to avoid further damage, but always keep all receipts for possible reimbursement.
Step 2: Check Your Policy
Before you file a claim, check what’s in it and its limitations from your policy. Some key things you need to look out for are:
- The deductible you must reach before the insurance begins.
- Wind and water damage coverage (both are common in hurricanes).
- ALE covers expenses for temporary housing if you need to live elsewhere while repairs are made.
If you have questions about your policy, contact your insurer for an explanation.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Most companies offer multiple ways to report a claim, including online portals, mobile apps, or customer service hotlines. Be prepared to provide:
- Number on your policy.
- Date and time damage occurred.
- Description of the damages
Useful Resource: Go to FEMA’s Hurricane Preparedness Page for more information about preparing for and recovering from storms.
Step 4: Cooperate with an Insurance Adjuster
You would be visited by an adjuster from your insurance company who would come to inspect your damages and evaluate your claim. When the adjuster is visiting:
- Carry all accompanying papers, photographs, videos, and receipts.
- Be prepared to name all those areas that require attention.
If you think the adjuster is lowballing your damage, get a second opinion or consider hiring a public adjuster who is on your side.
Step 5: Avoid Common Claim Pitfalls
Many hurricane claims are denied due to avoidable errors. Do not let yours end like that by following these tips:
- File your claim as quickly as possible to meet your policy deadline.
- Submit all necessary and accurate documentation.
- Keep communication professional, in writing whenever possible.
To learn more about common reasons why claims get denied and how you can avoid them, visit FloridaDisaster.org.
Step 6: Use Local Daytona Resources
The city of Daytona has several resources for hurricane victims, including temporary housing and financial help:
American Red Cross Volusia County Chapter
- 341 White St, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
- (386) 226-1400
- redcross.org
Daytona Beach Disaster Recovery Center
- 1-800-621-3362 (FEMA Helpline)
- disasterassistance.gov
Helpful Resource: For legal and housing assistance, visit 211.org and search for local services in your area.
How Consumer Help Group Can Assist You
Navigating the hurricane insurance claims process is overwhelming, even when there is significant damage or pushback from your insurance company. Consumer Help Group is here to help.
Our lawyers who have experience are working with property owners in Daytona to help them file claims, dispute denied claims, and make sure that you receive what is owed to you. We ensure that you will be guided through a personal process one-on-one so that you’ll fully understand what is happening to you.
Get in touch with us today for a free consultation and let’s rebuild from that storm. Call the Consumer Help Group for more information.
Filing a hurricane insurance claim needn’t be so scary. Approach it the right way, get the right resources, and take advantage of professional guidance, and you shall manage to get the compensation necessary to recover and move on. Hold it together, Daytona-we are here to help!
