It is imperative to be prepared for Hurricane Ian, even while we still do not know where or how strong it will hit Florida. Stock up on food and water and have a plan for shelter and communication setup. It is also important to be prepared for the aftermath of any strong storm like a hurricane.
When Hurricane Ian inevitably hits West Florida, your home and other property may sustain damage from the storm’s effects. To be best prepared for an insurance claim with your homeowner’s insurance carrier for the storm’s damages to your home, take these best practices now:
- Be safe. Gather the necessary supplies to keep your family and loved ones safe. Listen to local authorities if they tell you that you need to evacuate. If they do, listen to them!
- Take photographs of your home before the storm hits, both inside and out. Make sure you include your personal items as well. This is important so your insurance company cannot say that you made a fraudulent claim.
- Board up your home and take all steps necessary to limit the amount of loss you sustain. Place sandbags around entrances to your home if you live in a flood zone. Secure items that may be swept up in the wind and become flying missiles. Also, take photos of the steps you take as well!
- Obtain a copy of your insurance policy. This will be helpful when making a claim as soon as the storm rolls over. Be sure to review it too!
- Notify your insurance company as soon you notice damage, and not a day later! If you don’t do this, your homeowner’s insurance company may attempt to fight your claim and be more successful in doing so. Again, capture photographs of all damage.
- When speaking to your insurance company, document. Make sure to write down who you are speaking to, their name, and their claim number. Write down just about everything else that is said, too.
- Hire a licensed contractor. When it comes down to repairs, a licensed contractor will not be afraid to show you that they are bonded and insured. Make them show you proof. Get a second estimate before moving forward on repairs, too, and communicate these steps with your insurance company.
- Keep all damaged personal property and do not throw it away until you have settled with your insurance company.
- Make sure you have separate insurance policies. Flood insurance can be separate from a standard homeowners insurance policy. Vehicle insurance is typically separate from owners insurance policies. Make sure you have all purchased and you take policies with you if you evacuate.
- GO TO HALE©. Many times, unfortunately, homeowners insurance companies deny claims even when they know they should pay. If your insurance company denies your claim, and you need legal representation and advocates on your side, call the attorneys at Hale Law Visit our website for more: https://www.hurricanedisasterclaim.com