Hurricane Ian left a path of death and destruction in its wake in September 2022, causing $40 billion in property damage or more. If your home or property suffered damage in the hurricane, you have an uphill insurance battle ahead of you. Hundreds of thousands of people will file insurance claims for property damage, and insurance companies will not make the process easy.

The following are some tips for handling your insurance claim for hurricane damage. To discuss your situation, speak with an insurance claims attorney directly.

First, document all of your property damage thoroughly and with photos. If you need emergency repairs for safety purposes, keep all receipts and work orders. Do what you can to avoid further damage from happening.

File your claim as soon as possible to start the process. However, be patient after you file. Your insurance company might not respond right away, as it is dealing with thousands of similar claims all at once. If your damage is not life-threatening, wait for the response before you begin harassing your insurer or hiring a public adjuster.

Finally, it can be in your interest to discuss your situation with a property damage claims attorney. A lawyer can ensure that you document everything completely and know the value of your claim. They can communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf to negotiate for a full settlement.

One thing to keep in mind is to be aware of possible scams. For example, some repair companies might offer “insurance consulting” for an additional cost. Do not seek advice from anyone who is not an insurance claims lawyer.

A Florida Hurricane Claim Attorney Can Help

Diane Zimmerman Law is helping homeowners and property owners who suffered damage in hurricanes. Contact us to discuss your situation and how we might help with your insurance claim.